TORONTO, August 12, 2024 – The post-position draw and luncheon for the 165th running of The King’s Plate is set to take place Tuesday at Woodbine Racetrack. The event, which is open to media and the connections of horses running in this year’s race, will begin at 11:30 a.m. in the Trackside Clubhouse. Natalie Spooner, the inaugural MVP of the PWHL and a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist, will be the special guest assisting with the draw. The 165th King’s Plate, which is contested for a purse of $1 million, will take place this Saturday (August 17). Tuesday’s post draw and […]

TORONTO, August 9, 2023— Krista Cole’s long-held King’s Plate dream is now a reality. The thought, fleeting or otherwise, of having a Thoroughbred contest Canada’s iconic horse race, one that traces its roots to 1860, has captivated Cole for as long as she can remember. Whether it was in the form of fan, groom, exercise rider, or now, in the role of trainer, the horsewoman from Prince Edward Island often wondered what it would feel like to have a horse of her own walk into the Plate starting gate in front of thousands of racing fans. In just over a […]

New Partnership to Enhance Live Horse Racing Coverage for Fans Across Canada Toronto, ON – July 3, 2024 – Woodbine Entertainment and Rogers Sports & Media today announced they have entered into a multi-year media rights agreement for Canada’s most prestigious Thoroughbred horse race, The King’s Plate. This new media rights partnership will provide fans with an extensive lineup of live premier horse racing from around the world, offering more opportunities to enjoy the sport than ever before. “We are thrilled to partner with Sportsnet and Citytv to deliver The King’s Plate – one of our country’s longest and most […]

TORONTO, June 27, 2024 – Piper’s Factor, a son of The Factor, will chase his second straight score when he goes postward in Saturday’s $150,000 HPIbet Marine Stakes (G3) at Woodbine. The $150,000 Marine, a 1 1/16-mile main track for 3-year-olds, has drawn seven starters, as the road to The King’s Plate (August 17) shifts into high gear. With the 165th edition of Canada’s iconic horse race less than two months away, several hopefuls will look to stamp themselves as legitimate contenders ahead of the $1 million classic. Piper’s Factor sports a 2-2-0 mark from seven starts for owner and […]

TORONTO, June 20, 2024 – Woodbine Entertainment and Helmets to Hardhats Canada (H2H) are pleased to announce a new partnership for the 2024 King’s Plate, taking place at Woodbine Racetrack on August 17.  Through the partnership, H2H will be recognized as the Official Building Trades Unions Veterans’ Liaison of the 165th running of The King’s Plate, and a Canadian Veteran will be included in the opening ceremony.  “Woodbine is proud to support Helmets to Hardhats and its valuable objectives,” said Woodbine Entertainment CEO Michael Copeland. “We can think of no better way to show our appreciation for our servicepeople than […]

TORONTO, June 7, 2024 – Woodbine today released the latest nomination numbers for The King’s Plate and Woodbine Oaks presented by Stella Artois. Following the original subscriptions in April, the connections of nominated horses were required to submit an additional payment by June 5, 2024, to remain eligible to either race. The 165th King’s Plate, to be contested on Saturday, August 17, had 52 Canadian bred three-year-olds remain eligible, plus one supplement, to bring the total number of nominees to 53. The Woodbine Oaks, to be run on Saturday, July 20, has 34 Canadian bred three-year-old fillies nominated, plus one supplement, […]

TORONTO, November 22, 2023— The wheels are already in motion for the planning of Canada’s premier thoroughbred horse race and the can’t miss social and fashion event of the summer: The King’s Plate. Woodbine Entertainment today announced the 165th running of The King’s Plate, one of Toronto’s biggest annual sporting events, will take place Saturday, August 17, 2024 at Woodbine Racetrack. “This year’s King’s Plate was a big success, delivering a record handle, sold-out crowd and really exciting racing,” said Michael Copeland, CEO of Woodbine. “The third weekend in August has been a good spot for attracting a quality field on the track and an [...]

TORONTO, August 22, 2023 – The 164th King’s Plate generated the largest single-card handle in Woodbine Racetrack history on Sunday afternoon. A total of $18,127,049.67 was wagered on Sunday’s 13-race King’s Plate card, eclipsing the previous record of $18,005,973.60 from the 2019 Queen’s Plate. The record handle is also a significant increase from last year’s Queen’s Plate handle of $13.6 million. “It’s exciting to have ushered in a new era for the Plate in record-breaking fashion,” said Jim Lawson, CEO of Woodbine Entertainment. “We felt good about the buzz surrounding the first King’s Plate in over 70 years and that […]

Breathing Fire Grey Dragon made a great first impression when the 2-year-old daughter of Frac Daddy won Sunday’s third race, a 5 ½-furlong event on the Tapeta. The grey is bred Goldmart Farms, who co-owns with Royal Laser Inc. Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame inductee Robert Tiller is the trainer. Sweet treat Canadiansweetheart, at 36-1, pulled off the upset in Saturday’s Sweet Briar Too Stakes. It was the eighth career triumph and first stakes crown for the 3-year-old daughter of Ransom the Moon. Renico Lafond trains for owner Kris Manohar. Leo Salles mapped out the winning trip. Fit for […]

TORONTO, August 20, 2023 – Paramount Prince, under jockey Patrick Husbands, bested filly stablemate Elysian Field, both conditioned by dual hall of fame trainer Mark Casse, in the 164th running of the $1 million King’s Plate, Sunday at Woodbine. Last time out in the Plate Trial, Husbands put Paramount Prince on the front end and the pair coasted to an impressive five-length score in the 1 1/8-mile Tapeta event on July 23. On Sunday afternoon in front of a sold-out crowd, it was déjà vu as rider and horse took control from the outset and never looked back en route to another […]

What horse would King Charles pick in a race named in his honour? Since His Majesty didn’t get back to me in an email sent to his handlers in London (surprise!), I’ve concluded his hunch play would be #1 Stanley House because Buckingham Palace is five minutes away from a hotel called the Stanley House. And what would I say about his hunch? Second. According to my closing-fraction rules, Stanley House should be closing to finish second in Sunday’s King’s Plate behind a horse that looks like a solid play: Kalik. If Kalik’s closing fractions on Belmont turf transfer to […]

An owner’s silks are a unique representative of not only the owner but their horses and the jockeys who wear them. Each owner has their own distinct design with various colour combinations to represent and differentiate themselves, with each set of silks having a story behind it. The design and colour symbolism can take on various meanings, whether that be historical or cultural significance. But the story is always personal. Three owners in The 164th King’s Plate shared more about the process and symbolism behind their silks, as well as their thoughts and feelings about being in this historic race. […]

TORONTO, August 19, 2023 – And they’re off! Woodbine Entertainment is set to deliver unparalleled coverage of the highly anticipated 2023 King’s Plate, the first since 1951. The action begins with live national coverage on Sunday, August 20, at 4:30 p.m. ET on TSN, CTV, TSN.ca, CTV.ca, and the TSN and CTV apps. Woodbine is also bringing The King’s Plate to Toronto’s iconic Yonge-Dundas Square by streaming HPItv’s live racing coverage on Branded Cities screens for the first time in the race’s storied history. The King’s Plate is the most esteemed horse racing event in the country and a highlight […]

Sunday marks the 164th running of The King’s Plate. The last King’s Plate took place in 1951, and 2023 marks the first year of the historic name change since then. The $1 million classic is the most prestigious horse race in the country and the longest continually run stakes race in North America. Ten grooms in The King’s Plate provided insight into their horse’s distinct personality, as well as sharing their personal bonds with the horses. Preparing for Woodbine’s biggest race is no small feat, and the early mornings and long nights that got each horse Plate-ready is a huge […]

TORONTO, August 18, 2023 – Woodbine Racetrack will host the 164th King’s Plate this Sunday with a wide buffet of wagering options and promotions available for horseplayers. The 13-race card will start as a special time of 12:25 p.m. and is headlined by the $1 million King’s Plate in Race 10 (5:39 p.m). Horseplayers at Woodbine, across Canada and in the United States will all be able to take advantage of the extensive wagering menu. Below is a list of the various wagering opportunities, contests and promotions. GURANTEES Race 2 $100,000 Guaranteed Early Pick 5 Race 6 $250,000 Guaranteed Middle […]

TORONTO, August 17, 2023— Woodbine Entertainment announced today the lineup of marquee brands that have signed on as official partners for the 164th King’s Plate, Canada’s premier horse racing spectacle renowned for its fashion, entertainment, and world-class racing. The King’s Plate runs on Sunday, August 20 at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto and airs nationally on CTV and TSN. The sponsorship line-up for the King’s Plate includes a wide slate of longtime partners, such as OLG, Stella Artois and Bell Media, along with new sponsors looking to join in on the excitement of this exciting new chapter in Canadian horse racing […]

