On Monday, July 6, the Ontario Racing Commission released its Notice of Decision in regard to an application for purse monies for three upcoming Racing Under Saddle races.

The races in question are upcoming dashes scheduled for Georgian Downs (on July 18), Mohawk Racetrack (September 26) and Flamboro Downs (October 31).

On May 20, 2015 an application for financial support – specifically purse support for three select races – was submitted by Racing Under Saddle (RUS). Letters in support of RUS’ application were sent by COSA and OHHA on April 29, 2015 and May 7, 2015, respectively.

Following consideration of the application, the director of the Ontario Racing Commission approved the following: A purse allocation of $24,100 in total is approved for the increasing of purses on three select races: $1,800 for July 18, 2015 at Georgian Downs for the Mid-Summer RUS Race, $15,000 for September 26, 2015 for the Mohawk International RUS Race, and $7,300 for October 31, 2015 at Flamboro Downs for the Year-End Finale RUS Race.

The approval is conditional upon the following:

1. The funds can only be used to pay purses on races where pari-mutuel wagering is taking place;

2. The races being offered cannot include claiming races;

3. RUS must report to the ORC on the final races and purses provided within 30 days of the approved race date;

As a condition of receiving the purse money, RUS is required to demonstrate how they promoted their races in a report describing its efforts and outcomes. The report should be provided to the ORC within 60 days of their final race. Such report will form a consideration by the director, in considering purse monies for future years.

In accordance with the Rule 7.16.05(d) of the Rules of Standardbred Racing, the ORC Administration is instructed under an Order from the Director to release purse funds held In Trust for the Standardbred Horse People.

Be advised that this decision applies only to 2015 and, if necessary, an application for purse funds will require a similar submission for any future year.

Please be advised that any aggrieved party has the right to appeal the Director’s decision to the Commission.

To view a copy of the Notice of Decision, click here.

(With files from the ORC)