In a recent article by the CBC, Tom Bain of the Lakeshore Horse Racing Association has discussed how Standardbred horsepeople in southwestern Ontario will be making adjustments to their normal procedures while racing through the current COVID-19 pandemic.
The article explains that racing is scheduled to be be starting at Sarnia's Hiawatha Horse Park and at Dresden Raceway in early June, while live action is scheduled for Leamington Raceway in August.
Bain has stated that horsepeople will be facing a significant adjustment to the norm when it comes to adhering to social distancing procedures while racing.
"We'll have to follow all the rules that's been set concerning COVID-19," said Bain, who went on to say, "it's certainly going to be a lot different."
Bain has stated that horsepeople are relieved that racing will in fact be taking place at the tracks this year, as there was a great deal of uneasiness among those that make their living off of the industry.
"There were certainly a lot of fears that we may not be racing whatsoever — and certainly, fears that a large number of stables were just going to have to close their doors and go out of business," Bain was quoted as saying.
To read the CBC article in its entirety, click here.
Standardbreds pictured in behind the starting gate at Dresden Raceway.
(With files from the CBC)