Woodbine cancelled its Friday races due to poor air quality from wildfires in the area, the racetrack said in a press release.
Environment Canada's air quality index for Toronto was listed as 'High Risk' Friday and was expected to remain at that level throughout the day. As of Thursday, the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Center said 201 fires were burning in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario, with half of them considered “out of control.”
Woodbine Entertainment's decision to cancel came through consultation with the HBPA and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and was consistent with the AGCO's air quality guidelines.
According to the Woodbine release, the cancellation “was made in the best interests of the health and safety of the horses and racing participants.”
The track will continue to monitor the situation into the weekend and provide updates as required.
10 races are scheduled for Saturday with first post at 1:05 p.m. ET.
BREAKING: Today's card of live racing @WoodbineTB has been CANCELLED due to poor air quality.
Woodbine's decision to cancel comes through consultation with the HBPA and is consistent with the AGCO's air quality guidelines.
Live Racing is scheduled to resume tomorrow.
— Woodbine Communications (@WoodbineComms) June 6, 2025
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