Ontario racing regulators and Woodbine Entertainment have reached a pivotal settlement after a series of catastrophic horse fatalities in late 2024 shocked the racing community.
Tragedy Sparks Investigation
Between October and December 2024, 19 horses suffered serious injuries during races or training sessions at Woodbine Racetrack’s Tapeta surface, leading to 10 being euthanized. The alarming cluster of incidents — including three fatalities in a single day — prompted the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) to launch a full investigation into track safety and operational practices.
According to the AGCO’s findings, Woodbine’s surface maintenance fell short of industry standards. Problems included inconsistent surface depth checks, poorly maintained equipment, and a lack of experienced maintenance personnel — all of which may have contributed to unsafe racing conditions.
Terms of the Settlement
Under the agreement, Woodbine must:
- Hire two internationally recognized surface safety experts to audit the track quarterly over two years.
- Establish a Track Surfaces Committee, including representatives from the Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association and the Jockey’s Benefit Association of Canada.
- Submit to board-level oversight on surface-related decisions.
- Risk a $200,000 financial penalty for non-compliance.
Additionally, Woodbine pledged a $200,000 donation toward equine aftercare organizations like the LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society and the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
Proactive Steps Already Taken
Prior to the settlement, Woodbine began upgrading track protocols by:
- Hiring a seasoned racetrack maintenance specialist.
- Investing in an Integrated Racetrack Surface Tester to monitor critical track conditions.
- Regrading portions of the track for better drainage and consistency.
A Broader Regulatory Shift
The AGCO is also planning sweeping reforms, including tougher veterinary monitoring and stricter race scheduling policies. This settlement not only marks a significant reckoning for Canada’s premier racetrack but also signals a new era of safety-first policies in Ontario’s horse racing industry.
