“It's tough for me to see these people I've known for so long not knowing what tomorrow will bring.”
With the announcement on Thursday that the Ontario Racing Commission received notice from Kawartha Downs to cancel its racing licence effective March 31, 2013, the final nail has seemingly been placed in the coffin of the Peterborough area racetrack. On Saturday night, Kawartha Downs will reportedly host its final card of harness racing.
The finality of Saturday's card is not really surprising to longtime area horseman Doug Hie, who told the Peterborough Examiner he figured the writing was on the wall for Kawartha Downs.
“When the government announced last year what they were doing I figured we were done,” Hie told The Examiner. “Especially when the transition panel came out with their findings and they said it would basically only be the not-for-profit tracks that stay open.”
While some people have been outspoken and pointing the finger at track owner Harvey "Skip" Ambrose for not coming to terms with the OMAFRA transition panel, Hie understands the owner's position.
“Nobody in private business is going to operate and not make a profit, that just doesn't make any sense, continued Hie. "Any track that is privately owned I can understand where they're coming from because they've been offered a terrible deal. The not-for-profit tracks were also offered a terrible deal but they don't have much choice.”
Jim Huck, former race secretary at Kawartha Downs, told The Examiner that the track will offer free programs on Saturday night and track employees will be doing their best to make sure customers have a fun and memorable experience for the track's swan song.
“We're going to recognize the customers,” said Huck, who noted there will be a special tribute after the second race. “I've organized for the horsemen to bring in memorabilia, a lot of pictures, old suits, to give people a nostalgic look at when it started. We want to show people gratitude for all their support. "
To view entries for Saturday night's card of harness racing at Kawartha Downs, click the following link: Saturday Entries - Kawartha Downs.
The Ontario Government ought
The Ontario Government ought to be ashamed of itself, especially the finance minister.
I was at Kawartha Downs the
I was at Kawartha Downs the first day it opened and will be there for the last.
Had a lot of good times there and will miss it.
It has always been a part of my life.
Good Bye K.D.