Standardbred Canada is an incorporated non-profit organization that oversees the registration, storage, and distribution of information on all registered Standardbred horses in Canada and beyond. The organization also plays a crucial role in promoting harness racing in the country. Standardbred Canada was formed in 1998 after the amalgamation of the breed’s two national organizations, the Canadian Trotting Association and the Canadian Standardbred Horse Society.
Standardbred horses are a breed of trotting or pacing horses that are known for their speed and stamina. They are used almost exclusively in harness racing and are raced worldwide. Standardbred Canada provides a range of services for breeders, owners, trainers, and other stakeholders in the harness racing community. These services include information on horse ownership, track personnel, and stake payments and financial transactions.
Key Takeaways
- Standardbred Canada is a non-profit organization that oversees the registration, storage, and distribution of information on all registered Standardbred horses in Canada and beyond.
- The organization plays a crucial role in promoting harness racing in the country and provides a range of services for breeders, owners, trainers, and other stakeholders in the harness racing community.
- Standardbred horses are a breed of trotting or pacing horses that are known for their speed and stamina and are used almost exclusively in harness racing.
Understanding Standardbred Canada
Standardbred Canada (SC) is a non-profit organization incorporated in Canada. Its primary mandate is to supervise, record, store, and distribute information on all registered Standardbred horses. It is the nation’s primary registry for Standardbred horses and a crucial support system for the entire harness racing community. SC also provides a range of services to its members and the general public, including information on racing events, breeding, and horse ownership.
The Canadian Trotting Association (CTA) and the Canadian Standardbred Horse Society (CSHS) merged in 1997 to form Standardbred Canada. The organization is responsible for maintaining the official registry of Standardbred horses in Canada and ensuring that all horses are registered correctly. It also maintains a database of all Standardbred horses that have raced in Canada, including their breeding and racing histories.
Standardbred Canada offers a range of services to its members, including access to its online database, which provides information on racing events, breeding, and horse ownership. Members can also take advantage of the organization’s Easy 1-2-3 Guide, which provides a step-by-step guide to the various services offered by SC.
SC also provides a glossary of industry jargon and terminology to help members better understand the world of harness racing. In addition, it offers a range of educational resources to help members improve their knowledge of breeding, training, and racing.
Overall, Standardbred Canada is an essential organization for anyone involved in the world of harness racing in Canada. Its services and resources are designed to support the industry and ensure that all Standardbred horses are registered correctly and treated with the care and respect they deserve.
Role and Services of Standardbred Canada
Standardbred Canada is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to promoting harness racing and breeding in Canada. It was formed in 1998 due to the amalgamation of the breed’s two national organizations, The Canadian Trotting Association and The Canadian Standardbred Horse Society.
Services
Standardbred Canada provides a wide range of services to its members, including:
- Registry services: Standardbred Canada maintains the official registry of Standardbred horses in Canada. This includes registering foals, maintaining ownership records, and issuing breeding certificates.
- Membership services: Standardbred Canada offers membership to horse owners, breeders, trainers, and other industry professionals. Members have access to a variety of benefits, including discounts on products and services, access to industry news and information, and eligibility for awards and recognition.
- Records services: Standardbred Canada maintains a comprehensive database of racing records for Standardbred horses in Canada. This includes information on race results, earnings, and performance statistics.
Membership
Membership in Standardbred Canada is open to anyone with an interest in harness racing and breeding. Members have access to a variety of benefits, including:
- Discounts on products and services: Standardbred Canada members are eligible for discounts on a wide range of products and services, including feed, supplements, equipment, and veterinary care.
- Industry news and information: Members receive regular updates on industry news, events, and developments, as well as access to a variety of resources and educational materials.
- Awards and recognition: Standardbred Canada offers a variety of awards and recognition programs to its members, including Horse of the Year awards, breeder awards, and owner awards.
