Picture: Hastings Racecourse
Ending an period that started in 1892, Hastings Racecourse On Friday, it was introduced that Thoroughbred racing can be canceled instantly.
The choice follows the British Columbia authorities’s announcement that the horse racing trade will lose its share of slot machine income beginning January 31, 2026. The funding, which has supplied about $9 million a 12 months lately, stems from a 2008 settlement during which slots had been added to Hastings to compensate for a decline in wagering handles. The state evaluate cited the trade’s unsustainable funds and the federal government’s lack of ability to supply additional help amid fiscal pressures.
Traditionally, thoroughbred racing was held from April to October. There are at the moment no horses stabled at Hastings.
“This was a really troublesome determination, particularly given Hastings Racecourse’s historic legacy in the local people and its significance to the province’s horse racing trade,” stated Wayne Odegaard, regional vice chairman of Nice Canadian Leisure. “Sadly, that is strictly a enterprise determination based mostly on a scarcity of economic feasibility to proceed with horse racing at Hastings for one more season. We’re extraordinarily grateful to our devoted workforce members, race individuals and fan base for his or her help and sponsorship through the years.”
This determination doesn’t have an effect on the operation of the on line casino and simulcast racebook on the property.
“Our focus going ahead is to help affected workforce members by way of this transition and to help racers as they contemplate their choices for thoroughbred racing on this state sooner or later,” Odegard stated.
Rumors concerning the finish of racing at Hastings have been circulating for years, with some speculating that the location might be redeveloped for a brand new stadium for the Vancouver Whitecaps Main League Soccer workforce.
