The horse racing field of Ontario has recently been shaken by a decision that has the capacity to reshape and alter the very influence it has on younger impressionable minds. Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is ready to implement an age restriction at Flamboro Downs that would reshape the local field on September 3 and make it impossible for kids younger than 19 to watch live racing at the grandstand. The Central Ontario Standardbred Association readies to oppose the decision.
For many people live racing events and the thrill of watching the horses race for the big win is a beloved image from their early childhood. People that have grown up in the vicinity of a racetrack would remember every detail of a racing day when their parents would take them to the racecourse and make a day out of it. Spending it all in the sun, purchasing refreshing drinks and food while hoping their favorite would win is a memorable sensation.
September 3 Brings Changes
Flamboro Downs in Hamilton has been one of those special locations for many locals and people hailing from neighboring communities. Children under the age of 19 have been allowed to enter the grandstand and enjoy live harness horse racing with their parents and friends, but its integrity would soon be jeopardized via a single decision.
Great Canadian Gaming made it clear that the grandstand would no longer welcome children under the age of 19. The announcement came mid-August and managed to trigger a resounding response across the community. Locals chimed in with comments making it clear that kids should spend more time outside, a thing the racetrack was able to offer.
Up until now, live racing has been regarded as a family activity uniting loved ones. Many locals expressed their disappointment with the decision, as exposing kids to live racing at an early age could drive them towards entering the horse racing field once they are ready for it. This is how many of the local horse people have started their careers.
Gaming Expansion Results in New Policy
The Central Ontario Standardbred Association also expressed its disappointment with the decision, stating that this is a concerning shift of focus at Flamboro Downs. Great Canadian Gaming invested in a gaming expansion, welcoming casino operation licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. This resulted in some 100 individuals hired as casino staff.
In order to prevent problem gambling rates from surging, the entire racetrack would now be a 19+ area. September 3 would bring the controversial change, but COSA refuses to let things slide, as locals have a voice and a position they could defend. They are encouraged to do so by contacting Donna Skelly, MPP for the Flamboro area. By expressing their position and addressing the issue, the community could make a change.
In the meantime, John Hayes, Chair of Ontario Racing and Bill O’Donnell, President of Central Ontario Standardbred Association, are scheduled to meet with Chad Gates, General Manager, Ontario Racing Operations with Great Canadian Gaming.
It is about to take place on September 6 and shed more light onto future operation on site and the way all parties involved could be content with from here on out. Great Canadian Gaming said in its announcement that the tarmac would continue being an area welcoming people of all ages.
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