Woodbine Racecourse stands as a beacon of Canada’s horse racing heritage, tracing its origins back to 1956 when it first opened its gates in Toronto. Since then, it has evolved into one of North America’s most prestigious racing venues. The track’s name pays homage to the native woodbine plant, which flourishes abundantly in the area.

Woodbine Racecourse draws top-tier jockeys, trainers, and horses from around the globe for its slate of marquee races. Established in 1860, The King’s Plate is Canada’s oldest continuously run stakes race for Thoroughbreds. It holds a place of honor as the first jewel in the Canadian Triple Crown. Other top races drawing both North American and European horses include the Woodbine Mile and Canadian International.  

Many famous horses have raced at Woodbine, but Canadian-bred Northern Dancer is surely the most notable. Northern Dancer’s crowning achievement came in 1964 when he won the Kentucky Derby – the first Canadian-bred to do so – along with the Preakness Stakes and the Queen's Plate.