Rideau Carleton Casino Begins Construction on New Paddock Ahead of 63rd Racing Season

Rideau Carleton Casino future Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa has officially begun construction on a brand-new paddock at the Raceway, with completion expected by summer 2025. The restoration of this essential facility, which was destroyed in a fire in February 2023, underscores Hard Rock Ottawa’s commitment to preserving the legacy of harness racing in the region.

The construction comes just in time for the highly anticipated 63rd racing season, kicking off on March 23, 2025 and running through December 14, 2025. As the only Hard Rock property worldwide to offer live harness racing, Hard Rock Ottawa continues to stand out as a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination.

“We are all looking forward to the opening of Rideau Carleton Raceway’s 63rd season of horseracing featuring last year’s O’Brien winning Canadian horseman of the year, Guy Gagnon. It should be another exciting year with a series of special events including the return of Ontario Sires Stakes on Sunday, August 24 and the annual Coville Cup. Restoration of our backstretch paddock should be completed and available by the summer. Catch all the action starting Sunday, March 23rd,” said Peter Andrusek, Manager of Racetrack Operations.

The new paddock will reflect the rich tradition and history of harness racing that began in 1962 at the historic Rideau Carleton Raceway, the only harness racing facility in Eastern Ontario and the oldest in the country. Modernized facilities will improve and enhance the racing experience for participants, staff and spectators alike, while growing the sport's appeal in Ottawa and beyond.

Fans and racing enthusiasts can view the full Racing Calendar and stay updated with the latest events and race programs through the Programs & Archives portal.

For more information and updates, visit www.rideaucarletoncasino.com.

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About Hard Rock®

"Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 74 countries spanning 313 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. Its Unity by Hard Rock™ global loyalty program rewards members for doing the things they love across participating properties around the world. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 88,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe.

HRI became the first privately-owned gaming company designated a U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal in 2021 and has since been honored fourfold. Hard Rock was also honored by Forbes among the World's Best Employers, as well as Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming and Entertainment Industry. In the 2022 Global Gaming Awards, Hard Rock was named Land-Based Operator of the Year for the second time in four years.

Hard Rock International currently holds investment grades from primary investment-grade rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB-) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

About Rideau Carleton Casino (Future Home of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa)

Rideau Carleton Casino officially opened as Rideau Carleton Raceway in 1962, as Canada’s first-ever five-eighths mile oval and has been a key part of Ontario’s harness racing community ever since. Since the addition of gaming in February 2000, the City of Ottawa has received approximately $6 million annually and more than $106 million in total payments for hosting Rideau Carleton Casino within the National Capital Region. Rideau Carleton Casino also invests in multiple local sponsorships and nonprofits annually, benefiting the community and residents.

With eager anticipation of the opening of the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, Rideau Carleton Casino remains open 24/7, ready to serve their guests with the same dedication and excitement. In May 2017, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) selected Hard Rock International as the successful new casino partner for this site. Hard Rock is working to build a new state-of-the-art entertainment facility that will soon bring the iconic Hard Rock brand to Ottawa and enliven the city like never before. Future amenities will include a contemporary hotel design with 150 rooms, including 22 suites, expanded gaming floor including 1,500 slot machines, 40 live-action table games, and high-limit gaming. Guests can enjoy more than 10 restaurants, bars, and lounges, including the iconic Hard Rock Cafe and Council Oak Steakhouse. The resort will also be home to the classic Rock Shop, a 1,800 plus seat Hard Rock Live venue, and authentic music memorabilia.

The facility is a significant driver of job creation and is expected to employ over 700 local residents once the expansion is completed. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa will continue the tradition of community investment through local sponsorships and nonprofit partnerships, enhancing the lives of residents and visitors alike.

Rideau Carleton Casino is operated by Hard Rock International and governed by Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). With OLG partnership, Rideau Carleton Casino demonstrates a daily commitment to responsible gambling with full implementation of OLG’s PlaySmart program and is recognized through the RG Check accreditation program.

For more information on Rideau Carleton Casino, visit rideaucarletoncasino.com. To learn more about the upcoming Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, visit hardrockottawa.com.

Media Contact

Mary Jelley
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613-791-6703