In a move to ensure the well-being of its equine athletes and jockeys, Woodbine Racetrack has made the difficult decision to cancel its scheduled race card for Sunday. This precautionary measure comes after two horses were injured and subsequently euthanized during Saturday's races, and a third horse tragically passed away during morning workouts.

Safeguarding the Sport: Woodbine's Commitment to Equine and Rider Safety

Thorough Track Evaluation and Maintenance

Woodbine's executive team has initiated a comprehensive review of the track conditions, working closely with their Tapeta consultants to identify and address any potential issues. This process involves a thorough inspection of the all-weather main track, which has led to the suspension of training activities on Sunday morning. The racetrack's management is dedicated to ensuring that the surface meets the highest safety standards before allowing any further racing or training to resume.

Collaborative Approach with Industry Partners

The decision to cancel Sunday's races was made in consultation with key industry stakeholders, including the Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, the Jockeys' Guild, and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. By engaging these partners, Woodbine demonstrates its commitment to a collaborative approach to safeguarding the sport and its participants.

Prioritizing Equine and Rider Safety

Bill Ford, the executive vice president of racing at Woodbine, emphasized the racetrack's unwavering focus on the safety of its horses and jockeys. "The safety of our horses and jockeys is always our highest priority," he stated. Woodbine's reputation as one of the safest racetracks in North America is a testament to its dedication to maintaining the highest safety standards, and the current measures are a reflection of this commitment.

Ongoing Monitoring and Transparency

Woodbine has pledged to provide regular updates on the progress of their track maintenance and safety assessments. The racetrack's management is committed to resuming training and racing activities only when they are confident that the track conditions meet the necessary safety requirements. This transparent approach ensures that the racing community and the public are informed of the steps being taken to protect the well-being of the horses and jockeys.

Upholding the Integrity of the Sport

By prioritizing safety and taking decisive action, Woodbine demonstrates its unwavering commitment to the integrity of the sport of horse racing. The racetrack's decision to cancel races and thoroughly investigate the track conditions sends a clear message that the well-being of the equine athletes and their human counterparts is of paramount importance. This proactive stance reinforces Woodbine's reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking leader in the industry.