TORONTO, August 16, 2023 – Seventeen sophomores, including Woodbine Oaks Presented by Budweiser winner Elysian Field, and Plate Trial victor Paramount Prince, both trained by dual hall of famer Mark Casse, will contest the $1 million King’s Plate, first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, highlighting an outstanding stakes-filled Sunday card of racing at Woodbine. The 164th edition of King’s Plate, North America’s oldest continually run race, contested at 1 ¼ miles on the Woodbine Tapeta, is the first event in the tri-surface series for Canadian-bred 3-year-olds. Wando, bred and owned by the late Gustav Schickedanz, was the last horse to accomplish […]

The 164th King's Plate will be contested on Sunday, August 20, 2023 at Woodbine Racetrack. Below you will find profiles on each horse and their connections (owners/trainers/jockeys/grooms). In addition, Plate records/facts, past winners and links to various websites and social feeds are also available. FIELD AND POST POSITIONS CONTENDER PROFILES (Click on the horse's name to view profile of horse/owner/trainer/jockey/groom) Cool Kiss El Cohete Elysian Field Kalik Kaukokaipuu Midnight in Malibu Moon Landing Morstachy's Paramount Prince Philip My Dear Silent Miracle Stanley House Touch'n Ride Twin City Twowaycrossing Velocitor Wickenheiser Enjoythesilent   Profiles written by Chris Lomon, Matthew Lomon, Austin [...]

Toronto, July 23, 2023—Paramount Prince, racing beyond seven furlongs for the first time, made all the running and drew off for an emphatic five-length victory under Patrick Husbands in Sunday’s 1 1/8-mile Plate Trial at Woodbine Racetrack. The Plate Trial, a race for Canadian-bred 3-year-olds, is the major local prep for the $1 million King’s Plate, which will be run on August 20. A field of 12 contested the Plate Trial but Paramount Prince left his rivals reeling. “Looking at the [Daily] Racing Form, it was fun for me,” said Husbands, who was riding his fourth Trial winner. “Looking at […]

TORONTO, July 7, 2023 – Woodbine Entertainment today released its latest King’s Plate Power Rankings for the 164th running of Canada’s most prestigious horse race. The 164th King’s Plate is the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing and is scheduled for Sunday, August 20 at Woodbine Racetrack. The King’s Plate Power Rankings provide a look at the current top contenders and is released several times ahead of this year’s race. The voting committee for The King’s Plate Power Rankings consists of Jeff Bratt (Woodbine Racing Host/Analyst), Monique Vág (Woodbine Racing Host/Analyst), Robert Geller (Woodbine Track […]

TORONTO, June 23, 2023 – Woodbine Entertainment today released its first King’s Plate Power Rankings for the 164th running of Canada’s most prestigious horse race. The 164th King’s Plate is the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing and is scheduled for Sunday, August 20 at Woodbine Racetrack. The King’s Plate Power Rankings provide a look at the current top contenders and will be released several times ahead of this year’s event. The voting committee for The King’s Plate Power Rankings consists of Jeff Bratt (Woodbine Racing Host/Analyst), Monique Vág (Woodbine Racing Host/Analyst), Robert Geller (Woodbine […]

TORONTO, June 9, 2023 – Woodbine Entertainment today released the latest nomination numbers for The King’s Plate and Woodbine Oaks presented by Budweiser. Following the initial subscription in early-April, the connections of nominated horses were required to submit a second payment on or before June 7 to remain eligible. The 164th running of The King’s Plate, to be contested on Sunday, August 20, had 69 Canadian bred three-year-olds remaining eligible, plus one supplement to bring the number to 70. The Woodbine Oaks, which will be run on Sunday, July 23, had 30 Canadian bred three-year-old fillies remain eligible, plus two […]

Woodbine Head Clocker and Oddsmaker Ernie Perri offers up a look at a handful of King’s Plate (August 20) prospects who have caught his eye. “Courtly Ro, a 3-year-old filly for trainer Kevin Attard, has been working with Gold Magic and getting the better of him lately. Fillies have done really well in this race.” “Poulin in O T for Steve Owens has been working extensively. His latest work was in a strong :59.60 from the gate, beating company. He is on track for some good things this year.” “Midnight in Malibu for hall of fame trainer Sid Attard last worked […]

TORONTO, May 3, 2023 – Woodbine Entertainment, Canada’s largest racetrack operator, announced today that grandstand tickets to the first King’s Plate in over 70 years go on-sale to the general public this Saturday, May 6 at 10 a.m., coinciding with King Charles III’s coronation. Woodbine Entertainment also unveiled The Plate’s new logo today. The Plate, which is the longest continuously run stakes race in North America and Canada’s most prestigious race for three-year old Canadian Thoroughbreds, has been run under the moniker of The Queen’s Plate for decades. Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022 and the […]

Canada’s oldest and most prestigious Thoroughbred race enters a new era  Toronto ON – December 7, 2022 – Woodbine Entertainment is pleased to announce that The Queen’s Plate, North America’s longest continuously run stakes race, will once again be known as The King’s Plate.   This exciting next chapter of Canada’s premier Thoroughbred horse race, which will take place on Sunday, August 20 in 2023, follows the September 2022 accession of King Charles III.  The 2023 edition will mark the 164th running of the prestigious, $1 million-stakes race historically named in honour of the reigning monarch, which has become one of […]

TORONTO, August 21, 2022 – Moira was once again masterful in victory, the daughter of Ghostzapper-Devine Aida trouncing her 10 rivals to the tune of a seven-length triumph in the 163rd running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, Sunday at Woodbine. If there was any question as to what type of encore the Ontario-bred filly would come up with after a brilliant 10 ¾ lengths score in the Woodbine Oaks Presented by Budweiser three weeks ago, Moira had a most emphatic answer, punctuated by a primetime performance in front of an aprreciative crowd. Owned by X-Men Racing LLC, Madaket Stables LLC […]

The 163rd running of The Queen's Plate is scheduled for this Sunday (August 21). The Woodbine Communications team has compiled a list of Queen's Plate Facts & Figures, including race records, payout facts, jockey & trainer appearances and more. 163rd Queen's Plate Field Sheet Queen's Plate Facts 2022 Jockeys & Trainers (Past Appearances) 2022 Queen's Plate Field Profiles

TORONTO, August 10, 2022 – Woodbine Entertainment announced today that platinum-selling Canadian country duo, The Reklaws, have been named the celebrity ambassadors for this year’s 163rd running of The Queen’s Plate on Sunday, August 21 at Woodbine Racetrack. Comprised of siblings Jenna and Stuart Walker, The Reklaws are multiple-time CCMA Award winners and have received multiple JUNO Awards nominations. The duo has amassed 250 million-plus streams globally along with 10 gold and seven platinum-certified tracks. As Queen’s Plate celebrity ambassadors, The Reklaws will take the stage at Woodbine for a special performance, which will also be broadcast live on CTV […]

TORONTO, May 25, 2022 – Tickets for the 163rd running of The Queen’s Plate, Sunday, August 21 at Woodbine Racetrack, go on sale Thursday morning at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster.ca. The Queen’s Plate, the first jewel of the Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, is North America’s oldest continuously run stakes event, showcasing Canada’s top three-year-old Thoroughbreds. Recognized as one of Toronto’s hottest summer events, this year’s Queen’s Plate will continue the great tradition of a fashion-forward day at the races, featuring live entertainment, unique dining experiences and world-class horse racing. “The pageantry and vibrant energy of The Queen’s Plate […]

TORONTO, December 1, 2021 – Woodbine Entertainment today announced the 163rd running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, first jewel of the Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, will be held on Sunday, August 21, 2022 at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto. Contested annually to showcase Canada’s finest three-year-old Thoroughbreds, The Queen’s Plate is one of the country’s premier sporting events and North America’s oldest continuously run stakes race. Following a successful 162nd running in August 2021, The Queen’s Plate will remain in a late-August position for the 2022 racing season at Woodbine. The most recent edition of the prestigious race […]

Toronto, ON – August 26, 2021 – After successfully welcoming back spectators to The Queen’s Plate this past weekend, Woodbine Entertainment’s 2020 ‘QP @ Home’ campaign has been named a finalist for the Best Use of Instagram in the third annual Hashtag Sports Awards presented by Budweiser. Without spectators being permitted to attend The Queen’s Plate in 2020, Woodbine Entertainment developed and executed a digital strategy to bring the prestigious event’s traditions of music, fashion, gourmet food and drinks, and thrilling horse racing directly to fans across the country. Other finalists for the Best Use of Instagram for Hashtag Sports [...]

