Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark says he’s extremely disappointed in Hard Rock’s decision to shut down racing at Rideau Carleton Raceway.
In a statement, Clark says the track has deep roots in the community and in Ontario horse racing and the decision to close was Hard Rock’s, not the government’s.
Hard Rock, who owns the track, announced last week it’s shutting down the horse racing program after three seasons because the raceway is unsustainable.
However, Clark says the support was there and the government has continued to back Ontario’s horse racing industry with real, long-term funding.
This year alone, Clark says they are delivering millions in support to Ontario’s horse racing industry because standing up for workers and rural communities means backing the sectors they rely on.
He adds Ontario’s horse racing sector also continues to benefit from a long-term funding agreement that provides stable support and has now been extended through 2032.
Clark says they will continue to work with Ontario Racing to ensure that transition support is provided to Eastern Ontario horsepeople and explore other opportunities to have racing dates in 2026.
MyKemptvilleNow.com has reached out to the raceway for comment.
