Woodbine Entertainment and HBPA reach new 2-year deal

Season Opens on April 26

March 26, 2025

TORONTO, March 26, 2025 – Woodbine Entertainment and the Horsemen’s

Benevolent and Protective Association of Ontario (HBPA) jointly announced

today 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 upcoming 2025 season kicks off on Saturday, April 26 and concludes on

Sunday, December 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,” said Michael Copeland, CEO of

Woodbine Entertainment. “We understand and appreciate that many horse

people 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.

“On behalf of Woodbine and our Board of Directors, I would like to thank the

HBPA and its Board, and especially its negotiation committee, for working

diligently towards a positive result for the Woodbine racing community.”

"Reaching an agreement allows our horse people to plan and move forward. 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,” said

HBPA President, Sue Leslie. “We embrace open dialogue with Woodbine and

remain hopeful for the future. Thank you to our owners and trainers for their

patience and support.”

The 2025 season at Woodbine Racetrack will be highlighted by the 166th

running of the $1 million King’s Plate on Saturday, August 16. The full stakes

schedule will be announced shortly.