All Sources Handle Up 11% from 2020 TORONTO, August 23, 2021 – Safe Conduct’s triumph in Sunday’s 162nd running of The Queen’s Plate, the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, highlighted a tremendous day of world-class racing at Woodbine Racetrack that produced the second-highest wagering handle in event history. A total of $16,122,170 was wagered on Sunday’s 13-race card, including $3,491,564 on The Queen’s Plate. The total handle is second-only to the 2019 event total of $18,005,973 and tops the 2020 handle of $14,532,678 by 11%. “This year’s Queen’s Plate brought the energy of our great sport back [...]

TORONTO, August 22, 2021 – The 162nd running of The Queen’s Plate was the crown jewel for a tremendous 13-race card on Sunday afternoon at Woodbine Racetrack. The stellar undercard included the Grade 1 Highlander, Grade 2 Dance Smartly and Grade 3 Ontario Colleen. Our Flash Drive plugged-in for Grade 3 Ontario Colleen score  TORONTO, August 22, 2021 – Our Flash Drive, under Patrick Husbands, was full of run down the lane en route to an impressive win in the Grade 3 $150,000 Ontario Colleen Stakes for 3-year-old fillies, Sunday at Woodbine. One of two Mark Casse trainees in the […]

TORONTO, August 22, 2021 – Safe Conduct had just enough left in the tank to take the 162nd running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, North America’s oldest continually run race, as the son of Bodemeister bested a hard-charging Riptide Rock by a head, Sunday at Woodbine. Bred by Ontario’s Mitchell Kursner, the bay colt had never raced over the Toronto oval Tapeta prior to the 1 ¼-mile classic. With Irad Ortiz Jr. aboard, Safe Conduct’s Canadian debut was certainly a thrilling and memorable one, winning the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. Sent off […]

TORONTO, August 21, 2021 – With spectators returning for the first time in two years, Woodbine Entertainment is pleased to announce that Sunday’s 162nd running of The Queen’s Plate at Woodbine Racetrack. is officially sold out. All grandstand, dining, and general admission tickets for this year’s running of The Queen’s Plate have been sold. In accordance with government regulations, this year’s event is limited to 50 per cent capacity. “We are ecstatic by the energy and anticipation from our fans to be with us for Sunday’s Queen’s Plate,” said Jim Lawson, CEO of Woodbine Entertainment “The Queen’s Plate is an […]

TORONTO, August 21, 2021 – Woodbine kicked-off Queen’s Plate weekend with a quartet of stakes events on Saturday’s 11-race card. The recaps of each stakes contest are available below. First Empire rules the roost in Soaring Free  TORONTO, August 21, 2021 – First Empire, prominent throughout, took charge around the final turn and held off Degree of Risk to score by 1 ¾-lengths in Saturday’s $140,250 Soaring Free Stakes at Woodbine.  The Soaring Free, a 6 ½-furlong turf race for 2-year-olds, attracted a field of six and kicked off the first of back-to-back four-stakes programs at the Toronto oval on […]

TORONTO, August 20, 2021 – With The Queen’s Plate just a few days away, Woodbine Entertainment has released the final Queen’s Plate Power Rankings for this year’s 162nd edition. The 162nd Queen’s Plate will take place on Sunday (August 22) at Woodbine Racetrack. Canada’s most famous horse race will launch the 2021 OLG Canadian Triple Crown, which includes the Prince of Wales on September 14 at Fort Erie and the Breeders’ Stakes on October 3 at Woodbine. The Power Rankings highlight the most talented three-year-old Thoroughbreds eligible to enter for a spot in the $1-million race. Votes are cast by expert horseplayers […]

TORONTO, August 20, 2021 – A trio of graded stakes, the Highlander (G1), Dance Smartly (G2), Ontario Colleen (G3), complement the 162nd running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, Sunday at Woodbine. Seven fillies and mares, 3-year-olds and up, will vie for top spot in the $175,000 Dance Smartly Stakes, a 1 ¼-mile test over the E.P. Taylor Turf Course. Graham Motion will send out Blame Debbie, a four-year-old daughter of Blame, as the multiple graded stakes winning trainer looks to notch his first Dance Smartly crown. Owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Michael Cloonan and Timothy Thornton, the well-traveled bay has assembled a 4-1-3 mark from […]

Toronto, August 20, 2021 – Woodbine Entertainment is excited to announce the return of the Ladies of the Lawn series. Launched in 2019, Woodbine’s Ladies of the Lawn is a points-based bonus series that includes three premier turf races for fillies and mares. The owner of the horse who has accumulated the most points upon the conclusion of the three premier races will receive a $50,000 bonus, while the owner who horse who accumulated the second and third most points will receive a $15,000 and $10,000 bonus respectively. The Ladies of the Lawn series begins on Sunday, August 22, with […]

TORONTO, August 18, 2021 – The post-position draw for the 162nd running of The Queen’s Plate was held Wednesday morning at Woodbine Racetrack. A total of 13 horses were entered for this year’s $1-million race. Following a draw for order of selection, the connections of the horses entered provided their post selection and thoughts on their Queen’s Plate contender. The field is set for the 162nd running of The Queen's Plate – Sunday, August 22 @WoodbineTB! #QP21 #BetWoodbineTB pic.twitter.com/mRKhrRtnJN — Mark McKelvie (@MohawkMarkM) August 18, 2021 Sid Attard (Riptide Rock) “He ran down south, you know he run over mile […]

TORONTO, August 18, 2021 – Thirteen hopefuls, including four Kevin Attard trainees, will vie for top prize in the $1 million Queen’s Plate, first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, highlighting a stakes-laden, entertainment-filled Sunday card of racing at Woodbine. The 162nd edition of the Queen’s Plate, North America’s oldest continually run race, contested at 1 ¼ miles on the Woodbine Tapeta, is the curtain raiser for the tri-surface series for Canadian-bred three-year-olds. Wando, bred and owned by the late Gustav Schickedanz, was the last horse to accomplish the feat, in 2003, while becoming the seventh to record the unique triple. The $400,000 […]

Toronto, ON – August 18, 2021 –JUNO Award-nominated and platinum certified singer-songwriter Ryland James is set to perform the National Anthem at Canada’s most historic and prestigious horse race, The Queen’s Plate, this Sunday, August 22. Ryland’s performance of O’Canada is expected to be a special moment in the long and storied history of the event as spectators return to Woodbine Racetrack to watch The Queen’s Plate, first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, for the first time in more than two years. The singing of the national anthem will be aired during the broadcast on TSN and CTV […]

TORONTO, August 18, 2021 – A look at some of the contenders set to contest the 162nd running of the Queen’s Plate, first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, slated for this Sunday at Woodbine.  Full of energy, Safe Conduct revved up for Plate Safe Conduct is a big horse with the energy to match. “He has an exceptional amount of energy all the time and he just loves to train,” said his New York-based trainer Philip Serpe. “The headlights are always on and he’s ready to go.” A son of Bodemeister out of the Congrats mare Duchess Dancer, […]

TORONTO, August 17, 2021 – A look at some of the contenders set to contest the 162nd running of The Queen’s Plate, slated for this Sunday at Woodbine. The Queen’s Plate is the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. Tidal Forces, aka, “Brutus,” set for Queen’s Plate date Sam-Son Farm will have a pair of chances, namely, Tidal Forces, and Dance Some Mo, to add a sixth Queen’s Plate trophy to its impressive collection of horse racing hardware. Listed at 50-1 in the Queen’s Plate Winterbook, Tidal Forces, trained by Gail Cox, earned himself a […]

TORONTO, August 16, 2021 – Woodbine Entertainment announced today that Canadian Olympic teammates Penny Oleksiak and Kayla Sanchez, both of whom won multiple medals in swimming at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympic Games, have been named Celebrity Ambassadors for the 162nd running of The Queen’s Plate, the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown. The Queen’s Plate will be broadcast live on TSN and CTV starting at 4:30 p.m. ET. “At Woodbine Entertainment we are so proud of our Canadian Olympians and how they represented our country in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games,” said Jim Lawson, CEO, Woodbine Entertainment. “We are […]

