Harness racing's future takes centre stage at world conference

The future of international harness racing, equine welfare, industry integrity, global promotion and emerging technology were among the key topics addressed as delegates from around the world gathered in Christchurch, New Zealand, for the 2026 World Trotting Conference (WTC). The conference brought together representatives of member nations of the International Trotting Association (ITA) to discuss shared challenges, opportunities and the future direction of the sport.

For Canada, the conference provided an important opportunity to strengthen its international presence, expand the reach of its racing and breeding programs, and advance meaningful cooperation in areas such as data exchange, cross-promotion, wagering and regulatory development.

“The World Trotting Conference was very productive,” said Darryl Kaplan, President and CEO of Standardbred Canada. “The industry is global, and collaboration and cooperation have never been more important. We face shared challenges and opportunities, and the need to work together as an international racing community has never been clearer.”

Canada was also front and centre as it prepares to host the 2027 World Driving Championship and Standardbred Canada National Equine Tour from Aug. 12–22, 2027. Several ITA member nations have already committed to participating, with driver announcements expected in the coming months. Events will take place across four provinces: Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and Prince Edward Island.

“Hosting these events in 2027 is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the strength and spirit of Canada’s horse racing industry on the world stage,” said Kaplan. “From our passionate horsepeople to our leading racetracks, breeding farms and educational facilities, Canada has an extraordinary story to share. We experienced the incredible passion for racing in New Zealand and are excited to welcome the international racing community to Canada next.”

Canadian Leadership on ITA Standing Committees

Standardbred Canada will play a significant leadership role in the ITA’s ongoing work, with representatives appointed to chair two of the five Standing Committees established to address key industry priorities.

Linda Bedard, Standardbred Canada’s Registrar, was appointed Chair of the Equine Health and Integrity Committee, while Kaplan was appointed Chair of the Marketing and Business Development Committee.

The five Standing Committees addressed several important areas affecting the future of international harness racing:

– Equine Health and Integrity Committee: Chaired by Bedard, discussions focused on horse welfare, genetic testing, equine identification, track safety and the development of consistent international standards. The committee also addressed protecting people working in the industry from harassment and abuse, along with greater cooperation on equine regulations.

– Marketing and Business Development Committee: Chaired by Kaplan, the committee focused on expanding the international profile of harness racing, growing markets, attracting new audiences and creating greater commercial opportunities. One significant initiative involves developing a proposed international ranking system for Standardbred trotters, with Canada coordinating the work. Discussions also included international promotional opportunities and ways to further elevate the profile of the World Driving Championship.

– Racing and Wagering Committee: Discussions addressed international racing rules, opportunities to expand wagering and the potential development of international betting pools.

– Breeding Committee: The committee explored opportunities to improve international cooperation on genetic identification, registration and the exchange of breeding information.

– Constitution and Regulations Committee: The committee presented several updates that were subsequently approved by the General Assembly. Canada was formally confirmed as host of the 2027 World Driving Championship, with the event’s rules and regulations ratified. Italy was confirmed as host of the 2029 World Trotting Conference and World Driving Championship, while the United States is scheduled to host both events in 2031.

The conference also coincided with one of the biggest occasions on the New Zealand harness racing calendar: the prestigious New Zealand Trotting Cup at Addington Raceway. Australian superstar Leap To Fame delivered a memorable performance to capture the Nov. 10 classic, providing a fitting highlight to an exciting week celebrating international harness racing.

 

From Standardbred Canada