Registry
Standardbred Canada maintains the official registry of Standardbred horses in Canada. This includes registering foals, maintaining ownership records, and issuing breeding certificates. The registry is an important tool for breeders and owners, as it provides a comprehensive record of each horse’s pedigree and performance history.
Records
Standardbred Canada maintains a comprehensive database of racing records for Standardbred horses in Canada. This includes information on race results, earnings, and performance statistics. The database is an important resource for breeders, owners, and trainers, as it provides valuable information on the performance of individual horses and their progeny.
In conclusion, Standardbred Canada plays a vital role in promoting and supporting the harness racing and breeding industry in Canada. Its services, membership, registry, and records services are all designed to provide valuable resources and support to industry professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Standardbred Horses: Breed and Characteristics
Standardbred horses are a breed of horse that was developed in the United States for harness racing. They are known for their speed and stamina, which makes them ideal for racing. These horses are also used for pleasure riding, showing, and other equestrian activities.
Breed
Standardbred horses are medium-sized horses that stand between 14 and 16 hands tall. They come in a variety of colours, including bay, chestnut, black, grey, and brown. They have a strong, muscular build and a distinctive head with a broad forehead and large nostrils.
Gait
Standardbred horses are known for their unique gait. They can either trot or pace, depending on their breeding and training. A trotting horse moves its legs in diagonal pairs, while a pacing horse moves its legs on the same side of its body. Pacing is considered faster than trotting, but it can be more difficult to maintain over long distances.
Care
Standardbred horses require regular care to maintain their health and well-being. They need a balanced diet that includes hay, grain, and fresh water. They also need regular exercise and grooming to keep their coat and hooves healthy.
In summary, Standardbred horses are a breed of horse known for their speed and stamina. They can either trot or pace, and they require regular care to maintain their health and well-being.
Information for Trainers and Breeders
Standardbred Canada provides a comprehensive guide for trainers and breeders of Standardbred horses. The guide contains essential information on the best practices for breeding, raising, and training Standardbred horses.
Trainers can benefit from the guide’s information on the latest training techniques and equipment, as well as on how to manage their horses’ health and nutrition. The guide also provides information on the licensing requirements for apprentice trainers, which were announced by the Ontario Racing Commission in January 2012.
Breeders can find valuable information on how to select and breed broodmares and stallions, as well as on how to manage the breeding process. The guide also covers topics such as mare care, foaling, and neonatal care.
In addition to the guide, Standardbred Canada offers a range of services to trainers and breeders. These include a searchable database of Standardbred horses, as well as resources on racing schedules, track conditions, and race results.
Overall, Standardbred Canada’s guide and services provide trainers and breeders with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in the Standardbred industry.
Stake Payments and Financial Transactions
Standardbred Canada offers an online stake payment program designed to simplify the process for owners and trainers. To make a stake payment, owners and trainers must pay the eShop fee listed for each stake payment, which includes the stake fee and administration fee. Owners and trainers must also pay 13% HST on taxable services. Any additional fees charged by the bank or credit card company are the sole responsibility of the owner or trainer.
Standardbred Canada provides a guide to assist owners and trainers in staking their horses with eligibility, payments, purse, and conditions for stakes across Canada included on SC Stakes Online. The guide also includes an alphabetical listing of stakes to select by specific criteria.
In addition to stake payments, Standardbred Canada provides a platform for financial transactions related to the ownership and transfer of horses. Owners can transfer ownership of their horses through the online platform, which requires a transfer fee. Standardbred Canada also offers a listing service for horses for sale or lease.
Standardbred Canada requires all financial transactions to be completed through the online platform, which ensures a secure and efficient process for owners and trainers.
Prominent Standardbred Horses and Personalities
Standardbred horses are known for their speed, stamina, and docile temperament. Over the years, many Standardbred horses and personalities have left their mark on the sport of harness racing. Here are a few of the most prominent ones:
Warrawee Michelle
Warrawee Michelle was a Canadian-bred Standardbred mare who won over $2.5 million in her career. She won numerous stakes races and was named Canada’s Horse of the Year in 2003. Warrawee Michelle was known for her versatility, as she could race at any distance and on any size track.