TORONTO, August 16, 2021 – A look at some of the contenders set to contest the 162nrd running of the Queen’s Plate, slated for this Sunday at Woodbine. Woodbine Oaks champ Munnyfor Ro ready for Queen’s Plate date It has become pretty much de rigueur for the Woodbine Oaks winner to run back in the Queen’s Plate, with the heroine of the filly showpiece returning to face the boys in all but one of the last 13 years and Inglorious (2011), Lexie Lou (2014) and Holy Helena (2017) completing the double during that span. So it can’t be considered a […]

TORONTO, August 9, 2021 – Legendary Canadian performing artist Jim Cuddy and his band will perform live at The 162nd Queen’s Plate, the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, at Woodbine Racetrack on Sunday, August 22, 2021. Cuddy, an accomplished solo artist and one-half of the song writing duo responsible for Blue Rodeo hits including “Try,” “5 Days In May,” and “Bad Timing”, will bring his unique blend of country-folk-rock to Canada’s premier day of horse racing, The Queen’s Plate. As a band, Blue Rodeo has won numerous JUNO awards, been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of […]

TORONTO, August 6, 2021 – Woodbine Entertainment today released its latest edition of Power Rankings for the 162nd running of the Queen’s Plate. The 162nd Queen’s Plate will take place on Sunday, August 22 at Woodbine Racetrack. Canada’s most famous horse race will launch the 2021 OLG Canadian Triple Crown, which includes the Prince of Wales on September 14 at Fort Erie and the Breeders’ Stakes on October 3 at Woodbine. The Power Rankings highlight the most talented three-year-old Thoroughbreds eligible to enter for a spot in the $1-million race. Votes are cast by expert horseplayers and racing personalities from Woodbine […]

TORONTO, July 30, 2021 – Tickets for The 162nd Queen’s Plate, the first jewel of the 2021 OLG Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, are now on sale through Ticketmaster.ca. This year’s Queen’s Plate will welcome back spectators for the first time since June 2019. Due to government-imposed capacity limits, fans are encouraged to buy tickets early to secure the best seats before they sell out. The 162nd running of The Queen’s Plate will take place on Sunday, August 22 at Woodbine Racetrack. A fashion-forward day at the races, The Queen’s Plate festivities include live entertainment, unique dining experiences and world-class […]

TORONTO, January 12, 2021 – Woodbine Entertainment announced today that the 162nd  running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, first jewel of the Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, will be held on Sunday, August 22, 2021 at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto. Contested annually to showcase Canada’s finest three-year-old Thoroughbreds, The Queen’s Plate is one of the country’s premier sporting events and North America’s oldest continuously run stakes race. Held at the end of June in past years, The Queen's Plate was moved to late summer in 2020 and run on September 12 without spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic. [...]

TORONTO, September 28, 2020 – Queen’s Plate winner Mighty Heart will continue his pursuit of the prestigious OLG Canadian Triple Crown when he takes on eight contenders at Fort Erie Race Track in the 85th Prince of Wales Stakes, on Tuesday, September 29. After a dominating 7 ½-length triumph in the Queen’s Plate, Mighty Heart, bred and owned by Lawrence Cordes, and trained by Canadian Hall of Fame inductee Josie Carroll, will look to continue his winning ways in the $400,000 Prince of Wales, second jewel in the OLG Canadian Triple Crown. On Friday, he was installed as the 7-5 morning [...]

TORONTO, September 12, 2020 – Mighty Heart and jockey Daisuke Fukumoto won the 161st running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, first jewel of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, on Saturday at Woodbine Racetrack. The one-eyed Dramedy-Emma’s Bullseye colt is trained by Josie Carroll for owner/breeder Lawrence Cordes. Top three finishers: Mighty Heart-Belichick-Clayton Final time: 2:01.98 Josie Carroll, trainer of Mighty Heart Mighty Heart, what a performance. Led the whole way. What did you think? Josie Carroll (JC): “I was concerned for a minute or two with the quick fractions but he looked like he was settling and doing it […]

TORONTO, September 12, 2020 – Mighty Heart lived up to his name in a dominating score in the 161st running of the Queen’s Plate, as the one-eyed colt trounced his 13 rivals on Saturday at Woodbine. Originally slated for June 27, North America’s oldest continually run race was moved to September 12 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the connections of Mighty Heart, it was well worth the wait. Bred and owned by Lawrence Cordes, the son of Dramedy flew under the radar leading up to the Plate, but the Ontario-bred bay, in his first stakes test, landed in the […]

TORONTO, September 11, 2020 – The field is set for Saturday’s $1 million Queen’s Plate at Woodbine and the experts have weighed in with their selections for the final edition of the Queen’s Plate Power Rankings presented by the OLG Canadian Triple Crown. The Power Rankings highlight top contenders leading up to the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown as voted on by expert horseplayers and racing commentators from Woodbine Racetrack and Fort Erie Race Track, including Jeff Bratt, Robert Geller, Ashley Mailloux, Doug McPherson, Jason Portuondo and Monique Vag. The rankings are based on votes following a […]

TORONTO, September 10, 2020 – Art of Almost and Elizabeth Way, both trained by Roger Attfield, will take on eight rivals, including multiple Grade 1 champion Cambier Parc, in Saturday’s $250,000 Canadian Stakes presented by the Japan Racing Association (Grade 2), one of four added-money features that complement the 161st running of The Queen’s Plate. A dual hall of fame inductee, Attfield will look for his fourth Canadian crown, having won the 1984 edition with Dundrum Dancer, the 1994 running with Alywow, and the 2010 renewal with Miss Keller. He’ll have a pair of chances to add to his Canadian haul […]

TORONTO, September 9, 2020 – Plate Trial champ Clayton and multiple stakes-winning filly Curlin’s Voyage will take on 12 other Queen’s Plate hopefuls in the $1 million classic set for 1 ¼ miles on the Woodbine Tapeta this Saturday. The 161st edition of the Queen’s Plate, North America’s oldest continually run race, is the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, a tri-surface series for Canadian-bred three-year-olds. Wando, bred and owned by the late Gustav Schickedanz, was the last horse to accomplish the feat while becoming the seventh to record the unique triple in 2003. The $400,000 Prince of Wales, run […]

TORONTO, September 8, 2020 – The post position draw for the 161st running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, first jewel of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, will be held tomorrow morning (Wednesday, Sept. 9). Racing analyst Jason Portuondo will host the post draw show, which will be streamed live online from Woodbine Racetrack’s broadcast studio and paddock. The traditional Queen’s Plate post position draw format will be used to determine how the field will line up in the starting gate, beginning with a draw to decide the order in which connections will select their posts. The live stream will […]

Toronto, On – September 8, 2020 – As part of this year’s Queen’s Plate @ Home, Woodbine Entertainment is creating a new tradition for one of Canada’s most prestigious events. To keep music as a big part of The Queen’s Plate experience, Woodbine Entertainment invited Universal Music Canada artists Jade Eagleson and platinum-selling singer/songwriter Ryland James to perform exclusive versions of their hit-singles right on Woodbine Racetrack where North America’s longest continuously run Thoroughbred race will take place this Saturday, September 12. “Over the past several years, music has become such a big part of The Queen’s Plate experience and […]

TORONTO, September 6, 2020 – Woodbine Entertainment announced today that there will be a mandatory payout for the Woodbine Thoroughbred Jackpot Hi-5 next Saturday, Sept. 12 to close out the Queen’s Plate program. Wagering on the Jackpot Hi-5 will be suspended following the Monday, Sept. 7 race card and will not be offered on the Friday, Sept. 11 program. The carryover, which has been growing since the last mandatory payout date on August 8, currently sits at $193,135.97. The Jackpot Hi-5 wager, which has a 20-cent minimum bet, requires horseplayers to select the top five finishers in the correct order […]

EXPERIENCE THE TRADITIONS OF THE QUEEN’S PLATE SAFELY AT MOXIE’S GRILL & BAR The Reklaws to Perform Live Acoustic Set at Moxie’s Grill & Bar Near Woodbine Racetrack TORONTO, September 3, 2020 – The 161st Queen’s Plate is coming to a Moxie’s Grill & Bar Patio and Lounge near you. While this year’s Queen’s Plate on Saturday, September 12 will not be open to the general public, Woodbine Entertainment announced today that it has partnered with Moxie’s in Canada to bring The Queen’s Plate experience safely to fans at nine participating Moxie’s Grill & Bar patios and lounges across the […]

