Located in Fraserville, Ontario, Canada, Kawartha Downs is a harness racing track that offers both live and simulcast racing events throughout the year. The track is owned by J-Lafrance Ltd. and has been in operation since 1956.

Overview of Harness Racing at Kawartha Downs

Harness racing involves horses Kawartha Downs (Shorelines) pulling a sulky (a small carriage) around an oval track, with drivers competing to complete laps within specific time limits. At Kawartha Downs, harness racing events take place from mid-April to late December, featuring both standardbred and quarter horse racing.

Racing Schedule and Events

Kawartha Downs’ live racing season typically runs from Thursday evenings in May through to Saturday afternoons in November, with some special event days and closures throughout the year. The track also hosts evening racing sessions during peak months (June to September).

Simulcasting at Kawartha Downs

In addition to live events, simulcast harness racing is available at Kawartha Downs’ on-track facilities. This allows patrons to watch and wager on races from other tracks across North America in real-time.

Track Layout and Features

Kawartha Downs features a one-mile (1 3/4 miles around the turn) oval track with electronic tote boards for wagering information, as well as concession stands offering snacks and refreshments. The facility also has an on-site casino area that offers slots, table games, and other forms of entertainment.

Amenities and Services

Kawartha Downs provides various amenities to enhance the racing experience:

1. Concession Stands : Offering food, beverages, and snack options.
2. Bet Centers : Providing wagering information on live races, as well as simulcast events from other tracks.
3. Seating Area : Comfortable seating for spectators to watch live harness racing or simulcasts.

Types of Bets Offered

At Kawartha Downs, patrons can place a variety of wagers on live and/or simulcast harness racing, including:

1. Win: Picking the horse that crosses the finish line first.
2. Place (P): Betting on a horse to come in second or third, depending on odds.
3. Show (S): Choosing a horse that finishes within top three positions.

Other types of wagers available at Kawartha Downs include:

• Exacta: Predicting both the win and place finishers’ order
• Quinella: Betting on two horses to come in either first or second, regardless of their exact finish order
• Triple (Trifecta): Selecting three horses with a specified finishing position (e.g., 1st-2nd-3rd)
• Daily Double (DD): Picking the winners of both Race A and B

Legal Considerations

Kawartha Downs operates under the jurisdiction of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, ensuring that all activities are conducted fairly and responsibly. The track is also subject to thoroughbred racing regulations and standards set by Equine Canada.

Accessibility and User Experience

Visitors can access Kawartha Downs via Highway 7A or Fraserville Road from Peterborough and surrounding areas:

• Parking : Free, ample parking space near the main entrance.
• Accessible Seating: Wheelchair-accessible seating area for spectators with disabilities.

Responsible Wagering

Kawartha Downs emphasizes responsible gaming practices by providing various tools to help patrons monitor their betting habits and avoid potential addiction issues:

1. Self-Exclusion Programs: Allowing individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from participating in certain activities.
2. Problem Gaming Services: Accessible support for those who feel they may have a problem with excessive wagering.

Safety Precautions

Kawartha Downs adheres to strict safety guidelines and regulations to ensure the well-being of both patrons and participants:

1. Emergency Response Plan : Containing procedures in case of on-track accidents or medical emergencies.
2. Security Measures : Implemented for patron protection, including metal detectors at entrances.

Track Statistics and History

Kawartha Downs boasts an impressive history with many notable achievements:

• Racing Season: Typically spans from mid-April to late November each year (around May to December).
• Track Record: Achieved a record win of $200,000 in the 1999 season.

Overall Experience and Future Prospects

Kawartha Downs provides an enjoyable experience for fans through its well-maintained facilities, competitive events schedule, and supportive staff. While some have expressed concerns about accessibility issues or specific event frequencies, efforts continue to improve these areas while maintaining a fun environment for patrons.