HBPA of Ontario

Links for Phase 2 Vaccine Rollout - *Check with your health unit in your municipality here - https://www.phdapps.health.gov.on.ca/phulocator/ Here is the 'hot spot' list by postal code: https://www.todocanada.ca/list-of-ontario-hot-spots-neighb/

Good Morning Members, While we continue to endure the unknown of this ongoing pandemic, I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank each of you for your continued support, patience, and resilience as we figure out our industry’s next steps. That being said, this communication has been particularly difficult to write. The COVID-19 pandemic, along with its numerous variants have taken a toll on our industry. Yesterday, the HBPA wrote yet another letter to Governme...nt officials requesting a meeting to discuss the re-opening of racing. We can only assure you that we are doing all we can. We are also encouraging Ontario Racing and other associations to take a stronger and more energized engagement with the Province. Currently, the HBPA is in discussions with the Ontario Racing Task Force looking at options to try to mitigate owner losses. We will keep you posted. The best way to assure the earliest possible opening is by make sure we all remain safe, continue to follow ongoing protocols (social distancing, mask wearing and diligent hand washing) and keeping the backstretch safe. We need to be sure we follow all safety measures and ask that only licensed workers handling horses attend the backside. We will continue to keep you updated as more information becomes available. Until then, please keep healthy and safe. Regards, Sue Leslie President, HBPA of Ontario See more

From WOODBINE - UPDATE ON 2021 RACING SEASON - As a result of the Provincial State of Emergency declared today by the Government of Ontario, which includes a province-wide 28-day stay-at-home order effective Thursday, April 8 at 12:01 a.m., Woodbine Entertainment announced that the 2021 Thoroughbred Meet at Woodbine Racetrack has been postponed. ... Woodbine Entertainment also confirmed that it is continuing its efforts with government officials and local health authorities to be permitted to safely operate live racing during a lockdown situation which would allow the Thoroughbred season to commence after the stay-at-home order is lifted on May 6. The season was scheduled to begin on Saturday, April 17. This is very difficult news to share with our horse people, horse players and fans throughout North America and the world, said Jim Lawson, CEO, Woodbine Entertainment. Since the beginning of the pandemic more than a year ago, we have supported the Government of Ontario every step of the way and will continue to do so. However, if we do not receive permission to safely operate live racing during a lockdown situation after the stay-at-home is lifted, our industry and business could be greatly impacted as trainers will not bring their horses to Woodbine Racetrack and more horses will be shipped-out to the United States where there are plenty of racing opportunities. This situation has the potential to have a devastating and long-lasting impact on the thoroughbred industry in Ontario. During stay-at-home order, Woodbine will continue to operate the backstretch at Woodbine Racetrack as an essential service for the stabling, training and care of horses. Active training, including timed workouts, will continue but starting gate and receiving barn training operations will be temporarily suspended for 10 days.