Woodbine Entertainment Celebrates Racing Directors Megan Walker and Martha Wakely

TORONTO, March 31, 2025— Throughout horse racing history, women have made invaluable contributions to advancing the sport, from breaking barriers as jockeys and trainers to influencing its development as owners and breeders. Respected figures like Woodbine Entertainment’s Megan Walker and Martha Wakely have played pivotal roles in reshaping the industry and inspiring future generations.

Though their respective careers at Woodbine focus on different breeds – Walker with the Standardbred division and Wakely with the Thoroughbred division – both share a deep passion for horse racing that has driven their careers.

On March 24, Walker was promoted to Director, Standardbred Racing Operations, while Wakely was promoted to Director, Thoroughbred Racing Operations.

“Megan and Martha’s leadership, expertise, and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in driving the success of our racing operations. Their ability to foster collaboration and uphold a high standard of excellence has made a lasting impact on both Standardbred and Thoroughbred racing,” said Michael Copeland, CEO of Woodbine Entertainment. “These well-deserved promotions recognize not only their accomplishments but also the immense value they bring to our organization and the broader horse racing community.”

Jim Lawson, Executive Chair, Woodbine Entertainment, added, “These promotions are in recognition of hard work and a testament to the immense value Megan and Martha bring to the organization. It reflects their dedication and the significant impact they have each made in shaping a brighter future for our entire team.”

Standardbred racing is in Megan Walker’s DNA.

Her father, respected horseman Larry Walker, recorded 2,394 wins as a driver, accompanied by $21.1 million in lifetime earnings. He added over 800 wins and nearly $10 million in purse earnings as a trainer.

“Growing up in the sport – from breeding to racing – shaped my understanding and respect for every aspect of the industry. That first-hand experience, passed down through my parents, has been invaluable in my journey at Woodbine.”

Walker joined Woodbine Entertainment in 2016 as a Standardbred Concierge & Owner Development Associate. From there, she held the role of Manager, Standardbred Racing Operations, for nearly three and a half years, before taking on the responsibilities of Senior Manager, Standardbred Racing Operations.

Teamwork forms the foundation of her approach to industry relations, emphasizing collaboration and collective success.

“Every person in the industry – owners, trainers, drivers, breeders, and horseplayers – play an important role in its success. Without each one, the sport wouldn’t function. My approach is built on respect, understanding, and collaboration. If we work together, we can continue to push the industry forward.

“It [the promotion] is a great honour,” continued Walker. “Woodbine Mohawk Park is one of the premier Standardbred racetracks in North America. The opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute alongside the best in the industry has been and continues to be a privilege.”

Add the role of Track Director, Board of Directors with Standardbred Canada to the equation, and Walker’s horse racing résumé is both robust and rewarding.

“Without a doubt, the people and the horses are the best part of my experience working at Woodbine. This industry is built on passion and dedication, and I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some of the hardest-working individuals, from racing participants to our exceptional team at Mohawk. Our Standardbred Racing team is the best in the business and take great pride in what they do.”

Martha Wakely, like Walker, comes from a horse racing background.

Her parents Doug and Mildred Wakely, owned Thoroughbreds, and her brother-in-law, John LeBlanc, Jr., is a graded stakes-winning trainer based at Woodbine.

“We had horses as kids and were into showing them. My parents eventually got into Thoroughbreds. We were those kids standing at the rail watching the races. My dad was so proud. My sister [Maggie LeBlanc] could state any horse’s name and rhyme off pedigrees. Maggie is still breeding and owning horses – I just wish my mom and dad were here to see how their hobby and passion for this industry has affected my sister and me.”

Wakely brought her knowledge and adoration of racing to Woodbine in May 2008, as an Administrative Assistant. Her other roles over the years include Thoroughbred Racing Associate, Owner Concierge, Manager, Racing Operations & Horsemen Concierge Services, and Senior Manager, Thoroughbred Racing Operations.

She was promoted to Director, Thoroughbred Operations, on the same day as Walker.

“I don’t think much will change,” said Wakely. “It feels like there is more responsibility, which I embrace wholeheartedly. I am very lucky to have the relationship I have with our horse people. It’s such a joint venture, the relationship with horse people, especially right now – the whole industry is facing a tough time. There are a lot of challenges for horse people, Woodbine and the industry itself.”

Facing those challenges earnestly and directly is integral to the success of Wakely’s role.

“Everything we do is with the horse people in mind. I think that is where I can help, in knowing how any decision affects a horse. We have to work hand-in-hand, and I believe the horse people are going to see that there are plans to make their lives in the backstretch better.”

“That approach is important to Michael [Woodbine CEO, Copeland]. When we started the food program in the backstretch dorms last year, that was just scratching the surface of what he wants us to do to make life better for horse people. Collectively, we have to step up and carry on that same mindset.”

Wakely continues to be inspired by other women in the industry, from trainers and jockeys who ply their respective trades at Woodbine, to fellow Woodbine employees, and key figures in other prominent racing positions.

“When I was a kid, I remember watching trainers Janet Bedford and Joanie Clark, and just being amazed by their commitment to racing and how they worked to have great success in a male-dominated industry. Jenny Creer was the vet for my brother-in-law’s horses and was one of the first female vets on the backstretch at Woodbine.”

Wakely also lauded the efforts of the women behind the formation of LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society.

Established in 1999, LongRun is one of the most respected horse retirement and adoption organizations, and the first industry-funded adoption program in Canada. Its picturesque property, home to over 50 retired Thoroughbreds, is situated in Hillsburgh, less than an hour’s drive northwest of Woodbine Racetrack.

“Equine welfare continues to be more and more important to our sport,” said Wakely, a Founding Member of LongRun. “This organization started with women behind it. Vicki Pappas gathered a whole group of women together and formed it. We did it and now it’s huge. Vicki is still running it – hands-on, every day. I have been lucky to meet so many extraordinary women through these beautiful animals.”

With the 2025 Woodbine Thoroughbred season fast approaching, Wakely has been a constant presence on the bustling backstretch in the leadup to opening day.

It is a place that feels just like home.

“Every day is special and is different. There will be disagreements, but at the end of the day, we are all passionate about the same things – a love of racing.”

Even on tough days, there’s a silver lining.

“You never know what the day will bring, but one thing is certain – you’re always around horses. And it doesn’t get any better than that.”

Chris Lomon, Woodbine