With no live harness racing scheduled, it was announced this past May that Sandown Park in North Saanich, BC would probably be demolished. According to a report, something has changed
.
A brief article by C-FAX 1070 explains that the owners of the track have agreed on a two-year lease extension, but that it doesn't necessarily mean that there will be any resumption of live racing.
The article quotes 'a spokesman' for the track's racing operator, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, as saying that "nothing has changed" even though the lease has been extended.
The report stated that the GCGC official which was quoted declined to discuss why the company wants to hold onto the property for another two years.
(With files from C-FAX 1070)
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3 Excellent comments on
3 Excellent comments on Great Canadian's renewal of the Sandown lease, in fact Harness BC had been approached by some parties interested in reactivating the operation there. Racing is having a tough enough time without having roadblocks put in our way.
It's my toy and no one else
It's my toy and no one else can play with it. GCGC would rather pay the cost of the lease and know no other gaming company can try to get a lease for the track. They don't want live racing there, and the facility just keeps deteriorating.
26 October 2010 - For the
26 October 2010 - For the good of harness racing in British Columbia (Canada) don't close Sandown Park.
With no live harness racing scheduled, it was announced this past May that Sandown Park in North Saanich, BC would probably be demolished. According to a report, something has changed. Standardbred Canada have reported that a brief article by C-FAX 1070 explains that the owners of the track have agreed on a two-year lease extension, but that it doesn't necessarily mean that there will be any resumption of live racing. The article quotes 'a spokesman' for the track's racing operator, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, as saying that "nothing has changed" even though the lease has been extended.
The report stated that the GCGC official which was quoted declined to discuss why the company wants to hold onto the property for another two years.
Sandown Park is a unique "fair style" venue with the appeal to attract thousands to an annual pilgrimage to the island racetrack. The Old Oak Tree stands proudly in the backstretch and harness racing fans picnic on the lawns, the ladies watched the fashion or shopped at craft and merchandise stalls while the children played on the carnival rides and enjoyed family activities. Sandown is what harness racing is about. Its grass roots harness racing and great social activity for the industry participants and the community.
A few years ago the BC Standardbred Association worked hard to revive the Sandown Summer Race Meet and the results were outstanding, big crowds, great fun and tremendous community support. Save Sandown Park because it is a vital part of standardbred history and racing in British Columbia.
Of course this extension
Of course this extension doesnt mean we can start some racing out there. It's great canadian's way of making sure that no one else can do it either which just goes to show you how great they really are.