Woodbine, Ontario HBPA agree on 2-year deal

Woodbine Entertainment and the Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association of Ontario announced Wednesday that they have reached an agreement in principle on a new two-year deal that boosts purses by $5.7 million. The new agreement commits $64.7 million in purses in 2025 and $65 million in 2026, both with 128-day race meets.

The 2025 meet begins Saturday, April 26, and concludes on Sunday, Dec. 14.

“We are very pleased to have reached this agreement with the HBPA that increases purses for our racing community, even as the industry continues to face significant challenges and headwinds,” Woodbine Entertainment CEO Michael Copeland said. “We understand and appreciate that many horsepeople are facing tough economic circumstances during these uncertain times. At the same time, we remain focused on meaningful strategic initiatives aimed at driving long-term growth and sustainability. Our sole mandate is to support a vibrant horse racing industry in Ontario, and we will continue working hard toward a stronger future for our sport and its participants.”

HBPA president Sue Leslie was ecstatic with the new agreement, which took months to hammer out.

"Reaching an agreement allows our horsepeople to plan and move forward,” Leslie said. “The 128 racing days and the purse increase provides needed stability for our members, and while there is always more work to be done, we believe that this is a necessary and positive step forward for racing in Ontario. We thank Woodbine for engaging in a very difficult but respectful negotiation with HBPA. We embrace open dialogue with Woodbine and remain hopeful for the future. Thank you to our owners and trainers for their patience and support.”

Woodbine’s stakes schedule will be announced shortly, headed by the $1 million King’s Plate on Aug. 16.

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