The Lakeshore Horse Racing Association has expressed disappointment after the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario approved only 12 standardbred racing dates for 2026 at Leamington Raceway, down from 13 races held in 2025. Despite applying for more dates and seeing increased betting and attendance, the association, along with other smaller Ontario tracks, faced cutbacks in race days.

Association member Tom Bain emphasized the importance of horse racing to the local economy, noting it supports jobs not only within the racing industry but also for local farmers, veterinarians, and blacksmiths. The 2026 racing season at Leamington Raceway will run for three months, starting Sunday, August 9, with races every Sunday through October 25, beginning at 1 p.m.