Kawartha Downs Relies on Great Canadian Gaming for Bright Racing Future

May 11 is a special date for Kawartha Downs Racetrack in Fraserville since this is when the new live season is about to see its official launch. The location would have to prove it is worthy of future support part of its arrangement with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation and Great Canadian Gaming Corporation. Its racing performance and the slot machines revenue would decide the racetrack’s funding once 2020 comes.

Horse racing is among the preferred entertainment offering for many Ontarians, evident by the levels of engagement many racetracks showcase on a regular basis. These locations often feature slots locations adjacent to the race course that amp up the gaming potential. Kawartha Downs is one of the preferred spots for live horse racing even though the past several months have been rather tough for it.

Horse Racing Goes Live on May 11

Kawartha Downs’ General Manager Orazio Valente stated that the location is already part of Ontario Racing despite its previous position on the subject. This was a mandatory condition for the racetrack guaranteeing it is going to continue operation of its slot machines venue available on site.

It features some 150 slot machines ready to excite the community and guarantee hefty gaming revenue allocations to both Kawartha Downs and local projects. As a result of the arrangement, the horse track is going to continue receiving funding in the following two years of operation and live races. This is essential, as it would benefit the local horsepeople and improve Kawartha Downs future offerings.

It is going to boost the purses, as well as various costs occurring on a regular basis. Come 2020, the location will have the chance to file its application for a further boost. There is a CA$6-million capital improvements fund, which would be distributed according to the Ontario Racing agreement. Whether or not the racetrack deserves a spot among the locations benefitting from the fund would be decided by its performance in the upcoming months.

Shorelines Slots Supports Future Operation

Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is going to have the final say once 2020 comes and it could continue its gaming operation on site if performance has met the expectations. Mr. Valente made it clear that gambling happening on site of Kawartha Downs would guarantee its bright future with its regular payments and any other scenario would not work down the road.

Earlier this year Shorelines Slots announced the 50 individuals currently employed there have inked contracts covering the following three years. Ted Mansell, Business Agent for Service Employees International Union Local 2, made the official announcement following extensive talks on the subject. October 2018 was a tough one for the gambling location, as it saw the temporary closure around the official launch of Shorelines Casino in Peterborough.

The hiatus lasted for several weeks before an official relaunch took place on December 19. The venue welcomed enthusiasts with a refreshed look. Following a period of uncertainty, the three-year contracts inked would guarantee regular payments and employment to the individuals in the years ahead of 2022.