The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has finalized a settlement with Woodbine Entertainment following an investigation into a series of horse-related incidents that occurred on Woodbine’s all-weather Tapeta racing surface in late 2024.
Incidents Prompt Regulatory Action
Between October 28 and December 15, 2024, 19 thoroughbred racehorses sustained injuries during training and racing sessions on Woodbine’s Tapeta surface. Tragically, ten of these injuries necessitated euthanasia. Notably, November 9 saw a particularly alarming spike, with six horses suffering breakdowns, three of which required euthanasia.
Given the Tapeta surface’s reputation as one of the safest in the industry, these incidents raised serious concerns and prompted the AGCO to launch an investigation. The regulator determined that Woodbine’s track maintenance during 2024 was inadequate, citing major issues such as:
- Substandard grooming practices.
- Irregular measurement of surface depth.
- Lack of experienced maintenance staff.
- Absence of standardized maintenance protocols.
- Poorly maintained track equipment.
Settlement and Remediation Measures
Woodbine Entertainment has agreed to implement extensive measures to enhance track safety and comply with AGCO requirements:
- Independent Oversight: Woodbine will engage two experienced track safety experts to evaluate the Tapeta surface. These experts will provide their findings to Woodbine and the AGCO.
- Governance Enhancement: A Track Surfaces Committee will be formed, consisting of experts tasked with monitoring safety and recommending improvements.
- Board-Level Oversight: Woodbine’s governance and compliance committee, under its board of directors, will supervise the Track Surfaces Committee.
Failure to adhere to these measures may result in a CAD 200,000 fine.
Commitment to Equine Welfare
As part of the settlement, Woodbine Entertainment will also donate CAD 200,000 to support equine aftercare and welfare in Ontario. The funds will be evenly distributed between the LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society and the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
Voluntary Initiatives by Woodbine
In addition to regulatory mandates, Woodbine has begun implementing voluntary improvements:
- Training programs for its Racing Surfaces team.
- Recruitment of skilled track maintenance specialists.
- Acquisition of advanced maintenance equipment.
- Installation of an integrated racetrack surface tester to monitor moisture, temperature, and cushion depth.
- Renovation of sections of the track and updates to maintenance protocols.
AGCO Enhancements to Rules of Racing
The AGCO has also strengthened its Rules of Racing, introducing:
- Enhanced veterinary oversight.
- Increased scrutiny of horses returning from the vet’s list.
- Updated guidance for therapeutic treatments.
These comprehensive measures aim to ensure the safety and welfare of racehorses while fostering confidence in Ontario’s racing industry.
