On Wednesday, September 11, the Ontario Racing Commission issued a Notice to the Industry stating that the Director of the ORC has approved the Lakeshore Horse Racing Association for a non-extended meet of four live race dates at Leamington Raceway.

According to the ORC, the approval is conditional upon funding to support track operating expenses. The approval provides for racing on September 22 and 29, and October 6 and 13, 2013. First-race post times will be 1:00 p.m..

The ORC has gone on to state that with fewer than seven days, the meet will be run as a non-extended meet and ‘fair’ racing rules will apply. For example, only one judge will be presiding over racing and a secured paddock will not be required.

Each race date has been approved for 10 races for a total funded purse of $10,000 per day.

To view the full Notice to the Industry, click here.

Additionally, there will be an announcement from the Lakeshore Horse Raceway Wednesday afternoon at the Leamington Fairgrounds at 1:00 p.m.

On Monday, when asked about reports of the approved dates, Leamington Mayor John Paterson told blackburnnews.com: “If it’s true, if it’s actually going to happen, I know I’ll be thrilled, the rest of the members of council will be thrilled,” adding, “We’re just very hopeful that this could add to the tourism industry in our municipality.”