On April 1, 2016, legislation came into effect changing the way appeals of horse racing decisions are adjudicated in Ontario. Most importantly, a new adjudicative body -- the Horse Racing Appeal Panel (HRAP) -- is now responsible for hearing appeals of decisions made under the Rules of Racing.

The majority of HRAP appeals will relate to on-track and conduct violations, positive test cases and related decisions made by AGCO Racing Officials including Judges and Stewards. Under the HRAP’s current Rules of Procedure, licensees can request a “stay” temporarily suspending these rulings and decisions until such time that their appeal is heard or such other time as the HRAP may determine. Previously, decisions regarding stays were made by the Deputy Director of Racing under the former Ontario Racing Commission. As of April 1, 2016, however, the authority to grant or deny a stay now resides with the HRAP.

How can you request a stay?

Stays are not automatic. A request must be submitted to the HRAP in order for a stay of a decision or ruling to be considered.

If you want to request that the HRAP temporarily suspend the decision or ruling you are appealing, you must complete and submit Section B of the Notice of Appeal form.

A sample of the form and more information is available here or in the embedded PDF below.