To support Ontario Racing’s responsibilities for the management and administration of the Horse Improvement Program (HIP), Ontario Racing (OR) is undertaking a comprehensive HIP review. OR has engaged two firms to work jointly on the HIP review – Economic Research Ltd. (ERL) and Strategic Equine Inc.

A key part of the review is the Economic Survey which will measure full-time equivalent jobs, gross domestic product (GDP) and tax revenues generated. The survey will be sent to horse racing industry participants on a random-sample basis.

Five survey respondents will have an opportunity to win one of five prizes:

1) One free Equine Guelph course in Equine Sciences, Business Management or Equine Welfare, valued at over $500
2) Dining Certificate at Mohawk Racetrack, valued at $200
3) Dining Certificate at Woodbine Racetrack, valued at $200
4) Gift Certificate at Greenhawk Equestrian Sport, valued at $200
5) Gift Certificate at Systems Fencing Ltd., valued at $200

The survey will be distributed by: Standardbred Canada for Standardbred people; Woodbine, Fort Erie and CTHS for Thoroughbred; and, by ERL for Quarter Horse people. We strongly encourage all survey recipients to participate and respond to the survey to ensure the most accurate measurement possible.

In addition to the random survey process, there will be an opportunity provided after the randomly-selected results are in for all Members to submit a survey response.

OR will utilize the findings of the independent HIP Review to help support and guide a broad HIP consultation, which will be conducted over the second half of 2017-18. The consultation will provide an opportunity for all stakeholders to provide input and advice on the direction of HIP and will help guide any HIP changes.

The randomly-selected surveys will be released beginning July 16. Please look for the survey invitations in your email or mail and respond at your earliest convenience.

(with files from Ontario Racing)