By: Chris Lomon for Woodbine.com TORONTO, September 3, 2020 – Three Queen’s Plate stories, each one a decidedly different recollection of the iconic horse race, but united by one common theme. Trainer Nicholas Gonzalez, farm manager David Whitford and jockey Justin Stein all have fond memories of the oldest continually run Thoroughbred race in North America, which celebrates its 161st edition on September 12. *** It was 1971, and 19-year-old Nicholas Gonzalez was hard at work in his quest to become a Thoroughbred trainer. His first training win wouldn’t come until just over five years later, but on June 19, […]

TORONTO, September 2, 2020 – Woodbine Entertainment has announced that the post position draw for the 161st running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, first jewel of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, will be presented online via a live stream on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 10 a.m. Racing analyst Jason Portuondo will host the virtual production live from Woodbine Racetrack and will be joined by Jim Lawson, President and CEO of Woodbine Entertainment. The traditional Queen’s Plate post position draw format will be conducted with a draw to decide the order in which connections will select their posts. Following physical […]

TORONTO, August 20, 2020 – A victory in the Plate Trial on Saturday at Woodbine Racetrack propelled Clayton to the top spot in the second edition of the 161st Queen’s Plate Power Rankings presented by the OLG Canadian Triple Crown. The Power Rankings highlight top OLG Canadian Triple Crown contenders as voted on by expert horseplayers and racing commentators from Woodbine Racetrack and Fort Erie Race Track, including Jeff Bratt, Robert Geller, Ashley Mailloux, Doug McPherson, Jason Portuondo and Monique Vag. The rankings are based on votes following a 5-4-3-2-1 points system for top five selections and honourable mentions. Many […]

INTRODUCING THE QUEEN’S PLATE @ HOME Building new traditions for one of Canada’s oldest traditions and most prestigious events   TORONTO, August 20, 2020 – Woodbine Entertainment is excited to share its plans for the 161st Queen’s Plate that will bring one of Canada’s most prestigious events and storied traditions directly to fans like never before. The digital-first experience will largely live on Woodbine Entertainment’s Instagram channel @WoodbineTB and will feature content anchored in the event’s longstanding traditions of fashion, gourmet food, music, wagering and world-class Thoroughbred racing. This year’s QP @ Home experience is captured in this video. Kicking […]

TORONTO, August 15, 2020 – Curlin’s Voyage, patiently handled by Patrick Husbands, put away her rivals in early stretch en route to victory in the 65th running of the $500,000 Woodbine Oaks presented by Budweiser, Saturday at Woodbine. Trained by Josie Carroll and owned by Hill ‘n’ Dale Equine Holdings Inc., and Windsor Boys Racing, Curlin’s Voyage made a strong statement in the first leg of the Triple Tiara for Canadian-bred three-year-old fillies, and in doing so, perhaps put herself in line for a spot in the Queen’s Plate starting gate. It was Infinite Patience, breaking from the outside post […]

TORONTO, August 15, 2020 – Clayton, a son of 2012 Arkansas Derby winner Bodemeister, dug deep to fend off a pair of stubborn foes in taking the $150,000 Plate Trial Stakes, Saturday afternoon at Woodbine. The road to the Queen’s Plate – set for Saturday, September 12 – is heating up. A field of six Canadian-foaled three-year-olds took to the Toronto oval Tapeta in the 1 1/8-mile Plate Trial, the traditional prep for the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown. The race didn’t disappoint. Dotted Line, one of three (Elusive Knight and Northern Thunder were the others) Sid […]

TORONTO, August 13, 2020 – Woodbine Entertainment today announced the first edition of the 161st Queen’s Plate Power Rankings presented by the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, and it looks quite different than the list of top contenders from The Queen’s Plate Winterbook that was released in February. Woodbine Entertainment also announced that this year’s Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing sees the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. (OLG) return as an official partner and presenting sponsor, starting with The Queen’s Plate on Saturday, September 12 at Woodbine Racetrack. The Power Rankings, to be updated three more times (August 20, September […]

TORONTO, August 12, 2020 – Halo Again goes after his fourth career win in his sixth start in Saturday’s $150,000 Plate Trial Stakes, a traditional prep for Canada’s most famous race, the $1 million Queen’s Plate, scheduled for September 12. All Plate Trial starters carry 126 pounds, the same weight they’ll carry should they contest the 1 1/4-mile Queen’s Plate. Big Red Mike (2010) was the most recent horse to notch the Plate Trial-Queen’s Plate double. In what’s shaping up to be a wide-open race for all the spoils in the 161st running of Canada’s most famous horse race, three […]

TORONTO, July 22, 2020 – A pair of Grade 3 events, the $125,000 Marine Stakes and $125,000 Selene Stakes, share the spotlight this Saturday at Woodbine. A key prep on the road to this year’s Queen’s Plate (September 12, at Woodbine), the 1 1/16-mile main track Marine, for three-year-olds, has attracted some noteworthy Canadian-breds hoping for a spot in the Plate starting gate. Queen’s Plate eligibles Dotted Line (18-1 in the Queen’s Plate Winterbook), Glorious Tribute (40-1), and Perfect Revenge (40-1) are set to contest to the Marine. The 65th running of the Marine will be complemented by the 67th […]

TORONTO, July 9, 2020 – Sixty-one of the finest Canadian-bred three-year-olds remain on target for the 161st running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12. The connections of 58 Queen’s Plate hopefuls made the July 1 sustaining payment with an additional three supplementing to the 1 1/4-mile opening leg of the Canadian Triple Crown for a fee of $5,000. Recent Queenston Stakes winner Halo Again is among the top contenders after his triumphant return to Woodbine on July 4 when he defeated a field of fellow Queen’s Plate hopefuls in the seven-furlong prep. Bred by Anderson […]

TORONTO, July 4, 2020 – Leading jockey Rafael Hernandez swept the back-to-back stakes features as part of a five-win performance on Saturday at Woodbine Racetrack, with Halo Again a popular winner in $125,000 Queenston Stakes and Skywire pulling off a 17-1 upset in the $175,000 Eclipse (Grade 2). Returning to the scene of his 2019 Coronation Futurity victory, Steve Asmussen trainee Halo Again delivered another winning performance on the road to The Queen’s Plate (September 12), prevailing in the 65th edition of the $125,000 Queenston Stakes on Saturday afternoon. With Hernandez aboard in the seven-furlong sprint for Canadian-foaled three-year-olds, Halo […]

TORONTO, July 3, 2020 – Six fillies, including Gun Society, vie for top prize in Sunday’s $125,000 Fury Stakes, at Woodbine. A daughter of Society’s Chairman, Gun Society arrives at the seven-furlong Fury (for Canadian-foaled three-year-old fillies), a key race on the road to the Woodbine Oaks presented by Budweiser (August 15), and possible date in the Queen’s Plate (September 12), off a half-length score in the South Ocean Stakes in November. Bred, owned and trained by dual Hall of Fame inductee Roger Attfield, Gun Society is listed at 30-1 in the Queen’s Plate Winterbook. “I wanted to have started […]

TORONTO, July 2, 2020 – The $125,000 Queenston Stakes, a key race on the road to this year’s Queen’s Plate, and the Grade 2 $175,000 Eclipse Stakes share the spotlight this Saturday at Woodbine. Nine horses will contest the seven-furlong Queenston, a main track stakes for three-year-olds foaled in Canada. The 65th edition of the race serves as an important prep for the Queen’s Plate, slated for September 12 at Woodbine. Dotted Line, trained by Sid Attard for Howard Walton’s Norseman Racing Stable, finished fifth and fourth, respectively, in his first two starts before rhyming off three straight wins in […]

TORONTO, June 13, 2020 – Stakes action kicked off at Woodbine Racetrack on Saturday afternoon with three-year-old colt Newstome winning the $100,000 Woodstock Stakes and Owlette taking the six-furlong companion Star Shoot for fillies. With Luis Contreras aboard, Newstome made headlines with a commanding victory in the season’s first stakes event for trainer Michael Trombetta and owner Marie Trombetta. Leaving from the inside, Aye Aye Sir charged out along the rail in the Woodstock with Lookinatamiracle and outsider Untitled looming through a :22.30 first quarter. The outside foes continued to press the pace into the turn and past the :45.14 […]

TORONTO, June 10, 2020 – A pair of key prep races on the road to the Queen’s Plate, the $100,000 Woodstock and the $100,000 Star Shoot, kick off the Woodbine Thoroughbred stakes season this Saturday. The 122nd edition of the Woodstock, for three-year-olds, and the companion Star Shoot, for three-year-old fillies, share the spotlight on the second weekend of racing at Woodbine. Both added-money events, to be contested at six panels over the Tapeta track, have attracted notable contenders for the $500,000 Woodbine Oaks Presented by Budweiser (first leg of the Canadian Triple Tiara, slated for the August 15 card, which […]

