Prince Edward Island's minister responsible for the Maritime Provinces Harness Racing Commission says that discussions regarding a long-term commitment by the Atlantic Lottery Corporation to the region's harness racing industry should help ensure its continued growth and stability. Eric Hammill said he is confident the ALC will continue to assist the industry notwithstanding that the original support plan may change.
"I am very pleased with the current discussions between the Corporation and the industry over a secure, long-term funding formula for purses," said Mr. Hammill. "The new formula would allow for regular and Atlantic Sire Stakes purses to maintain current levels, with the opportunity for increases in the future."
Mr. Hammill said that total purses paid out under the Atlantic Sire Stakes program over the past year have been approximately $1.0 million, up from $675,000 just two years ago. He said the new funding formula being developed will ensure the long-term stability of adequate purse structures.
Mr. Hammill also announced that the Maritime harness racing industry is in the process of forming a new organization which is modelled after the very successful Ontario Harness Racing Industry Association. The new organization would work with the Atlantic Lottery Corporation in formulating purse pool distribution within each province.
Mr. Hammill said that indications Nova Scotia will continue its involvement with the Atlantic Lottery Corporation will make such joint initiatives more effective and successful.
"The harness racing industry has turned the corner and can look to a much brighter future," said Mr. Hammill. "That is a tribute to the cooperative efforts of the three provincial governments, the Atlantic Lottery Corporation and the harness racing industry."
Mr. Hammill said the ongoing discussions involving the ALC and the harness racing industry have resulted in a renewed interest in the Prince Edward Island Colt Stakes Sale being held this Friday evening at the Charlottetown Civic Center. He said the quality of the yearlings on offer has never been better, and the future outlook for the industry is much more positive than in recent years.