Ontario Horse Racing Authority Issues Two-Year Suspension to Trainer Over Animal Abuse Allegations

The Ontario Horse Racing Authority has imposed a two-year suspension on horse trainer Anthony Beaton following accusations of animal abuse. Worries arose regarding the welfare of a young horse under Beaton’s supervision. This triggered an inquiry leading to the prompt revocation of Beaton’s license, effective until October 12, 2025. The authority emphasized that the honesty of horse racing depends on the dedication to both equine and human well-being, stressing that all participants, especially those entrusted with the horses’ care, must be held to the utmost standards. Beaton retains the right to contest this ruling. The allegations against him encompass actions harmful to the best interests of racing and, more significantly, inhumane or irresponsible handling of a horse.

A juvenile equine experienced harsh treatment involving a whip at the hands of its handler, who is presently under scrutiny for alleged maltreatment of animals. The trainer purportedly crossed the line, employing the whip to an excessive degree on the helpless animal, a mere two-year-old. Such mistreatment constitutes a grave violation of animal welfare regulations.

In separate developments, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) recently imposed a substantial financial penalty of $150,000 on PointsBet, a wagering enterprise based in Canada. It appears they deviated from established protocols and were discovered engaging in multiple infractions.