- In response to the provincial government announcing the end of government funding for horse racing, Hastings Racecourse has announced they will stop horse racing effective immediately.
- While there is industry pushback to the B.C. government’s announcement to end funding for horse racing, the decision did not happen in isolation.
- This change follows decades of decline in revenue and public support and heavy reliance on public funding.
- Hastings Racecourse was the last active race track in B.C., meaning there is no more horse racing in the province.
- Hastings has seen multiple fatalities in recent seasons, including three known horse deaths in 2025, four in 2024, and eight in 2023. Each loss is a reminder of the inherent risks horses face in the racing industry.
While incredibly grateful for this decision, the VHS recognizes the uncertainty it may create for workers and animals within the industry. The VHS urges the provincial government and industry stakeholders to ensure a just and compassionate transition plan, including:
- Support for workers in the horse racing industry faced with this transition;
- Safe, secure retirement and rehoming plans for horses.
Join the VHS in extending our sincere gratitude to Minister Nina Krieger for her leadership in making this decision and encourage meaningful support for workers and animals transitioning away from horse racing. Use the VHS’s quick action tool below to send a letter to the Minister and your Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA).
The VHS recently spoke with CBC on this news. Click here to watch the interview!