Set in Stone: Woodbine Ent. Commences Live Racing in June

Woodbine Entertainment received a green light from Ontario’s government to commence live horse racing on June 5. Woodbine Mohawk Park is about to pioneer live racing part of the 2020 live season at the beginning of June, closely followed by Woodbine Racetrack commencing the live events on June 6. Horse racing across Ontario is now among the activities that could recommence operation as soon as they are ready.

This week is a special one as major changes are about to be introduced as a result of the recent conversations. The provincial government is ready to greenlight the program aiming to reopen businesses across Ontario and give them a chance to make the summer months a successful period. The first stage of the plan could see changes coming Tuesday.

June 5

Ontario government recently made it clear that the first stage of this process is about to include the reopening of construction projects, seasonal activities, retail locations outside of shopping malls, as well as outdoor recreational activities would have the approval to recommence on May 19. This first phase of the reopening plan also includes horse racing without spectators on the premises of the racetracks.

• Woodbine Racetrack Sees Changes Come May 13

Ontario Premier Doug Ford pointed out that the businesses should participate in the reopening only if they are ready for it and they have implemented the respective measures for health protection. Both staff members and customers should feel safe when making purchases and participate in outdoor activities. For the time being, the start of the second phase of this reopening plan has not been pinpointed.

• Woodbine CEO Projects June Live Horse Racing

Woodbine Entertainment’s two racetracks would not be ready to commence operation on May 19, but the horse racing leader is about to stick to the previously highlighted plan for action. June 5 and June 6 are about to see the return of live horse racing in Ontario and local enthusiasts would have the chance to watch the races live online.

Live Horse Racing

Social distancing is still the recommended practice, as protection is important which is why both Woodbine Mohawk Park and Woodbine Racetrack are projected to commence their 2020 live schedule without spectators. Such a move is expected to support the local horse people relying on the income, the purses associated with live racing, as well as the wagers players place during those races.

• Woodbine Racetrack Continues Work Despite COVID-19

Earlier this week, Jim Lawson, Chief Executive Officer of the horse racing leader, stated that Woodbine Entertainment is in conversations with the provincial government for the relaunch of live horse racing in June. Now he pointed out that the good news provides relief for the horse people.

• Woodbine Ent. Touts Hefty Handles within 2019 Live Season

Including horse racing in the first stage of this reopening plan also indicates that the government prioritizes this local field and it has listened to the horse people. Woodbine Racetrack was supposed to see the beginning of the 2020 season on April 18, but it was postponed. The backstretch of the racetrack was active, as racehorses were taken care of in preparation for the eventual live events. May 22 is about to greenlight Thoroughbred training, whereas May 27 would see Standardbred training.