Kawartha Downs is a horse racing track located in Fraserville, Ontario, Canada, about 35 kilometers east of Peterborough. The venue has been operational since 1956 and features both live and simulcast horse racing events throughout the year. In this article, we will kawarthadownscasino.ca delve into the location and features of Kawartha Downs, providing an overview of its history, facilities, and operations.

History and Background

Kawartha Downs has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1956. The track was initially built on a 140-acre property and featured a one-mile dirt oval racing surface. Over the years, the venue underwent several transformations, including changes to its ownership structure, racing surfaces, and facilities.

In the early 2000s, Kawartha Downs underwent significant renovations, which included the installation of an all-weather track and improvements to its grandstand seating areas. The renovations also enabled the venue to host Thoroughbred races on a regular basis.

Today, Kawartha Downs operates under the ownership of Shorelines Casino Peterborough, which is part of Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Limited. The venue has continued to evolve, with ongoing investments in infrastructure and amenities aimed at enhancing the overall racing experience for patrons.

Location

Kawartha Downs is situated in Fraserville, a small community located about 35 kilometers east of Peterborough. The track’s address is:

200 George Johnston Rd, Fraserville, ON K0L 1S0

The venue has excellent road access and parking facilities available for visitors.

Facilities

Kawartha Downs features an all-weather racing surface measuring one mile in circumference, along with a five-furlong chute that allows horses to accelerate quickly before reaching the main track. The track’s grandstand offers seating areas for spectators, including box seats, patio tables, and bleachers.

In addition to its live racing facilities, Kawartha Downs also features several restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues on site. These include:

  • A large dining room with buffet-style service
  • Multiple bar lounges serving cocktails and snacks
  • An off-track betting area for simulcast races

Visitors can enjoy a range of food options, from fine dining to casual fare, at various locations around the venue.

Types of Racing Events

Kawartha Downs hosts live Thoroughbred racing events on a regular basis, typically running from late April to early November. The track’s schedule includes several stakes races throughout the season, which attract top contenders from across North America.

In addition to live racing events, Kawartha Downs also offers simulcast coverage of horse racing tracks worldwide through its off-track betting area and satellite signal system. This allows patrons to place wagers on a wide range of international racing events.

Racing Surface

Kawartha Downs features an all-weather track surface made from polytrack, which provides excellent traction for both trainers and jockeys alike. The polytrack is designed to be forgiving while maintaining fast times, making it ideal for various weather conditions.

The venue’s five-furlong chute also allows horses to reach maximum speed quickly before accelerating onto the main track. This design enables drivers and horses to maintain optimal performance levels throughout each race event.

Ownership and Operations

Kawartha Downs is owned by Shorelines Casino Peterborough, a subsidiary of Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Limited. The venue operates under the management and direction of the Ontario Racing Commission (ORC), which regulates all aspects of horse racing in the province.

Under the ORC’s jurisdiction, Kawartha Downs adheres to strict safety guidelines for horses and jockeys during live events, including requirements related to track surface conditions, weather monitoring systems, and emergency response plans.

Community Engagement

As a major entertainment venue in eastern Ontario, Kawartha Downs actively engages with local communities through various initiatives. These include:

  • Charity fundraising events
  • Sponsorship programs for area businesses and organizations
  • Season-long racing promotions targeting local horse owners, trainers, and enthusiasts

Kawartha Downs’ commitment to community outreach enhances its reputation as a responsible corporate citizen while contributing positively to the region’s economy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kawartha Downs is an iconic Canadian horse racing destination renowned for its stunning facilities and rich history. Located near Peterborough in eastern Ontario, this esteemed track combines old-school charm with modern amenities for spectators of all ages.

Throughout its ongoing evolution, Kawartha Downs continues to be driven by a shared mission among owners, operators, and enthusiasts alike: providing the highest standard of horse racing entertainment while embracing local community ties.