The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has concluded there is “no evidence” to substantiate claims of race fixing at Dresden Raceway.
Ray Kahnert, senior advisor of communications for the AGCO, told the Sydenham Curren they received information from a member of the public back in the fall with concerns about the integrity of racing in Dresden and at the Leamington racetrack.
“The AGCO has found no evidence to substantiate or support the allegations,” Kahnert said on Thursday.
“Following that request from the public, the AGCO conducted an investigation. This week that thorough investigation was completed.”
Kahnert said the AGCO regulates horse racing in Ontario and has a mandate to protect the public interest and maintain the fairness and integrity of horse racing.
“While this concludes the investigation, the AGCO encourages anyone with information or concerns about racing to call 519-668-7558 or toll free 1-800-522-2876.”
Gary Patterson, the spokesperson for Dresden Raceway, told the Sydenham Current he’s not surprised by the outcome.
“I know how hard people work on the track to stop this from happening,” he said.
“I know how hard the horse people work at getting a great product to the track and this just doesn’t happen, not for a long time in this sport. There are so many stops in place to keep this from happening. I’m not surprised at all by the outcome by Alcohol and Gaming.”
Patterson said he is disappointed the racing fixing allegation was leaked to the media before the investigation was complete.
“This is something that could really give a black eye to the sport, and really there was no basis for anything to be released,” said Patterson, who has been announcing races at Dresden Raceway for over 30 years.
“It was an anonymous allegation. It’s sad… not just with this, but in today’s society it is happening way too much. I’m happy with the outcome of the investigation.”
Patterson said the next steps for the Dresden Raceway is to move forward and prepare for the 2018 season.
Back in December, the AGCO announced Dresden Raceway will have 11 race dates this year.
– Photo credit: Nathan Vercauteren
In the case of false accusations the source should be identified and banned from future participation!
It wasn’t me!