Located in Peterborough, Ontario, Kawartha Downs is a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts and spectators alike. The track hosts live harness racing events throughout the year, as well as simulcast racing from other facilities across Canada and the United States.
Overview of Horse Racing at Kawartha Downs
Kawartha Downs offers a variety of live harness racing events, including pacers and trotters competing in both standardbred and quarter horse races. The track’s schedule typically runs from late https://kawarthadownscasino.ca/ March to early December, with events taking place every Sunday afternoon during the peak season.
History of the Track
The history of Kawartha Downs dates back to 1955 when it was originally opened as a small racetrack called Oshawa Fairgrounds. Over the years, the track has undergone several renovations and expansions to become one of the premier harness racing facilities in Ontario.
Facilities and Amenities
Kawartha Downs offers an array of amenities for patrons to enjoy during live events, including:
- A fully-licensed restaurant with a wide variety of menu options
- Multiple bars offering cocktails, beer, and wine
- An outdoor seating area providing stunning views of the racing track
- An on-site convenience store selling snacks, souvenirs, and merchandise
Types of Horse Racing
Kawartha Downs hosts various types of horse racing events throughout its season. These include:
- Pace racing: This is a popular event where two drivers share control of a single pacer.
- Trotting racing: Also known as trotters, these horses gallop at a slower pace than pacers.
Harness Racing Events
Some notable harness racing events held annually or bi-annually at Kawartha Downs include:
- The Peterborough Dash
- The Kawartha Cup
- The Ontario Breeders Championship
These events attract top-notch talent from across the province, creating an exciting and competitive atmosphere for both drivers and spectators.
Racing Schedule
Kawartha Downs operates under a standard racing schedule during the peak season. This typically consists of live harness racing every Sunday afternoon from late March to early December, with some variations depending on weather conditions or other factors affecting the track’s operations.
Key Statistics
Here are a few key statistics related to Kawartha Downs:
- Total purse awarded annually: $1 million+
- Average number of live events per season: 100
- Number of employees and volunteers: approximately 500
Comparison with Other Racing Facilities
Kawartha Downs operates as part of the Canadian Harness Horse Association, which governs the sport across Canada. In terms of facilities and amenities, Kawartha Downs stands out for its extensive outdoor seating area offering panoramic views of the racing track.
In comparison to other racetracks in Ontario, Kawartha Downs has one of the highest per-capita attendance rates among all racing venues.
Economic Impact
Horse racing at Kawartha Downs generates significant revenue for local businesses and contributes significantly to the regional economy. According to a recent economic impact study conducted by independent analysts:
- Estimated annual contribution from horse racing activities: $50 million+ (direct and indirect)
- Employment generation in related industries such as food, beverage, transportation services and hotel sector.
Community Involvement
Kawartha Downs has invested considerable effort into supporting various community programs. For example, the track participates annually in charity events, where funds are raised for local organizations like food banks and youth centers through their events.
In addition to the charitable initiatives, Kawartha Downs offers students training opportunities to get involved with horse racing as part of their internships or co-op placements at other racetracks within Canada.