TSN and Woodbine Entertainment Partner to Deliver Weekly Dual Breed Horse Racing Broadcasts, Beginning June 11  RACING NIGHT LIVE to air Thursday evenings throughout the summer and leading up to the Canadian Triple Crown on Canada’s Sports Leader   TORONTO, June 3, 2020 – TSN and Woodbine Entertainment announced today they are expanding their successful broadcast partnership to bring Canadians live horse racing every Thursday night throughout the summer with RACING NIGHT LIVE. The action begins Thursday, June 11 at 6 p.m. ET on TSN and features a mix of live Thoroughbred races from Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto and Standardbred races from Mohawk Park in Milton, […]

WOODBINE ENTERTAINMENT UNVEILS REVISED STAKES SCHEDULE The Queen’s Plate and Ricoh Woodbine Mile on Back-to-Back Weekends TORONTO, May 20, 2020 – Woodbine Entertainment unveiled its revised stakes schedule for the 2020 Thoroughbred racing season which is now scheduled to open on Saturday, June 6 and will run through Sunday, December 13 at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, Ontario. The 2020 stakes program includes $13.8 million in purses across 75 stakes and features The Queen’s Plate (Saturday, September 12) and the Grade 1 Ricoh Woodbine Mile (Saturday, September 19) scheduled on back-to-back weekends for the first time in Woodbine’s storied history. “It’s […]

TORONTO, ON – Monday, May 18 – On Victoria Day, a day in which Canada honours Queen Victoria, Woodbine Entertainment is pleased to announce that The Queen’s Plate will remain as the longest continuously run Thoroughbred stakes race in North America. The 161st running of The Queen’s Plate will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, Ontario. “The history of The Queen’s Plate is so rich and the fact that it’s been held every year since the inaugural race in 1860 is remarkable,” said Jim Lawson, CEO, Woodbine Entertainment. “We are honoured to be able […]

TORONTO, April 1, 2020 – Woodbine Entertainment announced today that the 161st running of The Queen’s Plate will be postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The event was originally scheduled for Saturday, June 27. While a new date has not been confirmed, Woodbine Entertainment intends to host The Queen’s Plate at Woodbine Racetrack this year, subject to recommendations and restrictions from government and health officials related to the Covid-19 pandemic. “The Queen’s Plate is the oldest continuously run race in North America and we have every intention of keeping it that way,” said Jim Lawson, CEO, Woodbine Entertainment. “Once we […]

TORONTO, March 4, 2020 – Woodbine trainers have seen quite a bit of stakes success already this winter. Kevin Attard has recorded a pair of stakes wins with Starship Jubilee at Gulfstream Park, Barb Minshall recorded a graded stakes victory with Admiralty Pier at Tampa Bay Downs, and Mark Casse has won a trio of stakes events, including the Grade 3 Lecomte Stakes at Fair Grounds in January with Enforceable. Trainer Roger Attfield added his name to that list over the weekend, as Elizabeth Way captured the Grade 3 The Very One Stakes over 1 3/16 miles on turf at […]

TORONTO, February 25, 2020 – A wide selection of tickets is now on sale for the 2020 Queen’s Plate Festival, Canada’s unrivalled horse racing experience set for Saturday, June 27 at Woodbine Racetrack. The Queen’s Plate Festival will showcase the 161st running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate stakes race, the first jewel of the Canadian Triple Crown for the nation’s finest three-year-old Thoroughbreds. The epic event also features fabulous fashion, gourmet food and live music. Following a limited release of select Grandstand tickets in December, all Grandstand tickets are now on sale in addition to General Admission tickets and […]

TORONTO, July 6, 2019 – One Bad Boy kicked off his quest for the OLG Canadian Triple Crown title and bonus by leading all the way in the 160th edition of the $1 million Queen’s Plate last Saturday at Woodbine. The record-breaking Queen’s Plate day, with handle topping $18 million, featured an abundance of star power in stakes action. Woodbine’s award-winning track photographer Michael Burns captured highlights from the post position draw all the way through to the 1-1/4-mile first leg of the of OLG Canadian Triple Crown. Relive all the action below.  

TORONTO, June 29, 2018 – One Bad Boy and jockey Flavien Prat won the 160th running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate on Saturday at Woodbine Racetrack. The three-year-old son od Twirling Candy is trained by Richard Baltas and owned by Sayjay Racing LLC, Greg Hall and Brooke Hubbard. Top three order of finish: One Bad Boy-Avie’s Flatter-Tone Broke Final time: 2:02.98 Flavien Prat (jockey of One Bad Boy) “He (Avie’s Flatter) was next to me, so I knew he was the horse to beat. By the eighth-pole, I asked him to reengage and he drove away. So from that […]

One Bad Boy good to go in coast-to-coast score in 160th running of the Queen’s Plate Queen’s Plate day smashes single day wagering record at Woodbine TORONTO, June 29, 2019—One Bad Boy was good to go for the 160th running of the Queen’s Plate on Saturday at Woodbine, taking charge early and fending off a prolonged challenge from Avie’s Flatter to pull away for a 3 ½ length tally under Flavien Prat. The $1 million Queen’s Plate, the 1 ¼ mile race which is the opening leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown for Canadian-bred three-year-olds, was the first Canadian […]

By: Colin Nolte and Tommy Cosgrove for Woodbine.com The Queen’s Plate, the most important race for Canadian three-year-old Thoroughbreds, is the oldest continuously run stakes race on the North American continent. The event is steeped in tradition and folklore. From the awarding of 50 Royal Sovereigns, which dates back to the original purse awarded at its first running, to the presence of reigning monarchs or representatives of the Royal family, the annual classic honours both history and modern times as a spectacle and an important day on the Canadian sporting calendar. Recent editions of this classic event have been won […]

Story by: Beverley Smith for Woodbine Communications TORONTO, June 26, 2019–It’s only fitting: two years after her dominant victory in the Queen’s Plate, Holy Helena has come home to race on Plate day at Woodbine, albeit in the Dance Smartly Stakes. The five-year-old daughter of Ghostzapper, owned by Frank Stronach’s Adena Stables, was chosen Canada’s top three-year-old filly in 2017 after she swept both the Woodbine Oaks and the Plate, before finishing second in the G3 Ontario Derby against colts that year. Eventually, she won the G3 The Very One Stakes at Gulfstream Park (twice) and the G2 Sheepshead Bay […]

TORONTO, June 26, 2019 – The post position draw for the 160th running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, first jewel of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, will be streamed live online this morning. The media event will be held in the Trackside Clubhouse at Woodbine Racetrack and is scheduled for 9:30 a.m., with proceedings expected to begin at approximately 10 a.m. Live streaming will be available on Woodbine’s website. Post positions for the field will be determined with the connections of the contenders first drawing their post selection order then proceeding to pick their post positions in the order […]

TORONTO, June 26, 2019—Avie’s Flatter, Canada’s champion two-year-old male, looms as the horse to beat when he faces 13 other Queen’s Plate hopefuls in the $1 million showpiece over 1 1/4 miles on Woodbine’s Tapeta surface this Saturday. The 160th edition of the Queen’s Plate, North America’s oldest annually run race, is the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, a tri-surface series for Canadian-bred three-year-olds which will offer a new $500,000 bonus for a sweep. Wando, owned and bred by the late Gustav Schickedanz, was the last horse to accomplish the feat while becoming the seventh to pull […]

AN EARLY LOOK AT THE PROBABLE FIELD FOR THE 160TH RUNNING OF THE QUEEN’S PLATE (14) Horse / Trainer / Owner / Jockey Avie’s Flatter / Josie Carroll / Ivan Dalos / Javier Castellano Desert Ride (filly) / Neil Howard / Sam-Son Farm / Steven Bahen Federal Law / Mark Casse / Qatar Racing Limited / Jamie Spencer He’s a Macho Man / Josie Carroll / Di Scola Boys Stable / Patrick Husbands Jammin Still / Kevin Attard / Derek Chin / Alan Garcia Krachenwagen / Angus Buntain / Greenoaks Farm / Jeffrey Alderson Lucas n’ Lori / Kevin Attard […]

AN EARLY LOOK AT THE PROBABLE FIELD FOR THE 160TH RUNNING OF THE QUEEN’S PLATE (14) Horse / Trainer / Owner / Jockey Avie’s Flatter / Josie Carroll / Ivan Dalos / Javier Castellano Desert Ride (filly) / Neil Howard / Sam-Son Farm / Steven Bahen Federal Law / Mark Casse / Qatar Racing Limited / Jamie Spencer He’s a Macho Man / Josie Carroll / Di Scola Boys Stable / Patrick Husbands Jammin Still / Kevin Attard / Derek Chin / Alan Garcia Krachenwagen / Angus Buntain / Greenoaks Farm / Jeffrey Alderson Lucas n’ Lori / Kevin Attard […]

