Woodbine Racetrack Stakes Calendar Schedule

Woodbine Racetrack Racing & Track History

Woodbine Racetrack, located in Toronto, Canada, is the vision of Edward Plunket "E.P." Taylor, who became director of the Ontario Jockey Club in 1947. Constructed on 780 acres in the Township of Etobicoke, the track first opened in 1956 with a one-mile dirt track and a seven-eighths of a mile turf course.

In 1994, Woodbine became the first North American track to hold Thoroughbred racing in the day and Standardbred racing at night. To do so, a new seven-eighths of a mile Harness track, a one-mile Thoroughbred dirt track and a 1 ½-mile turf course – named the E.P. Taylor Turf Course after the track's founder – were constructed.

Just two years later it became the first, and to date only, track outside of the United States to host the Breeders' Cup.

Woodbine is home to the Queen's Plate, North America's oldest continuously run stakes race and Canada's equivalent of the Kentucky Derby. The race name switches between "Queen's Plate" and "King's Plate" depending on the current ruling English monarch. The race celebrates its 156th running on July 5, 2015, and has seen in attendance Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness Prince Philip on multiple occasions.

Woodbine has provided a picturesque background to many of racing's elite, including breed-shaping sire Northern Dancer, who became the first Canadian-bred to win the Kentucky Derby, and of course the immortal Secretariat, who closed out his career with victory in the Canadian International Championship in 1973.

Currently, Woodbine still sports a one-mile main track, though the dirt has been switched out for synthetic Polytrack, its famed E.P. Taylor Turf Course, and the Standardbred track.

Woodbine boasts a seating capacity of 12,000, though the largest recorded attendance came to 42,243, and a parking capacity of 14,700. Admission and general parking are free, and there are several dining options available on track. 

The Woodbine Racetrack Grandstand Experience

Woodbine Racetrack FAQ

Discover essential tips and information on Woodbine Racetrack, from race schedules to expert picks, in the FAQs below.

1. What are the best bets for Woodbine Racetrack?

The best bets at Woodbine Racetrack can be found through expert handicappers and platforms like Twinspires. We provide insights on top-performing horses based on thorough analysis, helping you make informed wagering decisions.

2. Where can I find Woodbine Racetrack race entries?

Woodbine Racetrack race entries are available on the official Woodbine website and through Twinspires. These entries provide comprehensive details, including horse names, jockeys, trainers, and odds for each race.

3. How can I access Woodbine Racetrack picks?

Woodbine Racetrack picks are accessible through expert racing analysts and Twinspires. These picks are based on a deep analysis of race conditions, horse performance, and other key factors to guide your betting strategy.

4. What are Woodbine Racetrack's operating hours?

Woodbine Racetrack operates on scheduled race days, with gates typically opening a few hours before the first race. For specific operating hours, refer to the Woodbine Racetrack website or Twinspires.

5. Can I buy tickets online for Woodbine Racetrack?

Yes, tickets for Woodbine Racetrack can be purchased online via the official Woodbine website. Online ticketing allows for an easy selection of seating options and ensures you avoid long lines on race day.