On Friday (Dec. 9), the Central Ontario Standardbred Association (COSA) issued the following statement in support of the long-term funding model proposed by Ontario Racing.

After Ontario Racing concluded its first round of in-person industry consultations on the long-term funding model, the Central Ontario Standardbred Association (COSA) wishes to provide its full support of:

• A new racetrack alliance of all Ontario tracks administered and overseen by Woodbine Entertainment Group;

• Long term government funding that give stakeholders confidence in a promising future;

• Ongoing accountability and transparency for all participants benefiting from the government’s funding proposal;

• Industry leadership: racetrack business plans, race dates and purse levels aligned across the province for a coordinated and collaborative approach to distributing live racing.

COSA supports the continued negotiations and advancement of a Letter of Intent. COSA further supports the initiatives being put forward by Ontario Racing, Woodbine Entertainment Group, OLG and the Ontario Government in moving forward on a long-term commitment.

(with files from COSA)