Horse racing season to kick off this weekend

The warm summer-like conditions we have been experiencing in southern Alberta means many summer activities will be resuming again soon. That includes horse racing.

For those itching to hit the race track to see the ponies in action, you’re in luck. Beginning this weekend (May 6), the Rocky Mountain Turf Club (RMTC) in Lethbridge will kick off their 2023 racing season. They are one of only six racing tracks in Alberta. CEO of the RMTC Maxx Gibb says horse racing is a big component in southern Alberta’s blood.

The 2023 racing season will feature a total of 32 race days between May 6 and October 9. For those concerned about the safety of the horses and the sport, high above the race track, a team of stewards oversee the races to make sure each one is conducted in a safe, fair and honest manner. Theresa Sealy with Horse Racing Alberta gives an overview of how the sport is regulated.

Admission to the race track is free. And for the children (and the young-at-heart adults), there is also a petting zoo with a variety of animals you can encounter.