EDMONTON, AB – September 29th, 2026 – Horse Racing Alberta is welcoming new ownership of Alberta’s two “A” Circuit racetracks and looking forward to a new chapter for the province’s horse racing industry.
While the racetracks will operate under new names, their importance to Alberta racing remains unchanged. Horse Racing Alberta looks forward to working with Highfield Investment Group Inc. and supporting their vision as they become an important part of Alberta’s horse racing community.
“We are excited to welcome Highfield Investment Group and a new chapter for these two important Alberta “A” Circuit racetracks,” said Kent Verlik, CEO of Horse Racing Alberta. “While the names of the facilities may change, their importance to Alberta’s horse racing industry remains the same. We look forward to working closely with the new owners, supporting their vision and welcoming them as an important part of our horse racing community.
“We also want to recognize Century Casinos for the important role they have played in Alberta racing. Their investment, commitment and support have helped build these racetracks and contributed to the growth of horse racing in our province. We thank them for their partnership and wish them well as we look ahead to this next chapter.”
A New Chapter Built on a Strong Foundation
The ownership transition also provides an opportunity to recognize the significant role Century Casinos has played in the modern history of Alberta horse racing.
When Northlands Park closed in Edmonton, there was significant uncertainty about the future of live horse racing in Alberta. Century Casinos stepped forward with the investment and commitment to build new racetracks, giving the industry the opportunity to continue racing in the Edmonton & Calgary regions and establishing a new foundation for the future.
The development of the two new “A” Circuit racetracks provided Alberta racing with modern facilities and allowed the industry to continue supporting the thousands of people, businesses and agricultural operations connected to the horse racing industry.
“This is an exciting time for Alberta horse racing, and we are looking forward to welcoming the new owners and working with them as these two racetracks begin a new chapter under new names,” said The Honourable Diana McQueen, Board Chair, Horse Racing Alberta. “Racetracks are more than facilities. They are home to the horses, horsemen and women, breeders, owners, trainers, jockeys and many others who make our industry possible.
“On behalf of the Horse Racing Alberta Board of Directors and staff, I would also like to thank Century Casinos for its years of partnership and support. When Northlands Park closed, there was significant uncertainty about the future of live horse racing in Alberta. Century Casinos stepped forward with the investment and commitment to build new racetracks, giving our industry the opportunity to continue racing and establishing a new foundation for the future.”
An Industry with Significant Economic Impact
Alberta horse racing is also an important contributor to the province’s economy, agriculture and communities.
In 2025, the Alberta horse racing industry was estimated to contribute approximately $124 million annually to Alberta’s economy through GDP and support nearly 1,900 jobs across the province. When the direct, indirect and induced impacts of horse racing are considered, the industry generates approximately $264 million in economic activity annually, including more than $72 million in wages and salaries for Albertans.
The industry supports a broad network of people and businesses, including breeders, owners, trainers, jockeys, grooms, veterinarians, farriers, feed suppliers, agricultural producers, rural businesses, racetrack employees and many other equine and business services.
Its impact extends well beyond race days, with racing activity supporting agricultural operations and businesses throughout Alberta and contributing to the economic vitality of communities across the province.
Recent results from the 2026 Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (CTHS) - Alberta Thoroughbred Sale provide another encouraging indication of the investment and confidence within Alberta’s racing and breeding industry.
The September 23rd CTHS Alberta sale in Red Deer saw 74 yearlings sell for $1,119,200, with gross sales increasing almost 10 per cent over 2025.
The sale was led by an Alberta-bred filly by the stallion Olympiad out of the Violence mare Buy Me a Rose, which sold for $110,000 to Newtown Anner Stud Farm of Kentucky. Significantly for Alberta racing, the filly will remain in the province to race.
“We’re hearing good things about what’s happening with racing here in Alberta and really loved our experience with Playful last year, so we thought we’d buy a filly and be part of an exciting new future in Alberta,” said Hanzly Albina, General Manager of Newtown Anner Stud Farm, following the sale.
The results also highlighted the strength and potential of Alberta’s breeding program, with first-crop yearlings by Alberta-based stallions Fight On and Tap Master attracting buyers, while yearlings by established Alberta stallions also generated strong interest.
The continued investment in Alberta-bred horses and the broader economic contribution of horse racing demonstrate the strength of the industry that Highfield Investment Group is joining. Horse Racing Alberta looks forward to building on the foundation established over the past several years, working collaboratively with the new owners and industry partners, and supporting a vibrant future for racing in Alberta.
“We are grateful for the important role Century Casinos has played in the story of horse racing in Alberta and for the commitment and support they have provided over the years. We look forward with enthusiasm to building a strong relationship with the new ownership and to seeing what this next chapter brings for Alberta horse racing. We know our fans and bettors are passionate about this industry, and we believe they will be excited to welcome Highfield Investment Group and see the new energy and opportunities they bring to our racing community,” said Verlik.
MEETING: Whoop-Up Downs, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada - September 18, 2026
The TRAINER LICENCE for FLOYD WILLIAM BUFFALO, PERM. ADD.: PUNNICHY, SASKATCHEWAN, CANADA, D.O.B. MAY 8, 1958, is hereby CANCELLED WITHOUT PREJUDICE so he may be licensed in another capacity (Groom).
