Hastings Racing Halted Without Crucial Slot Revenue Support

Hastings Park, a prominent racetrack in British Columbia, has officially announced its cessation of Thoroughbred racing, leading to the end of over 130 years of horse racing. This decision, made public on December 5, comes on the heels of a government notification regarding a significant change in revenue support.

Industry Changes and Economic Impact

Effective January 31, 2026, the provincial government will no longer provide a share of slot machine revenue to support horse racing. Hastings Park has been part of the slot machine gaming landscape since 2008, which aimed to enhance the overall gaming experience in British Columbia. The revenue from the slot machines was crucial, contributing an estimated CA$8 million to CA$10 million annually to horse racing purses. This funding was deemed essential for the sustainability of the racing industry in the province, particularly as the slots often affected the amount wagered on live races.

Statements from Officials

Wayne Odegard, regional vice president of Great Canadian Entertainment, which operates Hastings Park, expressed the difficulty of this decision. “This was an extremely difficult decision,” he stated, acknowledging the track’s historical significance and impact on the community. Odegard pointed to a lack of economic feasibility as the primary reason for halting racing operations.

Future of the Facility

Despite the closure of Thoroughbred racing, Hastings Park will continue its casino and simulcast racebook operations. However, the decision raises concerns about the future of the breeding and racing industries in British Columbia. With no viable racing opportunities, many horse owners, trainers, and breeders may be forced to look outside the province for alternatives.

Wider Implications for Horse Racing

The developments at Hastings Park coincide with trends in other regions. Numerous jurisdictions have started to reconsider the financial relationship between casinos and racetracks. Casinos often present higher profit margins, leading to suggestions that the financial support for horse racing is a subsidy that could be reduced or eliminated.

• Florida’s recent attempt to separate casinos and racetracks faced significant opposition, reflecting the potential risks involved in such policies.
• Hastings Park has hosted major events such as the British Columbia Derby, Ballerina Stakes, and British Columbia Oaks.
• The closure leaves Vancouver’s racing opportunities limited, with the nearest alternative being Emerald Downs in Washington state, approximately three hours away.

As Hastings Park closes this chapter of its history, it underscores the ongoing challenges facing the horse racing industry in British Columbia.