As part of its continued commitment to protect Ontario racehorses and strengthen the
integrity of racing, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has introduced changes to the Rules of Racing to promote the welfare of equine athletes.
The changes came into effect on June 5, 2023.
The changes are the result of extensive AGCO consultation with industry stakeholders, including horsepersons’ associations, licensed and official veterinarians, and racetrack management to seek input on these welfare initiatives.
As a follow-up to our notice on June 5, 2023, we would like to provide the following update regarding implementation of the changes:
- The initial transition period, and the extension granted to July 4, 2023, will be extended until August 8, 2023. During this time the AGCO will limit testing and enforcement related to TB 15.40.01 and SB 6.54.01 to horses requiring a workout or qualifier to come off the Veterinarian’s List as per rules TB 15.40.02 and SB 6.54.02.
- The AGCO will conduct additional engagement and provide further communication to ensure greater clarity regarding these new rules. Licensees are reminded that all rules of the Out of Competition Program, Chapter 39 of the Thoroughbred Rules of Racing and Chapter 37 of the Standardbred Rules of Racing, still apply and the AGCO can conduct out of competition testing at any time.
As previously stated, we remain committed to monitoring the implementation of the changes to the Rules of Racing and carefully considering any feedback and observations from industry participants.