2021 Woodbine Thoroughbred Update from Jessica Buckley

January 15, 2021
Dear Horse People,
In light of the further restrictions implemented this week in Ontario, we wanted to let you know that there are no changes to the opening of the Woodbine Backstretch at this time. As the current government restrictions explicitly allow for the training of racehorses, the Woodbine Backstretch activities will resume as planned and communicated in the year-end letter you received in December 2020. Please see key dates below:
- Friday, January 29, 2021 – Stall applications due
- Monday, February 22, 2021 – Backstretch re-opens for set-up
- Wednesday, February 24, 2021 – Horses begin shipping in
- Thursday, February 25, 2021 – Sand Ring and Training Track open- weather permitting
- Saturday, March 2021 – Main Track opens – weather permitting and date TBD based on spring thaw
- Saturday, April 17, 2021 – Scheduled Opening Day
Thank you for your cooperation in complying with all COVID-19 safety protocols. Your commitment kept us operating safely in 2020 and we will continue to comply with all COVID-19 safety protocols as we return to activity in 2021.
Opening Day is still anticipated for Saturday, April 17, 2021 but it is contingent on the Government and provincial health officials easing the restrictions to permit horse racing without spectators in Ontario and the region of Toronto. We appreciate that many trainers and owners will be making decisions on when to ship-in based on the start date for the season. We will do our very best to keep you informed as possible and make you aware of any changes to this schedule in a timely manner.
The Thoroughbred Race Office and Stall Office are operating with limited access. At this time, please use the following direct contact information for any inquires. We will respond to all inquiries as soon as possible.
Race Office: Scott Lane – sLane@woodbine.com or 416-458-1678
Stakes: Julia Bell – jab@woodbine.com or 416-523-5588
Stabling Operations: Tim Lawson – tlawson@woodbine.com or 289-968-0875, Tamara Dadswell- tdadswell@woodbine.com or (905) 783- 5514
I hope you and your horses are well, and we look forward to the first van arriving back in February.
Stay well,
Jessica