Woodbine Entertainment, a leading horse racing organization, has taken decisive action to ensure the safety and well-being of its equine athletes and jockeys. Following a series of catastrophic breakdowns during a race day on Saturday, November 10th, the track has cancelled all training and racing activities for the following day as a precautionary measure.

Ensuring the Highest Standards of Safety at Woodbine

Tragic Incidents Prompt Immediate Action

The decision to cancel Sunday's events came after three devastating incidents occurred on the previous day. During morning workouts, an unnamed horse suffered a breakdown, while in the second race, the 3-year-old filly Social Dancer (Society's Chairman) took an awkward step and had to be euthanized. The most tragic event unfolded in the GIII Bessarabian Stakes, where the 6-year-old mare Owen's Tour Guide (Tourist) took a wrong step at the quarter pole and fell, leading to her euthanization.

Collaborative Efforts to Prioritize Safety

Woodbine's management team, in consultation with key industry partners, including the Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA), the Jockeys' Guild, and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, made the decision to cancel the remaining races and suspend all training activities. This proactive approach demonstrates Woodbine's commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety for both horses and jockeys.

Thorough Track Maintenance and Condition Review

Woodbine is currently undertaking a comprehensive review of the track conditions, working closely with their consultants to identify and address any potential issues. This process involves extensive track maintenance, with the goal of ensuring that the surface meets the highest safety standards before any further racing or training activities resume.

Upholding Woodbine's Reputation for Safety

Woodbine has long been recognized as one of the safest racetracks in North America, and the organization is determined to maintain this reputation. Bill Ford, the executive vice president of racing at Woodbine, emphasized the track's unwavering commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of its equine and human participants.

Ongoing Updates and Transparency

Woodbine has pledged to provide regular updates on the progress of their track maintenance and condition review efforts. The track will only resume training and racing activities when it is deemed safe to do so, ensuring that the highest safety standards are met and maintained.

Fostering a Culture of Safety in the Sport

The incidents at Woodbine serve as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks involved in the sport of horse racing. By taking decisive action and collaborating with industry partners, Woodbine is setting an example for the broader racing community, underscoring the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all participants.