WINNIPEG, MB. – With nearly 500 full-time positions and nearly $28 million per year spent on horse racing in the province, the Manitoba government has decided that it’s time for an external review of the horse-racing industry with the goal of identifying new opportunities to establish a more financially sustainable approach.

In addition to the jobs and economic spinoff created by Assiniboia Downs, horse racing also produced positive benefits to host communities of races in rural Manitoba.

“Horse racing is a well-established industry in Manitoba that provides provincewide economic benefit and entertainment opportunities,” said Minister Ralph Eichler. “While the industry has faced financial challenges, our government wants to find a sustainable future for horse racing in Manitoba. It is our hope that this external review will reveal new opportunities for growth and long-term sustainability.”

The tender includes an operational review of stakeholders, potential synergies and other investors, alternative models, economic impacts, governance models, risk analysis and a detailed recommendation for a financially sustainable model.

The external review will be conducted following a public tendering process, which was posted at www.merx.com. The deadline to apply is March 27.

With Files from the Government of Manitoba

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