AN EARLY LOOK AT THE PROBABLE FIELD FOR THE 160TH RUNNING OF THE QUEEN’S PLATE (14) Horse / Trainer / Owner / Jockey Avie’s Flatter / Josie Carroll / Ivan Dalos / Javier Castellano Desert Ride (filly) / Neil Howard / Sam-Son Farm / Steven Bahen Federal Law / Mark Casse / Qatar Racing Limited / Jamie Spencer He’s a Macho Man / Josie Carroll / Di Scola Boys Stable / Patrick Husbands Jammin Still / Kevin Attard / Derek Chin / Alan Garcia Krachenwagen / Angus Buntain / Greenoaks Farm / Jeffrey Alderson Lucas n’ Lori / Kevin Attard […]

AN EARLY LOOK AT THE PROBABLE FIELD FOR THE 160TH RUNNING OF THE QUEEN’S PLATE (14) Horse / Trainer / Owner / Jockey Avie’s Flatter / Josie Carroll / Ivan Dalos / Javier Castellano Desert Ride (filly) / Neil Howard / Sam-Son Farm / Steven Bahen Federal Law / Mark Casse / Qatar Racing Limited / Jamie Spencer He’s a Macho Man / Josie Carroll / Di Scola Boys Stable / Patrick Husbands Jammin Still / Kevin Attard / Derek Chin / Alan Garcia Krachenwagen / Angus Buntain / Greenoaks Farm / Jeffrey Alderson Lucas n’ Lori / Kevin Attard […]

AN EARLY LOOK AT THE PROBABLE FIELD FOR THE 160TH RUNNING OF THE QUEEN’S PLATE (12) Horse / Trainer / Owner / Jockey Avie’s Flatter / Josie Carroll / Ivan Dalos / Javier Castellano Desert Ride (filly) / Neil Howard / Sam-Son Farm / Steven Bahen Federal Law / Mark Casse / Qatar Racing Limited / Jamie Spencer He’s a Macho Man / Josie Carroll / Di Scola Boys Stable / Patrick Husbands Krachenwagen / Angus Buntain / Greenoaks Farm / Jeffrey Alderson Lucas n’ Lori / Kevin Attard / Frank Cirillo / Kazushi Kimura Moon Swings / Michael De […]

OLG, G.H. Mumm, Lexus, J.P. Wisers, Stella Artois and Bubly to bring to life Canada’s must-attend summer event   TORONTO, ON, June 20, 2019– Woodbine Entertainment announced today the lineup of marquee brands that have signed on as official partners for the 160th running of the Queen’s Plate. One of Canada’s most prestigious horse racing events, the Queen’s Plate has become one of the must-attend Canadian events of the summer – known for its fashion, entertainment and world-class thoroughbred racing. The brands to be prominently featured at Woodbine Racetrack include OLG, G.H. Mumm, Lexus, Stella Artois, J.P Wisers, and Bubly. […]

AN EARLY LOOK AT THE PROBABLE FIELD FOR THE 160TH RUNNING OF THE QUEEN’S PLATE (12) Horse / Trainer / Owner / Jockey Avie’s Flatter / Josie Carroll / Ivan Dalos / Javier Castellano Desert Ride (filly) / Neil Howard / Sam-Son Farm / Steven Bahen Federal Law / Mark Casse / Qatar Racing Limited / Jamie Spencer He’s a Macho Man / Josie Carroll / Di Scola Boys Stable / Patrick Husbands Krachenwagen / Angus Buntain / Greenoaks Farm / Jeffrey Alderson Lucas n’ Lori / Kevin Attard / Frank Cirillo / Kazushi Kimura Moon Swings / Michael De […]

AN EARLY LOOK AT THE PROBABLE FIELD FOR THE 160TH RUNNING OF THE QUEEN’S PLATE (12) Horse / Trainer / Owner Avie’s Flatter / Josie Carroll / Ivan Dalos Desert Ride (filly) / Neil Howard / Sam-Son Farm Federal Law / Mark Casse / Qatar Racing Limited He’s a Macho Man / Josie Carroll / Di Scola Boys Stable Krachenwagen / Angus Buntain / Greenoaks Farm Lucas n’ Lori / Kevin Attard / Frank Cirillo Moon Swings / Michael De Paulo / Zilli Racing Stables One Bad Boy / Richard Baltas / Sayjay Racing LLC Pay for Peace / Rachel […]

TORONTO, June 14, 2019 – Whether she is offering horseplayers insights from the paddock or braving all elements to capture post-race reactions live from the winner’s circle, racing analyst Dawn Lupul always looks fabulous. Woodbine’s own style icon shares her summer fashion tips for the races and favourite looks from Queen’s Plate fashion partner Ever New Melbourne. *** The racetrack is the best place in the world to wear your finest clothes and enjoy the beautiful horses – and some planning around your chosen outfit can make all the difference in how the day goes. First, consider that you will [...]

TORONTO, June 11, 2019 – TSN and Woodbine Entertainment today announced that Canada’s Sports Leader will once again deliver live coverage of the country’s biggest horse racing events, highlighted by all three legs of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown. The chase for the OLG Canadian Triple Crown begins with the 160th running of the $1 million QUEEN’S PLATE, airing Saturday, June 29 at 4:30 p.m. ET on TSN and CTV, live from Toronto’s Woodbine Racetrack. A complete broadcast schedule is available here. The historic OLG Canadian Triple Crown, which is contested over three different distances and racing surfaces, continues with the […]

TORONTO, June 8, 2019 – Last of 10 through the first quarter, Desert Ride circled the field to win the 64th running of the $500,000 Woodbine Oaks Presented by Budweiser, the first leg of the Triple Tiara for Canada’s finest three-year-old fillies, on Saturday at Woodbine. Steve Bahen worked out the winning trip in the 1-1/8-mile feature aboard the Sam-Son Farm homebred, who reeled in the dueling front-runners Intanga Rose and Speedy Soul then collared late leader Bold Script at the wire in 1:50.43. “I’ve watched her races and she’s come from behind,” said Bahen, who was partnered with the […]

TORONTO, June 8, 2019 – Pay for Peace overtook 9-5 favourite Federal Law in mid-stretch to pull off a 19-1 upset in the $125,000 Plate Trial Stakes on Saturday afternoon at Woodbine. With Luis Contreras aboard for trainer Rachel Halden, the Silent Name-Dancing Bay gelding stepped up his game to notch his first stakes victory and entered the Queen’s Plate conversation. In the traditional prep for the first leg of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown, Federal Law emerged with the lead up the rail into the first turn and built up a four-length advantage on his foes through fractions of […]

TORONTO, June 5, 2019 – Trainer Mark Casse, who has two Queen’s Plate crowns on his outstanding racing résumé, sends out the battle-tested Federal Law in Saturday’s $125,000 Plate Trial Stakes, a traditional prep for Canada’s most famous race, the $1 million ‘Gallop for the Guineas,’ scheduled for June 29. A three-time winner from 10 starts, Federal Law, who began his racing career in the United Kingdom, enters Saturday’s 1 1/8-mile Plate Trial off a smart score in the Queenston Stakes on May 19 at Woodbine. Under Gary Boulanger, the Qatar Racing Limited silk-bearer endured a rough-and-tumble trip that began […]

Toronto, June 5, 2019 – Woodbine Entertainment announced today that the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. (OLG) will be returning as the official partner and title sponsor of Canada’s Triple Crown of Thoroughbred racing. As part of the partnership, a new $500,000 bonus is being offered if there is a winner of the OLG Canadian Triple Crown. The OLG Canadian Triple Crown for three-year-old Canadian-foaled Thoroughbreds consists of the $1 million Queen’s Plate (June 29 at Woodbine), $400,000 Prince of Wales Stakes (July 23 at Fort Erie Racetrack) and $400,000 Breeders’ Stakes (August 17 at Woodbine). The series is contested […]

TORONTO, May 30, 2019 – Woodbine Entertainment presents “The Photo Finish,” the official Queen’s Plate Style Guide for 2019. The Photo Finish was created and edited by local filmmaker Zach Ramelan, in partnership with Buffer Festival, and features a cast of prominent, young Canadian talent sporting fabulous fashion provided by David Dunkley Fine Millinery, Official Milliner of the Queen’s Plate, Ever New and GotStyle. The two-day Queen’s Plate Festival runs from Friday, June 28 to Saturday, June 29 at Woodbine, featuring the 160th running of the prestigious $1 million Queen’s Plate on Saturday, June 29. Live entertainment includes concerts headlined by […]

