A recent report to the industry released by Horse Racing Alberta contains information regarding the anticipated racetrack in Balzac, and that information indicates that plans are moving forward.
The following is an excerpt from the HRA report which touches on the proposed Balzac racetrack.
UHA provided an update on progress on the Cross Iron Track at Balzac. They reported that the land had been sold and a long-term lease (up to 30 years, with an option to buy) with UHA was in place. Final documents are in process to forward to AGLC. Considerable due diligence by AGLC will occur, and we hope for a positive response by the end of the year.
The full contents of the HRA report appear below.
REPORT TO THE INDUSTRY
Over forty representatives from Alberta’s Horse Racing and Breeding Industry met for a dialogue session on Thursday, August 23, 2012, at Northlands Park to discuss some of the issues and challenges facing racing today.
The session was attended by industry members from the following organizations: HRA ASHA, HPBA, ACTRA, AQHRA, Northlands Park, Evergreen Park, Alberta Downs, UHA, CTHS and RMTC.
The session opened with comments from the Honourable Doug Horner, president of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance. Minister Horner, outlined the government's interest in the Alberta horse racing and breeding. The group was very appreciative of Minister Horner’s interest and knowledge in the industry and its contribution to the province.
Each racing venue had an opportunity to provide an update of activities, successes and challenges at their respective tracks. Much discussion was centered around the current horse population and the ability to fill the box at each track. A firm commitment to the horse-racing industry was indicated by every track representative.
UHA provided an update on progress on the Cross Iron Track at Balzac. They reported that the land had been sold and a long-term lease (up to 30 years, with an option to buy) with UHA was in place. Final documents are in process to forward to AGLC. Considerable due diligence by AGLC will occur, and we hope for a positive response by the end of the year.
The horsemen’s associations were then invited to provide comments from their respective breeds. Once again a strong desire and need for a racing venue in southern Alberta was prevalent in all comments. The importance of knowing early when and where each breed would be racing in 2013 was another common theme. The stakeholders continued to voice their concern regarding the ability to sustain purses.
CTHS provided an exciting update on the upcoming Fall Classic. For more information, please contact either CTHS or Northlands Park.
All participants were then invited to participate in an open dialogue where they could raise any areas of interest or concern.
As well, all participants were given the opportunity to provide written comments, and the two comments received were shared with the Board of Directors of Horse Racing Alberta.
From this session the board of HRA will take the feedback and incorporate them into the planning of their upcoming 2013 business plan.