Memo to Members – 2021 Racing Season

April 9, 2021

Good Morning Members,

While we continue to endure the unknown of this ongoing pandemic, I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank each of you for your continued support, patience, and resilience as we figure out our industry’s next steps.

That being said, this communication has been particularly difficult to write. The COVID-19 pandemic, along with its numerous variants have taken a toll on our industry.

Yesterday, the HBPA wrote yet another letter to Government officials requesting a meeting to discuss the re-opening of racing. We can only assure you that we are doing all we can.

We are also encouraging Ontario Racing and other associations to take a stronger and more energized engagement with the Province.

Currently, the HBPA is in discussions with the Ontario Racing Task Force looking at options to try to mitigate owner losses. We will keep you posted.

The best way to assure the earliest possible opening is by make sure we all remain safe, continue to follow ongoing protocols (social distancing, mask wearing and diligent hand washing) and keeping the backstretch safe. We need to be sure we follow all safety measures and ask that only licensed workers handling horses attend the backside.

We will continue to keep you updated as more information becomes available. Until then, please keep healthy and safe.

Regards,

Sue Leslie

President, HBPA of Ontario