Written by Swikblog News Desk
“Vancouver, Canada — In a stunning development that has shaken British Columbia’s sporting community, Hastings Racecourse and Casino has permanently ended thoroughbred horse racing, bringing a 132-year tradition to an abrupt close. The announcement was made late Thursday, with the facility confirming the shutdown is effective immediately.
Great Canadian Entertainment (GCE), which operates the East Vancouver venue, said the decision followed an “extremely difficult” internal review. Regional vice-president Wayne Odegard said it ultimately came down to one factor: “a strict business decision based on a lack of economic feasibility to move forward with another season of horse racing at Hastings.”
The sudden closure ends one of Canada’s longest-running racing legacies, with the track first opening in 1889. Thousands of riders, breeders, grooms, trainers, and fans have passed through the gates for more than a century — but racing will not return.
Funding Cut: The Issue That Triggered the Collapse
The shutdown aligns with recent reporting from CBC News and Global News, which revealed the provincial government had cut off the company’s share of slot-machine revenue — funding that historically supported racing operations at Hastings. Without that subsidy, which amounted to millions annually, running a full racing season was no longer financially viable.
The move marks a major shift in provincial policy. While the B.C. Lottery Corporation has not yet released a formal statement, industry insiders say racing subsidies had been under review for several years due to rising costs and shrinking betting revenue.
Declining Attendance and Growing Welfare Concerns
The shutdown also highlights long-standing structural issues. Attendance at Hastings has been falling for more than a decade, even before the pandemic. Wagering revenue has likewise dropped sharply, leaving the industry increasingly reliant on government support.
The Vancouver Humane Society applauded the government’s funding withdrawal, calling it “an important step toward phasing out an industry that has long relied on public money.” The group cited declining attendance, shrinking revenues, and ongoing animal welfare concerns as reasons the sport no longer aligns with public expectations.
Jobs at Risk and an Uncertain Future for B.C. Racing
The closure is expected to impact between 200 and 300 workers, including trainers, stable staff, veterinarians, jockeys, food-service teams, and track maintenance staff. GCE said it is focusing on supporting employees and helping racing participants evaluate future options.
With Hastings gone, B.C. is now left without a major thoroughbred venue. Remaining tracks — such as Fraser Downs in Cloverdale — primarily host standardbred harness racing, making it unclear where trainers and horse owners will go from here. Some may relocate to tracks in Alberta, Washington State, or Manitoba.
The provincial government has not provided details about whether transition support will be offered to displaced workers or whether any alternative racing venues will be considered.
What Happens to the Site?
The Hastings facility sits on a valuable stretch of East Vancouver land, raising immediate speculation about redevelopment. No plans have been announced, but real estate analysts expect a long-term conversation about housing, mixed-use development, or expanded entertainment space.
For now, the casino remains open, but racing — the heart of Hastings for more than a century — is officially finished.
This report builds on information published by The Canadian Press on Dec. 5, 2025.
Next Article to Read: Canada’s ‘Explosive’ Job Growth: What the New Labour Report Reveals
