At its meeting on March 23, 2011, the board of the Ontario Racing Commission made changes to the Rules of Racing with respect to the minimum number of racing officials (judges or stewards) required to officiate horse races
in Ontario. Effective April 1, 2011, there shall be a minimum of two ORC racing officials to carry out all the duties and responsibilities specified in the rules.
The rule change was made to allow for two-person stands where needed. While the change applies to all breeds, the ORC will only be initiating a program to implement two-person racing official stands for some standardbred race cards within the Ontario Racing Program.
The program, which is being implemented and will be monitored in 2011, introduced harmonized racing schedules and a classification of racing cards – Grassroots, Signature and Premier. These improvements are designed to renew customer interest and stabilize the racing industry. The Ontario Racing Program also offers an opportunity to review how the needs of racing can be efficiently served.
The two-official stands will preside primarily over Grassroots racing cards, as well as Kawartha Downs. Three officials will continue to be assigned for all other racing cards.
As noted in the chair’s ORC budget announcement of March 30, 2011, the ORC has made considerable efforts to maintain regulatory costs and operate in a fiscally responsible manner while continuing to fulfill its mandate and provide quality services to the horse racing sector. An examination of core services for better and more efficient means of delivery is part of this initiative.
The following directives were issued and should be referenced:
• Standardbred Directive Number 3 – 2011
• Thoroughbred Directive Number 3 – 2011
(ORC)