MEETING: Century Downs Racetrack and Casino, Balzac, Alberta, Canada - September 22, 2026
OWNER/TRAINER, AUTHORIZED AGENT, JOAN DOREEN PETROWSKI, PERM. ADD.: INNISFREE, ALBERTA, CANADA, D.O.B. MARCH 15, 1943, is hereby FINED THE SUM OF ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100.00) for failing to notify HORSE RACING ALBERTA Security that horses would be shipped in on Monday, September 14, 2026.
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Policy No. RLP012 dated August 14, 2024.
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 123(1), 286(1)(a) and 296(1)(a)(2)(a).
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 297(1)(2) fine to be paid within ten (10) days.
(If fine remains unpaid after ten (10) days from its imposition, any licence held by the participant shall be suspended until the fine is paid in full, unless the Board of Stewards otherwise directs.)
MEETING: Century Downs Racetrack and Casino, Balzac, Alberta, Canada - September 19, 2026
The JOCKEY LICENCE of MARTIN ROLDAN ORTIZ, PERM. ADD.: LEDUC, ALBERTA, CANADA, D.O.B. JANUARY 30, 1988, is hereby CANCELLED WITHOUT PREJUDICE so he may be licensed in another capacity (Outrider).
MEETING: Century Mile Racetrack & Casino, Alberta, Canada - September 19, 2026
JOCKEY, RICO WAZIR WALCOTT, PERM. ADD.: EDMONTON, ALBERTA, CANADA, D.O.B. MAY 9, 1989, is hereby FINED THE SUM OF NINE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($900.00) AND SUSPENDED FROM RIDING IN A RACE FOR ONE (1) DAY, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 for misuse of the Riding Crop (by applying the riding crop more than six (6) times during the race) while riding #8 “LUTEDIDIT” in Race 7, Saturday, September 12, 2026. (Fifth offence.)
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 210(3)(d), 286(1)(a) and 296(1)(a)(2)(a)(b).
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 297(1)(2) fine to be paid within ten (10) days.
(If fine remains unpaid after ten (10) days from its imposition, any licence held by the participant shall be suspended until the fine is paid in full, unless the Board of Stewards otherwise directs.)
MEETING: Century Mile Racetrack & Casino - September 15, 2026
This ruling number is cancelled.
MEETING: Century Mile Racetrack & Casino, Alberta, Canada - September 16, 2026
Having PAID his FINE imposed, SERVED the required SUSPENSION, and PROVIDED a NEGATIVE SAMPLE as required by HORSE RACING ALBERTA, regarding Quarter Horse Ruling 2026 – 31 (Amended) dated September 2, 2026, JOCKEY, JOSE BLAS BOTELLO LULE, PERM. ADD.: OLDS, ALBERTA, CANADA, D.O.B. FEBRUARY 3, 1991, is hereby RESTORED TO GOOD STANDING AND IS ELIGIBLE TO PARTICPATE IN RACING IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA.
MEETING: Century Mile Racetrack & Casino, Alberta, Canada - September 15, 2026
JOCKEY, DANIEL TAVARES BRICENO, PERM. ADD.: MEXICO CITY, MEXICO, D.O.B.: NOVEMBER 12, 1999, is hereby SUSPENDED FROM RACE RIDING FOR ONE (1) DAY, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2026 AND FINED THE SUM OF SIX HUNDRED AND SEVENTY FIVE DOLLARS ($675.00) for the misuse of the Riding Crop (by applying the riding crop more than six (6) times during the race) while riding #8 “SHE MY DULCE GIRL” in Race 2, September 12, 2026. (Fifth offence)
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 210(3)(d), 286(1)(a), and 296(1)(a)(2)(a)(b).
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 297(1)(2) fine to be paid within ten (10) days.
(If fine remains unpaid after ten (10) days from its imposition, any licence held by the participant shall be suspended until the fine is paid in full, unless the Board of Stewards otherwise directs.)
MEETING: Century Mile Racetrack & Casino, Alberta, Canada - September 15, 2026
JOCKEY, ALEJANDRO JORGE ANGELES MARTINEZ, PERM. ADD.: ALTOONNA, MEXICO, D.O.B. MARCH 27, 1991, is hereby FINED THE SUM OF ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100.00) for misuse of the Riding Crop (by applying the riding crop more than six (6) times during the race) while riding #7 “0 SAWYER” in Race 2, Saturday, September 12, 2026. (First Offense.)
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 210(3)(d), 286(1)(a), and 296(1)(a)(2)(a).
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 297(1)(2) fine to be paid within ten (10) days.
(If a fine remains unpaid after ten (10) days from its imposition, any licence held by the participant shall be suspended until the fine is paid in full, unless the Board of Stewards otherwise directs.)
MEETING: Century Mile Racetrack & Casino, Alberta, Canada - September 15, 2026
JOCKEY, MARTIN ROLDAN ORITZ, PERM. ADD.: LEDUC, ALBERTA, CANADA, D.O.B. JANUARY 30, 1988, is hereby FINED THE SUM OF ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100.00) for misuse of the Riding Crop (by applying the riding crop more than six (6) times during the race) while riding #6 “WAGON BURNER 109” in Race 2, Saturday, September 12, 2026. (First Offense.)
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 210(3)(d), 286 (1)(a), and 296(1)(a)(2)(a).
In accordance with HORSE RACING ALBERTA Rule 297(1)(2) fine to be paid within ten (10) days.
(If a fine remains unpaid after ten (10) days from its imposition, any licence held by the participant shall be suspended until the fine is paid in full, unless the Board of Stewards otherwise directs.)