Hard Rock Ottawa Ends 64-Year Harness Racing Era at Rideau Carleton Raceway
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Ottawa announced last week it will end harness racing at Rideau Carleton Raceway as of the 2026 season, concluding 64 years of operations in the capital. The decision follows extensive discussions with Ontario Racing, which confirmed the program is no longer sustainable despite significant investments in infrastructure. Christine Crump, president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, stated consumer preferences have shifted, making a viable future impossible. This marks the fifth North American harness track closure since 2022. Affected employees receive alternative job offers and training within the organization.
Announcement Follows Infrastructure Investments and Changing Preferences
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Ottawa, which opened its $350-million hotel and casino resort last July, has managed three race seasons under sole ownership. Despite millions invested in racing infrastructure and multiple operational adjustments over the past three years, president Christine Crump explained a sustainable path was not possible. ‘Consumer preferences have changed,’ Crump said in the release. The announcement shocked horse owners, trainers, and drivers who had invested heavily in the upcoming season.
Support Measures for Horsepeople and Ongoing Discussions
Ontario Racing’s independent chair Andrew Gaughan encouraged local horsepeople to relocate to any of the remaining 11 Standardbred racetracks in Ontario. Funding previously allocated to Rideau Carleton will partly support a relocation program, with the balance increasing purses at other tracks. Ontario Racing communications specialist Dave Briggs noted the two sides remain in talks, and saving the program is not impossible, though it requires significant regulatory steps. Horse owner and trainer Mandy Archer described the decision as devastating, splitting her family as her son now races in Toronto.
Employee Protections and Broader Industry Context
All directly affected employees are offered alternative employment within Hard Rock along with skills training for career transitions. Brian Scott of South Branch Stables indicated the closure could force him to sell his facility and wind down operations built around on-site bred horses. Robbie Robinson reported spending about $25,000 monthly maintaining his operation before relocating horses to Toronto. Gaughan thanked the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming for long-term support to the industry. Racing at the venue remains an important historical chapter, per Crump.
