Woodbine simulcasting closed due to coronavirus; Mohawk harness meet will continue without spectators

ETOBICOKE, Ontario - Woodbine Entertainment has announced that it will be close Woodbine Racetrack and Woodbine Mohawk Park to the general public for a minimum of two weeks beginning Sunday due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Woodbine had been open for simulcast wagering and Mohawk is in the midst of a live harness meet, which will continue.

“We strongly believe that closing our racetracks to the public is the right thing to do for the well-being of our employees, customers and horsepeople,” said Jim Lawson, CEO of Woodbine Entertainment. “We also recognize that we all have a role to play in slowing down the spread of this virus to protect the larger community. We will continue to work closely with public health officials and make decisions that are consistent with health and safety being our highest priority.”

The decision to close these facilities to the pubic follows the recommendation of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. David Williams, for the suspension of all large events and public gatherings due to Covid-19.

Woodbine Entertainment’s live harness racing at Mohawk Park will continue as scheduled, but without spectators. Only essential staff, licensed horsepeople and regulators will be permitted in the facility. As an additional precaution, Woodbine Entertainment is screening all horsepeople entering the paddock, which will also have highly restricted access for licensed personnel only.

Plans to open the Thoroughbred season at Woodbine remain as scheduled for April 18 but are subject to an ongoing assessment of the situation. Currently, the training facilities at Woodbine Racetrack will remain open with screening for all horsepeople entering the backstretch and restricted access to licensed personnel only.

Woodbine Entertainment does not operate the casinos in either of its properties. Currently, Elements Casino at Woodbine Mohawk Park and Casino Woodbine at Woodbine Racetrack remain open. Any updates will be provided directly from the operators of the casinos.