Woodbine racetracks closing to general public for minimum of two weeks

TORONTO – Woodbine Mohawk Park and Woodbine Racetrack will be closed to the general public starting tomorrow for a minimum of two weeks.

Woodbine Entertainment, which operates the two racetracks, made the decision following the recommendation of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer to suspend all large events and public gatherings.

Live harness racing at Mohawk Park in Milton, Ont., will continue as scheduled but without spectators and only essential staff.

Woodbine Entertainment does not operate the casinos in either of its properties.

Elements Casino at Woodbine Mohawk Park and Casino Woodbine at Woodbine Racetrack remain open and any updates will be provided directly from the operators of the casinos.

As an additional precaution, Woodbine Entertainment is screening all horsepeople entering the paddocks at the two facilities, which will also have highly restricted access for licensed personnel only.

Plans to open the thoroughbred season remain scheduled for April 18 but are subject to an ongoing assessment of the situation.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 14, 2020.