Horse Racing Alberta (HRA) is welcoming new ownership of Alberta’s two “A” circuit racetracks and looking forward to a new chapter for the province’s horse racing industry, stated the organization on Wednesday, Sept. 30.
Century Casinos announced on Monday, Sept. 28 that Alberta's Century Downs and Century Mile were sold to Highfield Investment Group.
“We are excited to welcome Highfield Investment Group and a new chapter for these two important Alberta 'A' circuit racetracks,” said Kent Verlik, CEO of Horse Racing Alberta. “While the names of the facilities may change, their importance to Alberta’s horse racing industry remains the same. We look forward to working closely with the new owners, supporting their vision and welcoming them as an important part of our horse racing community.
“We also want to recognize Century Casinos for the important role they have played in Alberta racing. Their investment, commitment and support have helped build these racetracks and contributed to the growth of horse racing in our province. We thank them for their partnership and wish them well as we look ahead to this next chapter.”
Horse Racing Alberta stated that the ownership transition also provides an opportunity to recognize the significant role Century Casinos has played in the modern history of Alberta horse racing.
“This is an exciting time for Alberta horse racing, and we are looking forward to welcoming the new owners and working with them as these two racetracks begin a new chapter under new names,” said The Honourable Diana McQueen, Board Chair, Horse Racing Alberta. “Racetracks are more than facilities. They are home to the horses, horsemen and women, breeders, owners, trainers, jockeys and many others who make our industry possible.
“On behalf of the Horse Racing Alberta Board of Directors and staff, I would also like to thank Century Casinos for its years of partnership and support. When Northlands Park closed, there was significant uncertainty about the future of live horse racing in Alberta. Century Casinos stepped forward with the investment and commitment to build new racetracks, giving our industry the opportunity to continue racing and establishing a new foundation for the future.”
Alberta horse racing is an important contributor to the province’s economy, agriculture and communities. In 2025, the Alberta horse racing industry was estimated to contribute approximately $124 million annually to Alberta’s economy through GDP and support nearly 1,900 jobs across the province. When the direct, indirect and induced impacts of horse racing are considered, the industry generates approximately $264 million in economic activity annually, including more than $72 million in wages and salaries for Albertans.
The industry supports a broad network of people and businesses, including breeders, owners, trainers, jockeys, grooms, veterinarians, farriers, feed suppliers, agricultural producers, rural businesses, racetrack employees and many other equine and business services.
Its impact extends well beyond race days, with racing activity supporting agricultural operations and businesses throughout Alberta and contributing to the economic vitality of communities across the province.
Horse Racing Alberta noted that recent results from the 2026 Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (CTHS) - Alberta Thoroughbred Sale provide another encouraging indication of the investment and confidence within Alberta’s racing and breeding industry. The Sept. 23 CTHS Alberta sale in Red Deer included 74 yearlings selling for $1,119,200, with gross sales increasing almost 10 per cent over 2025. The sale was led by an Alberta-bred filly by the stallion Olympiad out of the Violence mare Buy Me A Rose, who sold for $110,000 to Newtown Anner Stud Farm of Kentucky. Significantly for Alberta racing, the filly will remain in the province to race.
“We’re hearing good things about what’s happening with racing here in Alberta and really loved our experience with Playful last year, so we thought we’d buy a filly and be part of an exciting new future in Alberta,” said Hanzly Albina, General Manager of Newtown Anner Stud Farm, following the sale.
Horse Racing Alberta stated that the Thoroughbred sale results also highlighted the strength and potential of Alberta’s breeding program, with first-crop yearlings by Alberta-based stallions Fight On and Tap Master attracting buyers, while yearlings by established Alberta stallions also generated strong interest.
Horse Racing Alberta stated that the continued investment in Alberta-bred horses and the broader economic contribution of horse racing demonstrate the strength of the industry that Highfield Investment Group is joining.
“We are grateful for the important role Century Casinos has played in the story of horse racing in Alberta and for the commitment and support they have provided over the years," said Verlik. "We look forward with enthusiasm to building a strong relationship with the new ownership and to seeing what this next chapter brings for Alberta horse racing. We know our fans and bettors are passionate about this industry, and we believe they will be excited to welcome Highfield Investment Group and see the new energy and opportunities they bring to our racing community."
(With files from Horse Racing Alberta)