A substantial influx of funding to Ontario's horse racing industry is imminent. Exactly how that funding is allocated and when that funding becomes available remains to be seen.

According to multiple news reports, additional funding to the tune of $35 million per year over five years has been earmarked for the racing industry. Ontario Racing, which has been pivotal in those discussions and negotiations with government, confirmed that additional funding has been secured. However, a spokesperson with Ontario Racing would not confirm those exact numbers yet did not dispute their accuracy.

The board of Ontario Racing crafted an allocation plan that involved all three of the province's breeds — Standardbred, Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse. But Ontario Racing is one of three signatories to the funding deal: those signatories are Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, Ontario Racing and Woodbine Entertainment. All three parties must agree on the deal and how the funding is allocated. That consensus has yet to be reached.

“Ontario Racing is grateful to the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) and the Ontario government for the additional funding and is working with the other signatories to the deal to determine how that funding is allocated. Like all parties, Ontario Racing would like to see that additional funding flow to the Ontario horse racing industry as soon as possible.”

When asked if the additional funding was intended to support purses, breeder awards, and industry programs across all three breeds, the OR spokesperson indicated that intention of that funding is "open to different interpretation by the three signatories."

An announcement will be made publicly should all three signatories agree on the funding distribution.

(Standardbred Canada)