MPP Clark Disappointed in Shut Down of Horse Racing at Rideau Carleton

April 13, 2026

BROCKVILLE — Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark released the following statement regarding Hard Rock’s decision to shut down horse racing at Rideau Carleton Raceway:

“I am extremely disappointed in Hard Rock’s decision to shut down racing at Rideau Carleton Raceway, a track with deep roots in that community and in Ontario horse racing.

Let’s be clear: this was Hard Rock’s decision, not our government’s. Hard Rock independently determined a path forward for racing was not possible.

The support was there. Our government has continued to back Ontario’s horse racing industry with real, long-term funding.

Our government is delivering support to Ontario’s horse racing industry because standing up for workers and rural communities means backing the sectors they rely on.

Ontario’s horse racing sector also continues to benefit from a long-term funding agreement that provides stable support and has now been extended through 2032.

So, while the opposition will try to play politics, the facts are simple: the money was there, our government stood behind horse racing, and Hard Rock made their decision.

We will continue to work with Ontario Racing to ensure that transition support is provided to Eastern Ontario horsepeople and explore other opportunities to have racing dates in 2026.”