There are 15 racetracks operating in the province of Ontario: 12 Standardbred, two Thoroughbred and one Quarter Horse.
The provincial horse racing industry employs anywhere from 30-50,000 individuals [and is home to 7,000-plus horses], who make their living from horse racing, and supplying the industry with goods and services.
Horse racing is a labour-intensive industry.
Horses require thousands of acres of land and many workers to care for, train and groom the animals, in addition to maintaining the farm. Each horse arriving at the track has already required an approximate investment of three to four years of time and resources.
The horse racing and breeding industry, one of the largest sub-sectors of the agricultural economy, has a solid base in the rural agricultural economy, but also augments and diversifies the tourism, entertainment and export economic base in Ontario.
Direct and indirect investment stimulates local economies with demand for products and services in rural Ontario provided by veterinarians, blacksmiths, hay and grain supplies, transportation workers, harness and saddle makers, and many others.
To learn more about the role and responsibilities of Ontario Racing, the voice of the provincial horse racing industry, click here.