TORONTO, May 19, 2019 – After celebrating former Woodbine runner War of Will’s Preakness Stakes victory yesterday at Pimlico, Canadian Hall of Fame trainer Mark Casse carried his winning momentum into Sunday’s 10-race program at the Toronto oval with a grand slam including the featured $125,000 Queenston Stakes for three-year-olds. Casse has dominated recent stakes action at Woodbine, sweeping the trifecta in the Fury a week ago and taking the top two spots in Saturday’s Grade 3 Selene with Power Gal and Preferred Guest. Federal Law and My Silencer gave Casse another 1-2 stakes finish in Sunday’s seven-furlong Queenston for […]

TORONTO, May 16, 2019 – Fans across the country will have the opportunity to watch some of the top contenders for Canada’s most famous horse race, the Queen’s Plate, when they go postward in the $125,000 Queenston Stakes, Sunday at Woodbine. Five Plate-eligible horses will square off in the seven-furlong sprint for Canadian-foaled three-year-olds. The connections of Federal Law, 4-1 second choice in the Queen’s Plate Winterbook behind Avie’s Flatter (3-1), My Silencer (8-1, eighth spot), Dun Drum (25-1), Corduroy Road (30-1) and Souper Success (30-1) will all be hoping for encouraging results this Sunday ahead of the $1 million […]

By: Hayley Morrison for Woodbine Communications TORONTO, April 15, 2019 – She loves racing, has a passion for horses and is great at winning not just any race, but the historic races such as the Queen’s Plate. It should therefore come as no surprise that veteran horse conditioner Josie Carroll finds herself being inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame amongst a superb fleet of standout Thoroughbred trainers. Yet, with all her experience and numerous visits to the winner’s circle in the last couple of decades, Carroll is more than humble on learning about her induction into the […]

TORONTO, April 9, 2019 – Woodbine Entertainment announced today that Canadian country music duo High Valley will headline this year’s music line-up at the two-day Queen’s Plate Racing Festival with a live performance on the Hats & Horseshoes stage at Woodbine Racetrack on Saturday, June 29. High Valley, who just released their highly anticipated new single, “Single Man,” last week, will perform live on the second day of the festival at 8:30 p.m., following the 160th running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate. Growing up in La Crete, Alberta shaped High Valley brothers Brad and Curtis Rempel’s musical ideals and […]

TORONTO, April 6, 2019 – Canadian-bred three-year-old Avie’s Flatter, the early 2019 Queen’s Plate favourite, made his season’s debut a winning one in the $150,000 Kentucky Utilities Transylvania (Grade 3) on Friday at Keeneland. Owned by Ivan Dalos and trained by Josie Carroll, Avie’s Flatter and jockey Javier Castellano held off the late-charging favourite Henley’s Joy to win the 1 1/16 mile stakes event in 1:42.86 on a firm turf. “I really liked the way he did it today,” said Castellano in a post-race interview. “I’ll be honest, I’ve been studying the horse since last year. We rode against each other. I like […]

TORONTO, March 22, 2019 – Woodbine Entertainment has released the official logo for this summer’s iconic Queen’s Plate Racing Festival, which runs from June 28-29 at Woodbine Racetrack. For the first time, the logo incorporates the word “festival” recognizing the event’s growth in popularity as a full entertainment experience highlighted by the 160th running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate on Saturday, June 29. This year’s logo is fully engulfed in gold representing the prestige of the race with elegance and fashionable flair. The annual logo refresh commemorates each edition of the Queen’s Plate and is accompanied by a full […]

TORONTO, March 19, 2019 – Welcome to the 11th edition of the weekly Woodbine Snowbirds Report, now in its eighth year, chronicling the winter adventures of Woodbine-based trainers and jockeys currently plying their trade south of the border. This week, we check in with trainer Mike Keogh, who has his 21-horse stable at Aiken Training Track in Aiken, South Carolina for the winter. Keogh said the weather in Aiken has been a bit cooler than in years past, but training is going well. “It’s been pretty good,” he said. “The weather hasn’t been that brilliant. We haven’t missed that many days. […]

TORONTO, March 18, 2019 – The Washboard Union, who will headline the opening day of the Queen’s Plate Racing Festival this summer at Woodbine Racetrack, earned their first JUNO Award as Breakthrough Group of the Year this past weekend in London, Ont. “Our hearts are literally exploding tonight as we won our first @thejunoawards for Breakthrough Group of the Year,” the group wrote in an Instagram post following the awards ceremony that celebrates the country’s biggest achievements in Canadian music. “We are blessed to have an army of passionate people behind us that make this life possible.” https://www.instagram.com/p/BvFy1kFBI-A/ Check out The Washboard Union’s exclusive […]

TORONTO, March 15, 2019 – The Washboard Union appeared on KX96 New Country FM earlier this week to discuss their upcoming Queen’s Plate performance, their new single “She Gets Me” and their JUNO Award nomination with morning show host Jerry Archer. The Washboard Union will open this year’s Queen’s Plate Racing Festival at Woodbine Racetrack with a live performance on Friday, June 28. The 160th running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate will be contested on Saturday, June 29.  For more information or to purchase tickets to the Queen’s Plate Racing Festival, visit QueensPlate.com.

TORONTO, March 13, 2019 – The JUNO Award-nominated country music group The Washboard Union will be among the featured musical acts to headline this year’s Queen’s Plate Racing Festival, which runs from June 28-29 at Woodbine Racetrack. Fronted by step-brothers Aaron Grain & Chris Duncombe and their best friend David John Roberts, The Washboard Union will take the stage at 8 p.m. on the opening day of Canada’s premier racing festival this summer on Friday, June 28. Already of winner of 24 country music awards, the Canadian band is nominated in the Breakthrough Group of the Year category at this […]

TORONTO, March 8, 2019 – Avie’s Flatter leads a list of 84 three-year-old Thoroughbreds nominated to the Canadian Triple Crown, which opens with the $1 million Queen’s Plate on Saturday, June 29 at Woodbine Racetrack. Avie’s Flatter has been assessed as the early 3-1 favourite in this year’s edition of the Queen’s Plate Winterbook. Compiled by Ron Gierkink and Alex Campbell of the Daily Racing Form, the hypothetical Winterbook offers an early look at the 84 three-year-olds, including 11 fillies, that are nominated to the 2019 Canadian Triple Crown. In addition, a total of 59 fillies have been nominated to the 64th running of the $500,000 Woodbine Oaks Presented by Budweiser, the first leg of the Triple Tiara, which is scheduled for Saturday, June […]

Million-dollar Queen’s Plate and Ricoh Woodbine Mile headline 2019 Thoroughbred stakes schedule  Woodbine’s new inner turf course scheduled to open this spring TORONTO, February 19, 2019 – Woodbine Entertainment has unveiled its stakes schedule for the 2019 Thoroughbred racing season highlighted by the prestigious $1 million Queen’s Plate and the $1 million Ricoh Woodbine Mile, which will kick off Woodbine’s championship fall turf season. The grand opening of Woodbine’s new inner turf course this spring will add a new level of excitement and competition to the mix. Strengthened by the previously announced purse increases for 2019, the $16 million-plus stakes […]

TORONTO, December 6, 2018 – Tickets are on sale now for the 2019 Queen’s Plate Racing Festival, which will run from Friday, June 28 to Saturday, June 29 at Woodbine Racetrack. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.ca for Canada’s premier horse racing festival, which culminates with the 160th running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate stakes race on June 29. The Queen’s Plate Racing Festival is a favourite among fashionistas and sports fans alike, attracting thousands of stylish spectators for an unmatched experience highlighted by world-class horse racing at Woodbine. Established in 1860, the prestigious Queen’s Plate is the first […]

TORONTO, November 29, 2018 – Woodbine Entertainment announced today that the 160th running of the $1 million Queen’s Plate, first jewel of the Canadian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto. North America’s oldest continuously-run stakes event showcasing Canada’s top three-year-old Thoroughbreds is the highlight of Woodbine’s Queen’s Plate Festival. Annually one of Toronto’s must-attend events of the summer, the 2019 Queen’s Plate Racing Festival will begin on Friday, June 28 and run through Saturday, June 29. The fashion-forward festival will feature world-class horse racing, live entertainment and delicious […]