Woodbine reorganizes amid 'economic headwinds'

Citing "industry and economic headwinds," Woodbine Entertainment reorganized its personnel and laid off an undisclosed number of employees.

Woodbine operates in Ontario, with its flagship property in the Toronto area conducting Thoroughbred racing through Dec. 14 and a Woodbine Mohawk Standardbred facility about 20 miles southwest in Milton.

"We have made some difficult but necessary organizational changes," Woodbine vice president of communications Jamie Dykstra said in an email Wednesday. "These adjustments are part of a broader realignment to ensure we are well-positioned to deliver on our five-year strategic plan and continue strengthening our business for the long term."

Through Wednesday, Woodbine has conducted 111 Thoroughbred race dates this year, the same as in 2024 through this date. But the number of races is down 2%. Total handle is down 5.2%, and purses are up 1.5%. These figures are approximate because of changing currency exchange rates.

Woodbine's share of the overall Thoroughbred market has actually increased slightly, 0.34%, despite the decrease in handle. Total handle in North America is down 10.4% this year.

"We remain unwavering in our commitment to Ontario's horse-racing industry and to operating world-class racing at Woodbine Racetrack and Woodbine Mohawk Park," Dykstra said.