The AGCO approves dates for horse racing in the Province of Ontario.

In order to be approved, racetracks must negotiate and sign Transfer Payment Agreements with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG), in consultation with the Ontario Racing Association (OR).

On any approved date, the AGCO provides staff to oversee the conduct of racing:

  • Judges or Stewards oversee racing and rule violations.
  • Licensing Agents license participants.
  • Inspectors and investigators ensure that licences are checked and the regulatory standards are kept.
  • Official Veterinarians assess each horse’s fitness for racing.

Individuals hired by the racetrack but considered officials under the Rules also report to the AGCO through the Judges or Stewards. This includes paddock judges, charters, horse identifiers and starting gate crews.

The Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA), through the authority of the federal Criminal Code, ensures that all wagering activity is conducted according to a highly structured set of rules. The CPMA also oversees all testing for prohibited substances in horses. Racetrack facilities are also subject to provincial and municipal controls over their use of land and disposal of waste products.

Through the licence issued by the AGCO, the racetrack is required to comply with the Rules of Racing. At the racetrack, the Judges and Stewards oversee the races and rule on any violations. The Judges and Stewards report to the AGCO Director of Racing, who is responsible for ensuring that the regulations, controls and rules implemented by the AGCO are carried out.

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