Leamington Race Date Reduction Sparks Fears for Small Tracks' Survival
The Lakeshore Horse Racing Association has issued a stark warning that the loss of a single racing date at Leamington Raceway in 2026 could trigger a domino effect, potentially leading to further reductions and the eventual closure of smaller raceways across Ontario. This development comes as the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) approved only 12 race dates for Leamington this year, down from 13 in the previous year.
Impact on Horse Owners and Local Economy
Tom Bain, a representative of the Lakeshore association, expressed deep concern about the implications of this reduction. "It's going to have a real impact because we try to attract a high-class level of horses, and when your days are cut back, you don't have that appeal to bring in as many horses," Bain stated. He emphasized that Leamington Raceway had been very successful in the past, consistently filling all race fields and experiencing growth in both betting and attendance over the last five years.
The raceway had actually hoped for an increase in dates this year, building on last year's success in drawing fans and horses. "When you're trying to build the industry and help the economy, to lose one day of racing is not good," Bain added, noting that while purses are being increased, this does not compensate for the lost race day.
Broader Cuts Across Smaller Tracks
This issue is not isolated to Leamington. Bain revealed that race dates have been cut at all smaller tracks, often referred to as B tracks. "Clinton, Dresden, Hanover—all got cut a day, and some of the larger ones got cut more than that. Sarnia got cut two days," he explained. There is a growing fear that through gradual reductions—Leamington had 14 dates several years ago—some raceways may close entirely to consolidate racing at larger venues.
"My big fear is it's not going to be cutting race dates. They're going to close actual small tracks," Bain said, highlighting the precarious situation facing these community hubs.
Challenges for Horse Owners and Industry Sustainability
Cutting race dates makes it increasingly difficult for horse owners to sustain their operations. Local owners typically race their horses year-round, traveling between tracks in Dresden, London, Leamington, and Sarnia in Southwestern Ontario. "You've got to ship all over the place. The costs are going way up... Some of these guys have already said, 'Hey, not worth it. I can't make a dollar,'" Bain reported.
Despite these challenges, Leamington and other Southwestern Ontario raceways were able to fill their race cards last year, indicating that a shortage of horses is not a problem in the area. This success underscores the potential negative impact of date reductions on a thriving local industry.
Regulatory and Financial Context
A spokesman for the AGCO clarified in an email that the commission allocates funds to raceways based on recommendations from Ontario Racing, a non-profit industry association. "AGCO reviews and approves race dates to ensure they meet regulatory requirements," he said. Attempts to contact Ontario Racing for comment were unsuccessful at press time.
The horse racing industry in Ontario is subsidized by the provincial government, with the 15 tracks receiving close to $120 million annually. Bain stressed that this money supports numerous jobs, including trainers, drivers, grooms, blacksmiths, and local farmers who supply hay and feed. "This funding is crucial for maintaining the economic vitality of these communities," he noted.
Leamington's racing season is set to begin on August 9, with race dates held most Sundays until September 27. The association remains hopeful but cautious about the future, urging stakeholders to consider the broader implications of date reductions on the sustainability of small tracks and the livelihoods they support.
