Horse Racing Industry Association
appoints new chair
June 21, 2003
MISSISSAUGA, ON — The Board of Directors
of the Ontario Horse Racing Industry Association (OHRIA) is
pleased to announce the appointment of Thomas G. Deacon, Q.C.
as the Association’s new Chair. Deacon’s election
took place at the OHRIA Annual General Meeting on June 20, 2003.
Deacon formerly served as a member of the Ontario
Racing Commission for six years, with his term of office ending
this past April. In 2000 Deacon retired after 39 years of practising
law with the firm of Smith Lyons, now Gowlings. Previously he
served on the Boards of a number of corporations including Sunnybrook
Hospital. A self-described "punter" since he was 12,
he is also part owner in the Very Dry Stable near Woodbine Racetrack.
At the General Meeting, OHRIA President Glen Sikura
thanked outgoing Chair Herb Bryant for his contribution to the
Association. At the same time, Sikura welcomed Deacon to the
position of chairperson and wished him success on behalf of
the Board.
In addition, the following members were elected
to the 2003 OHRIA board:
Glenn Sikura, President, representing Canadian
Thoroughbred Horse Society
Bill Carter, For-Profit Racetracks
Dr. Moira Gunn, Standardbred Owners and Breeders
of Ontario
Paul Lindsey, Ontario Harness Horse Association
Hugh Mitchell, Woodbine Entertainment Group
Larry Regan, Horsemen’s Benevolent &
Protective Association
Rob Wilding, Not For Profit Racetracks
The Ontario Horse Racing Industry Association
(OHRIA) is an umbrella association which represents all segments
of the horse racing industry. OHRIA was formed in 1994 to address
the unique challenges facing the industry in a dynamic gaming
and entertainment market. The strategic vision of the industry
is to be a world class leader in horse racing and breeding.
Horse racing is the third largest agricultural
industry in Ontario, generating over 37,000 full time equivalent
jobs. Horse racing is an important part of the agricultural
economy and supports the overall provincial economic base.
For more information contact:
Wendy Rinella
Executive Director, OHRIA
905-812-0168, ext. 222
