B. Discussion of the Issue and Problem
What specific problems or concerns are involved in this issue?
Currently only Trainers who are racing Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds on the “A” track must write a Trainers exam. Quarter Horse trainers are exempt.
Who does the issue affect?
Anyone looking to become licensed as an A track trainer.
What existing HRA rules relate to this issue?
Rules Governing Racing document.
59 g Categories of trainer’s license
C. Possible Solutions and Impact
What solution does this proposal provide?
Produce a rule that states:
(1) An individual is eligible to apply to Horse Racing Alberta for a category A trainer's licence in flat racing, on a form prescribed by Horse Racing Alberta, only if the applicant.
(a) is at least 18 years old, and
(b) has been employed as a licensed groom for at least 2 years or has equivalent experience.
(c) if the applicant has not previously been licensed as a trainer at a racetrack recognized by Horse Racing Alberta, successfully complete and pass a written examination set by a thoroughbred horsemen's association recognized by HRA, and
(d) an oral examination given by the stewards’ board.
How will the solution fix the problem?
This ensures that everyone will be at a certain level of competency to safely and efficiently do the job.
How will the change affect any entities or stakeholders?
This rule would affect the stakeholders in a positive way. They would feel comfortable in the fact that protecting their investments by knowing their trainer is licensed. Horse Racing Alberta will continue to be able to “protect the health, safety, and welfare of racehorses”.
What are the benefits of the proposed change?
The bettors would also have a sense of comfort knowing all Trainers have a certain level of competency.
What are the possible drawbacks of the proposed change?
None
D. Please identify any affected stakeholder groups that expressed support or opposition.
For those stakeholder groups that have expressed an opinion, please list the points on which they agree or disagree, and the arguments they have expressed.
ASHA – Fred Gillis - I believe all Trainers need to be able to pass a written test to hold a Trainers License when competing at Racetracks in Alberta where wagering is being conducted. I’m not sure if you passed the written test if that qualifies the Person for an “A” Track Trainer’s license or not, but they should be able to compete.
HBPA - Mike Vanin - Yes, I agree that A Track trainers should have to pass the test and have an A Track licence.
AQHRA - No response as of posting time.
Century - Allen Goodsell - I believe every licensed trainer in Alberta should have passed a trainer’s test. We as an industry are under a microscope, and we should at least feel like everyone is qualified.
E. Attach the language are proposing. Please show new language in a new paragraph below the current wording. If you are proposing that current rule language, be eliminated, please indicate the text to be deleted.
(1) An individual is eligible to apply to Horse Racing Alberta for a category A trainer's licence in flat racing, on a form prescribed by Horse Racing Alberta, only if the applicant;
(a) is at least 18 years old, and
(b) has been employed as a licensed groom for at least 2 years or has equivalent experience.
(c) if the applicant has not previously been licensed as a trainer at a race track recognized by Horse Racing Alberta, successfully complete and pass a written examination set by a thoroughbred horsemen's association recognized by Racing Alberta, and
(d) an oral examination given by the stewards board.
F. Do any racing jurisdictions currently have a version of this rule in effect? If yes, please attach copies of those rules.
Ajax Downs
1. Complete Final Trainer Test with a passing grade of 90%
The trainer test has a fee of $100 + HST. The passing grade for this written test is 90%. If 90% is not achieved, the applicant can rewrite the test once in any calendar year, but no sooner than 45 days after the initial test. There will be a charge of $50+ HST per retest.
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