The Central Ontario Standardbred Association has issued a statement in response to Great Canadian Gaming's announcement to implement an age restriction on racegoers at Flamboro Downs, effective Tuesday (Sept. 3).

The statement follows.

COSA is deeply concerned with Great Canadian Gaming’s announcement last week to eliminate children under the age of 19 from entering their grandstand, which has now become all casino under AGCO rules.

It is very disturbing that they have signed a long-term funding agreement that in part was to hold horse racing with the goal of achieving self-sustainability. It is a well known fact that many fans, owners, trainers, drivers, breeders and caretakers who become involved in the industry are exposed to racing at a young age.

By welcoming young people to attend their races and stand outside on the tarmac between September and May isn’t anyone’s version of promoting the business. COSA strongly advises all horsepeople to contact Donna Skelly, MPP for the Flamboro area by email at [email protected] or by calling 905-679-3770 to express your disappointment in Great Canadian Gaming’s decision in this matter.

John Hayes, (Chair, Ontario Racing) and I have a scheduled meeting with Chad Gates, (General Manager, Ontario Racing Operations, Great Canadian Gaming) on Friday (Sept. 6) to discuss their recent announcement.

More information will become available following that meeting.

Bill O’Donnell
President, COSA

(COSA)