Released on May 23, 2008
The Yorkton Exhibition Association is receiving approximately $324,000 in funding from the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority to support harness racing in Yorkton.
"Our government is committed to supporting Saskatchewan's horse racing industry by providing operating funding and facility grants," Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Dan D'Autremont said. "This funding will help ensure the viability of the horse racing industry and allow it to continue its important contributions to the province."
The funding, which coincides with the start of the 2008 race season, includes $224,000 for track operations that will support 16 days of harness racing in Yorkton. The remaining $100,000 will be used by the Yorkton Exhibition Association to begin construction on a new parimutuel building.
Yorkton MLA Greg Ottenbreit said a growing local interest in harness racing has meant economic spin-offs for the community.
"Government funding that supports both track operations and local infrastructure helps to ensure the long term future of Yorkton's exhibition grounds," Ottenbreit said. "This area of the city is undergoing a major revitalization and further enhancements to the exhibition grounds will help Yorkton to continue to grow as a strong, prosperous and vibrant place to live."
Yorkton Exhibition Association president Sheldon Nicholson said the facility funding will help the association begin the initial phase of its larger redevelopment plans for the exhibition grounds.
"We're very appreciative of the funding provided by government," Nicholson said. "By improving our facilities we've been able to increase interest in harness racing. Building a new multipurpose, parimutuel building will allow us to further grow an interest in racing and offer a variety of other exciting events throughout the year."
Construction on the new parimutuel building is expected to be completed in time for the exhibition's summer fair in July.
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For more information, contact:
David Morris
Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1721
Email: dmorris@slga.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-531-9243