TORONTO, October 19, 2023– Woodbine Entertainment has released its 2022-2023 Corporate Responsibility Report, with this year’s theme focused on “honouring our past, building our future”. The Report highlights several of the organization’s accomplishments and initiatives in its journey to build on its position as one of North America’s leading Thoroughbred and Standardbred racetrack operators.
The Report also coincides with the completion of Woodbine’s leadership transition on October 1st, which includes Michael Copeland appointed as CEO and Jim Lawson transitioning into his new role as Executive Chair of Woodbine Entertainment’s Board of Directors.
“The 2022-2023 Corporate Responsibility Report really showcases the aspirations and successes that Woodbine has had under Jim’s leadership,” said Woodbine Entertainment CEO Michael Copeland. “Throughout his eight years as CEO, he’s been a tremendous champion for several initiatives that have strengthened our organization, benefitted the industry, and positioned us as a good neighbour within our Rexdale community. I’m looking forward to continuing to build on the foundation he helped build and take our business, industry and sport to new heights.”
Some of the many accomplishments highlighted in the Report that Woodbine has made over the last year include:
- Surpassing $1 billion in all-sources wagering across Woodbine Racetrack and Woodbine Mohawk Park for the first time. As an organization that operates like a not-for-profit, the revenue from Woodbine’s handle funds its operations, as well as its ability to invest in various strategic initiatives to sustain and grow the horse racing industry in Ontario.
- Releasing the Woodbine Community Plan, which outlines the organization’s vision to develop nearly 400 acres of our 684 acres of property and bring much-needed mixed-use and affordable housing and mass transit to the Rexdale community. The plan will also lead to the creation 17,000 jobs, upgrade the already world-class racing and training facilities, and further support the province’s racing industry.
- Becoming the first racetrack in North America to partner with the You Can Play project which aims to make horse racing more inclusive.
- Continuing to operate one of the safest Thoroughbred racetracks in North America.
“While this year’s report coincides with my final year as CEO at Woodbine, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish,” said Woodbine Entertainment Executive Chair Jim Lawson. “Our organization has grown into a dynamic player in the world of racing and entertainment, and I’m confident Michael and the entire Woodbine team will continue to bring the thrill of horse racing to fans for years to come”.
The full 2022-2023 Corporate Responsibility Report can be viewed here.
About Woodbine Entertainment
Woodbine Entertainment is an Ontario corporation that operates without share capital with the mandate of supporting and growing the horse racing industry and the 25,000 jobs it supports across the province. Woodbine Entertainment is the largest horse racing operator in Canada offering world-class horse racing at both Woodbine (Toronto) and Woodbine Mohawk Park (Milton) racetracks. Woodbine Entertainment also operates off-track wagering through its Champions teletheatre network, which includes WEGZ Stadium Bar in Vaughan and Greenwood in the Beach area of Toronto. Remote wagering is also available to customers through HPIbet.com and the Dark Horse Bets app.
