Live harness racing is expected to make its return to Rideau Carleton Raceway this June 7th. And even though spectators will not be physically present in the stands, horseracing enthusiasts will be able to follow all of the live racing action from the comfort and safety of their own homes. All seasonal events will for the time being be live streamed and available for viewing online. But not only that, because fans will also be in a position to bet on their race-favourites, enhancing the experience even more.
Rideau Carleton Raceway director Andy Wright made the re-start of season official by way of the announcement. Wright reminded fans that whilst horseracing will to some extent resume, the same will unfortunately not apply to gaming at the Hard Rock Ottawa Casino. All casinos will for the moment remain closed as part of the staggered reopening of the local economy.
Ontario’s horse racing industry will now at long last tap into the benefits of a re-opening of business it so desperately needs. The province is now entering the first phase of its reopening plan and the industry has said that it welcomes local government’s decision that horseracing be permitted to resume already during the first phase.
The fact that live racing action is to resume on June 7 aside, strict health and safety protocols are to be followed by horse people involved in the actual organisation of the races, on-site care of the horses, maintenance of equipment, general race-day logistics, etc. Canadian public health agencies have provided detailed safety policies to be followed closely so as to ensure that workers and support staff are protected.
No Change To Race Timetable
According to Wright, live races at Rideau Carleton Raceway will, save for spectators not being present in person, follow the same exact weekly format as before. Live races will be run on Thursdays and Sundays, at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. respectively.
All live races will be broadcast by HorsePlayerInteractive TV, and even though fans will not yet be permitted to enjoy live horseracing in person track-side, many have expressed their joy and happiness at once again being able to connect with their favourite sport and all the world of wagering on sports has to offer.
Rideau Carleton Raceway Casino will hopefully be up and running again in no time too. The casino is a major contributor to the financial support offered to the local community by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation each year.
By Ben Hamill