Gem Quality
Gem Quality was a Standardbred gelding who won over $2 million in his career. He was known for his consistency, as he finished in the money in over 80% of his starts. Gem Quality won numerous stakes races and was named Canada’s Horse of the Year in 1997.
My Girl EJ
My Girl EJ was a Standardbred mare who won over $1.7 million in her career. She was known for her speed and was a multiple-stakes winner. My Girl EJ was also known for her toughness, as she often raced against tough competition.
Karl
Karl was a Standardbred gelding who won over $1.5 million in his career. He was known for his speed and was a multiple-stakes winner. Karl was also known for his versatility, as he could race on any size track.
Jiggy Jog S
Jiggy Jog S was a Standardbred mare who won over $1.2 million in her career. She was known for her speed and was a multiple-stakes winner. Jiggy Jog S was also known for her consistency, as she finished in the money in over 80% of her starts.
Bond
Bond was a Standardbred gelding who won over $1 million in his career. He was known for his speed and was a multiple-stakes winner. Bond was also known for his toughness, as he often raced against tough competition.
Sylvia Hanover
Sylvia Hanover was a Standardbred mare who won over $900,000 in her career. She was known for her speed and was a multiple-stakes winner. Sylvia Hanover was also known for her versatility, as she could race on any size track.
Tactical Approach
Tactical Approach was a Standardbred gelding who won over $800,000 in his career. He was known for his speed and was a multiple-stakes winner. Tactical Approach was also known for his consistency, as he finished in the money in over 70% of his starts.
Max Contract
Max Contract was a Standardbred gelding who won over $700,000 in his career. He was known for his speed and was a multiple-stakes winner. Max Contract was also known for his toughness, as he often raced against tough competition.
Confederate
Confederate was a Standardbred gelding who won over $600,000 in his career. He was known for his speed and was a multiple-stakes winner. Confederate was also known for his versatility, as he could race on any size track.
Southwind Tyrion
Southwind Tyrion is a current Standardbred colt who has already won over $1 million in his career. He is known for his speed and was the winner of the 2021 Hambletonian. Southwind Tyrion is also known for his consistency, as he has finished in the money in all of his starts.
Bythemissal
Bythemissal is a current Standardbred mare who has already won over $500,000 in her career. She is known for her speed and was the winner of the 2021 Jugette. Bythemissal is also known for her toughness, as she often races against tough competition.
Standardbred Racing and Tracks
Standardbred Canada is the national governing body for harness racing in Canada. Harness racing, also known as Standardbred racing, is a form of horse racing where horses race while pulling a two-wheeled cart called a sulky.
Several racetracks across Canada host Standardbred racing events. These tracks offer a variety of racing events throughout the year, ranging from daily races to major stakes races. Some of the most popular tracks include Century Downs, Fraser Downs, and The Meadowlands.
Each track has its unique characteristics, including track surface, track size, and the types of races that are offered. For example, The Meadowlands is a one-mile track with a clay and sand surface, while Fraser Downs is a five-eighths-mile track with a limestone surface.
To ensure the safety of both horses and drivers, each track has a set of rules and regulations that must be followed. These rules cover everything from the types of equipment that can be used to the maximum allowable speed of the horses.
Overall, Standardbred racing is a thrilling and exciting sport that has a rich history in Canada. With a variety of tracks and races to choose from, there is something for everyone who enjoys the thrill of the race.
Major Events and Auctions
Standardbred Canada is home to several major events and auctions throughout the year. These events bring together breeders, owners, and enthusiasts from all over the world to showcase the best of the Standardbred breed. Here are some of the most notable events and auctions:
London Selected Yearling Sale
The London Selected Yearling Sale is one of the most prestigious auctions in the Standardbred industry. Held annually in London, Ontario, the sale features some of the finest yearlings in North America. In 2023, Stonebridge Alien topped the opening day of the sale, selling for $135,000. The sale is a must-attend event for anyone looking to purchase a top-quality Standardbred.
