⭐ Petition: Save Harness Racing at Rideau Carleton Raceway

Rideau Carleton Raceway has been a pillar of our community for more than 60 years. It has supported hundreds of families, created jobs, preserved a proud local tradition, and kept harness racing alive in Eastern Ontario.

With the sudden decision to end live racing at Rideau, our region is losing:

Its only Standardbred racetrack
A major source of employment
A historic cultural institution
A vital part of the provincial racing ecosystem

This decision was made without public consultation, without transparency, and without a clear explanation of the long‑term consequences for the people, horses, and businesses who depend on this industry.

We believe our community deserves better.

We, the undersigned, call on the Ontario Government, OLG, AGCO, Hard Rock Ottawa, and Ontario Racing to:

1. Provide full transparency
Release non‑confidential information explaining how and why the decision to end racing was made.

2. Conduct an independent public review
Assess the economic, cultural, and social impacts on Eastern Ontario, including the hundreds of workers and horsepeople affected.

3. Pause any dismantling of racing infrastructure
No irreversible steps should be taken until the review is complete.

4. Work toward a solution that preserves harness racing in Eastern Ontario
This may include:

Restoring racing dates at Rideau
Exploring alternative operators
Developing a sustainable long‑term plan for the region

Harness racing is more than a sport — it is a community, a heritage, and a livelihood. We refuse to let it disappear without a fight.

If you believe Rideau Racing deserves a future, please sign and share this petition.

Rideau Racing Matters!