Horse breeders in British Columbia are expressing concerns about the potential demise of horse racing in the province as the government has informed the industry that it will cease sharing revenue from slot machines at two casinos adjacent to racetracks next year.
Solicitor General Nina Krieger conveyed in a letter dated November 25 that a portion of the slots revenue from Hastings Casino in Vancouver and Elements Casino in Surrey would no longer be allocated to the horse racing sector. The latter casino is located near the now-closed Fraser Downs course in Surrey, which was shut down earlier this year for redevelopment.
The decision to halt funding stems from a review indicating that the industry’s sustainability would require substantial additional government investment, which the province cannot assure amid a record deficit.
Gary Johnson, Chair of Thoroughbred Racing B.C., expressed that industry representatives were taken aback when Krieger shared the news in a virtual meeting recently. Johnson highlighted that the move is estimated to result in approximately $8 million in losses for the industry, as outlined in the province’s letter setting January 31, 2026, as the termination date for the revenue stream.
Thoroughbred Racing B.C., already grappling with financial challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, is engaging in talks with Great Canadian Entertainment, the current owner of Hastings Racecourse, to adjust the number of race days due to declining slot machine revenues.
A spokesperson for Great Canadian Entertainment stated that they are reviewing the government’s decision and will consult with industry partners shortly.
In response to criticisms from Tory MLA Ian Paton, who underscored the adverse impact on the equine industry, Krieger acknowledged the historical significance of horse racing in B.C. but emphasized the industry’s ongoing financial struggles.
The closure of Fraser Downs has dealt a significant blow to the standardbred horse breeding community in the province, leaving Hastings Racecourse as the lone operational track. Johnson emphasized the urgent need for support and transition plans for industry stakeholders facing an uncertain future.
Moving forward, the horse racing industry in British Columbia faces challenges that could lead to the loss of family farms and relocation of horses if sustainable solutions or alternative plans are not promptly established.