Ontario regulators, Woodbine reach settlement following 2024 equine injuries

ETOBICOKE, Ontario – The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and Woodbine Entertainment have finalized a settlement agreement following an AGCO investigation into a series of equine injuries in fall 2024.

Between Oct. 28 and Dec. 15, 2024,19 horses sustained injuries while racing or training on Woodbine’s all-weather Tapeta surface. Ten of those injuries resulted in euthanasia, including three on Nov. 9.

The AGCO’s investigation concluded that Woodbine’s track maintenance practices were inadequate and inconsistent with manufacturer guidelines. Key issues identified included substandard grooming practices and irregular surface-depth measurements, the absence of standardized maintenance protocols, and improperly maintained track equipment.

Tapeta is recognized as one of the safest racing surfaces in the industry when properly maintained and has an exemplary safety record. Woodbine has historically maintained one of the strongest safety records among North American racetracks. The measures now being implemented are designed to ensure that this standard is reinforced.

Woodbine has agreed to a set of enforceable actions aimed at improving track maintenance practices and protecting the welfare of horses, including retaining two internationally recognized track-safety experts to conduct quarterly safety assessments of the Tapeta and the establishment of a track surfaces committee.

Failure to comply with these measures by Woodbine will result in regulatory actions being taken by the AGCO, including a $200,000 fine. As part of the agreement, Woodbine Entertainment also will make a $200,000 donation to support equine aftercare and welfare in Ontario, with equal contributions to the LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society and the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.

Woodbine Entertainment has already undertaken significant reforms and investments to enhance track safety, including the comprehensive training of the racing surfaces team by experts in the field and the acquisition of advanced track maintenance equipment.

Additionally, the AGCO is establishing broader enhancements to the Rules of Racing, including strengthened veterinary oversight and increased scrutiny of horses returning from the vet’s list.

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