Ontario Racing announces new Ontario-bred bonus program

ETOBICOKE, Ontario – Ontario Racing has announced a $2.375 million bonus program as part of the 2019 Thoroughbred Improvement Program (TIP).

The new program offers a $2,500 bonus that will be distributed evenly between the owner and breeder of a winning Ontario-bred in overnight races at Woodbine. At Fort Erie, $1,250 will be split evenly between the winning owner and breeder of a victorious Ontario-bred in overnight events.

When coupled with the existing TIP program, there is now more than $16 million available for Thoroughbred horsemen in 2019, according to a release put out by Ontario Racing.

“This is an historic day for Ontario’s thoroughbred owners and breeders,” said Ontario Racing’s chairman, John Hayes. “A strong and impactful TIP program is paramount in supporting the horsepeople within our industry. It is equally important to pave the way for new owners and breeders to discover our sport, as well as ensuring the health and welfare of our horses through the equine research program. Ontario Racing continues to work closely with our horsepeople and stakeholders to see horse racing flourish throughout the province.”

The additional TIP funds are a contribution from the Ontario government, and are not derived from wagering, which is the case with the remainder of the TIP program.