Shaun MacIsaac, President of the Atlantic Standardbred Breeders Association, today announced a sponsorship agreement between his organization and the Ontario Jockey Club, which operates the Woodbine and Mohawk racetracks in Toronto. The ASBA stages the Atlantic Sires Stakes, a regional stakes program for two and three year old Maritime sired horses, which are held at various Maritime racetracks. Under the agreement, the OJC will contribute $20,000 as a divisional sponsor.
"Our involvement is in recognition of the valued business relationship we have with the Maritime harness racing industry," said Hugh Mitchell, Senior Vice President of the Ontario Jockey Club. "Earlier this spring I had the opportunity to visit the Maritimes and meet with Prince Edward Island Minister Mitch Murphy and Nova Scotia Minister Ernie Fage. I was impressed with their understanding of the harness racing industry, and the role their governments are playing in the Maritimes' harness racing industry. I also received a briefing on the strategic plan developed by the Prince Edward Island Harness Racing Industry Association, and feel confident the industry is heading in the right direction."
The Atlantic Sires Stakes race for a total purses of over $800,000, which are generated from contributions by the governments of Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia, breeders, horse owners, and racetracks. Participating horses earn points
throughout the year leading to the Divisional Champion Finals, held as part of the Atlantic Breeders Crown. Prince Edward Island will host the Atlantic Breeders Crown for the first time in October at the Charlottetown Driving Park.
"We are very pleased that the Ontario Jockey Club has shown it's support for the Maritime harness racing and breeding industry," stated Mr. MacIsaac. "Its support will be directed to increasing purses for participating horsemen, so it will really assist the grassroots of the industry."
Further sponsorships will be announced shortly.