Following the release of the Director’s Decision on December 10, 2010, the Ontario Racing Commission is moving to the implementation stage of the 2011 Ontario Racing
Program.
The Ontario Racing Program is a provincial approach to racing that was developed during extensive collaboration and consultation with the racing community over the past 12 months. It represents a commitment to live racing, and introduces measures of accountability for those involved in the industry. In many ways, the program returns racing to its historical roots and should result in improved racing opportunities. The goal is that ultimately horse people will be able to race their horses under more fair and competitive race conditions.
While planning and consultation with industry representatives continues, the ORC Administration is proceeding with the task of defining and detailing the various technical elements of the framework. Some of the technical elements of the Ontario Racing Program that are planned for 2011 include:
- Purse management
- Standardized qualifying times
- Giving preference to Canadian horses
Other key elements of the approach to racing relate to condition sheets and are intended to result in more competitive conditions as well as appeal to the wagering customer. These elements include:
- Eligibility based on money earned, not wins
- Conditions based on last three starts
- Standardized allowances
- Simplification of “also eligible” conditions
In order to receive more input and develop specific details of the condition-related elements, the ORC will be holding a meeting with Race Secretaries in early January.
As noted in the Director’s Decision, 2011 will be a transition year for horse racing in Ontario. Other modifications and enhancements to racing will be introduced on a phased-in basis. This will give people in racing ample time to adjust and take advantage of these improvements.
The ORC continues to be committed to the process of consultation and collaboration with the racing industry. Ongoing, regular communication will ensure the process remains transparent and open to the public.
In order to provide an overview of key elements of the 2011 Racing Program, the ORC has released a Question & Answer document. It provides answers to some of the most common questions posed by horse people to date. Copies will be posted in race offices. Click here to view the poster.
(ORC)
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