The following message was penned by Sue Leslie, Chair of Ontario Racing and sent as a release on Friday (Dec. 30).

As we welcome the New Year, we have cause to reflect on the year that has passed. 2016 was marked by significant milestones for the horse racing industry in this province. We have been given good reason to be hopeful about a long term, sustainable future for horse racing in Ontario: the government has proposed an unprecedented long term investment in our business and there is growth in wagering for the Standardbred Alliance. As an industry, our efforts to right the ship are showing promise for success into the future.

Ontario Racing conducted consultations across the province about what that future could look like, and on behalf of our directors and staff, I would like to thank everyone who took the time to participate. While challenging at times, the passion of our industry participants was reflected as a shared commitment to finding the right path forward.

As an organization, Ontario Racing is committed to working with government and the OLG to represent the needs of our industry with vigor in 2017. As we continue to advance our governance structure, Ontario Racing emphasizes the importance of unity and support from the industry as we negotiate and secure a new long term funding framework.

There are challenges but also great opportunities facing us in 2017. I encourage everyone to be positive, stay invested in our industry and do your part to move forward collectively on the issues that will surely shape our industry’s future. Together we will continue to rebuild and grow.

Warmest wishes for a prosperous new year,

Sue Leslie
Chair - Ontario Racing

(with files from Ontario Racing)