The Ontario Horse Racing Industry Association wants candidates who are running for the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to sign a pledge indicating they will be a ‘Champion of Horse Racing and Breeding’ if elected on June 12, 2014.

“OHRIA has taken this step because we’ve seen the importance of working with MPPs from across Ontario and all parties over the last two years,” said Sue Leslie, President and Chair of OHRIA.

“In February 2012 our industry was threatened with collapse due to a policy decision that likely seemed minor to the individuals making the decision. Through OHRIA, we were able to engage the public and politicians from all three parties and because of that work, we are here today, looking toward the future,” Leslie added.

The champions of horse racing within the industry and inside the Legislature have kept the industry alive despite the cancellation of the Slots at Racetracks Program, but Ontario’s horse racing and breeding industry will continue to need champions of our sector to allow us to continue to thrive and finish the job on gaming integration and renewing a lasting partnership with government.

“Horse racing needs champions in the Ontario Legislature and as an industry we must continue to work together and with these champions to move our industry forward. The lead up to the June 12, 2014 election is a great opportunity for candidates to come forward and pledge to support the industry, so the 60,000 people who work in the horse racing and breeding sector know who to support on Election Day,” said Leslie.

The champions of horse racing pledge is available to download from the OHRIA website and has been emailed to candidates for all major parties in ridings where Ontario’s horse racing and breeding sector has a significant impact. Responses to the pledge will be shared on the OHRIA website prior to the June 12, 2014 election.