Auctions
Standardbred Canada also hosts several auctions throughout the year, including the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society (OSAS) stallion auction. This auction features some of the top stallions in the industry and is a great opportunity for breeders to acquire top-quality breeding stock.
The Standardbred Retirement Foundation (SRF) also holds an annual online auction, featuring over 100 breedings for purchase. This auction is a great opportunity for breeders to acquire top-quality breedings at a reasonable price.
Other Events
In addition to auctions, Standardbred Canada also hosts several other events throughout the year. One of the most notable is the Standardbred Horse Sale, a five-day auction featuring yearlings, broodmares, and broodmare prospects. Another notable event is the Ontario Sires Stakes Super Final, which features the best Ontario-sired Standardbreds in the industry.
Overall, Standardbred Canada is home to some of the most prestigious events and auctions in the Standardbred industry. Whether you’re a breeder, owner, or enthusiast, these events are a must-attend for anyone looking to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the industry.
Standardbred Canada: The Future and Revisions
Standardbred Canada is committed to providing the best possible service to its members. As such, the organization is constantly looking for ways to improve its operations and services. In recent years, Standardbred Canada has significantly changed its rules and regulations to better serve its members.
One of the most significant changes made by Standardbred Canada is the introduction of the Integrity Policy. This policy is designed to ensure that all members of the organization are held to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. The policy includes strict guidelines for conduct and a code of ethics that all members must adhere to.
In addition to the Integrity Policy, Standardbred Canada has also made revisions to its rules and regulations. These revisions have been made in response to feedback from members and are designed to make the organization more efficient and effective.
Standardbred Canada is also looking to the future. The organization is committed to staying at the forefront of the industry and is constantly exploring new technologies and methods to improve its services. One area of focus for Standardbred Canada is the use of digital technologies to streamline registration and certification processes. The organization is also exploring the use of blockchain technology to create a more secure and transparent registration certificate system.
Overall, Standardbred Canada is committed to providing the best possible service to its members. Through revisions to its rules and regulations and a focus on the future, the organization is well-positioned to continue to serve the Standardbred community for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who holds the record for the fastest mile by a Standardbred racehorse?
The current world record for the fastest mile by a Standardbred racehorse is held by the horse, Always B Miki, who ran a mile in 1:46 in 2016. The record was set at the Red Mile in Lexington, Kentucky, USA.
What are the characteristics of a successful Standardbred racehorse?
Successful Standardbred racehorses are known for their speed, stamina, and athleticism. They have a muscular build, with a long, sloping shoulder and powerful hindquarters. They are also known for their calm temperament, which allows them to handle the stress of racing.
What is the average height and weight of a Standardbred?
The average height of a Standardbred is between 14 and 16 hands (56 to 64 inches) at the withers, and they typically weigh between 450 and 1,000 kilograms (1,000 to 2,200 pounds).
What are some common health issues that affect Standardbred horses?
Like all horses, Standardbreds can be affected by a variety of health issues, including respiratory problems, digestive disorders, and lameness. Some common health issues that affect Standardbred horses include colic, respiratory infections, and joint problems.
How is the breeding of Standardbred horses regulated in Canada?
The breeding of Standardbred horses in Canada is regulated by Standardbred Canada, a non-profit organization that oversees the registration and breeding of Standardbred horses. Standardbred Canada maintains a studbook of all registered horses and sets breeding standards and guidelines for breeders.
What is the history of Standardbred horse racing in Canada?
Standardbred horse racing has a long history in Canada, dating back to the late 1800s. The first official Standardbred race in Canada was held in 1877 at the York Fairgrounds in Toronto. Since then, Standardbred racing has grown in popularity and is now a major sport in Canada, with races held at tracks nationwide.
