During a press conference today the Provincial government announced a funding plan for horse racing that will provide a stable foundation for our industry to grow for the next twenty years. An increase from the Horse Racing Partnership Plan to $105 million dollars per year, provided some much needed additional funds dedicated to the smaller racetracks in the province.
This could not have been accomplished without the leadership and dedication that Premier Wynne, Minister Sousa and Minister Leal have shown along with a united industry under the Ontario Racing banner. Steven Rigby and his entire team at the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation have been instrumental in developing a program that will ensure that racing can exist for all three breeds across Ontario.
We at the Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario Inc. would also like to express our never ending gratitude to MPP Joe Dickson for his tireless advocacy for our industry. “Joe has always supported quarter horse racing, dating back to his time on town council. Over the last few months, Joe has been instrumental to the governments awareness of the specific needs of the Quarter horse racing industry. Working together we have had countless meetings making sure that the industry receives the required support.” QROOI president Bob Broadstock.
Joe Dickson said “Today, the Ontario government showed their commitment to horse racing in Ontario with a historic long-term investment of $105M a year over 20 years. I have been a lifelong supporter of Quarter Horse Racing in Ajax at Ajax Downs – not only is the industry an economic driver, it is also part of our heritage. It has been an honour working together with relentless advocates like Bob Broadstock, President of Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario Inc, to ensure the sustainability of the industry for years to come and protect over 1,700 horse farmers in the Durham Region. Now, Quarter Horse Racing owners and families can make more confident decisions about their own investments and how to grow their industry. I look forward to the first racing day of the year this May, and for FREE Family Fun Day at the Races on Sunday’s with Ajax residents and their children!” Joe Dickson, MPP Ajax-Pickering
Bob Broadstock
President
QROOI