The pounding hooves and cheering crowds of Woodbine Racecourse will take on a heartfelt purpose this Saturday, as Woodbine Entertainment hosts its fifth annual Woodbine Aftercare Day in support of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA). Beyond the thrill of the races, the day is set to shine a spotlight on the care and futures of horses who have given their all on the track.
The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, a leading North American organization, works tirelessly to accredit, inspect, and award grants to approved organizations that retrain, retire, and rehome Thoroughbreds after their racing careers conclude. Locally, the LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society in Hillsburgh, Ontario, will serve as Woodbine’s accredited partner, ensuring these champions find fulfilling second lives.
The racing card itself promises excitement, featuring marquee events like the Grade 1 Canadian International, the Grade 2 bet365 Dance Smartly Stakes, and the Grade 2 Nearctic Stakes, the latter presented by TAA. Stakes races on Saturday will also see the Best Turned-Out Horse Awards, generously sponsored by Josham Farms Limited, adding an extra layer of recognition for elegance and presentation.
In a touching gesture, jockeys and valets have the option to donate portions of their purse earnings to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance throughout the day. “Dedicating a day to aftercare, with on-site engagement, Best Turned-Out Horse Awards, and a named race, provides an impactful platform to highlight this important cause,” said Stacie Clark-Rogers, Operations Consultant for TAA.
Woodbine Entertainment will also make a charitable contribution to TAA, reaffirming the track’s ongoing commitment to equine welfare both on and off the turf. “Our community here at Woodbine is thrilled to welcome the team from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance for Woodbine Aftercare Day,” said Martha Wakely, Director of Thoroughbred Racing Operations. “It is our honour to celebrate and support the aftercare of racehorses.”
This special day at Woodbine underscores the vital connection between racing and responsible aftercare, reminding fans and participants alike that every horse’s journey extends beyond the finish line.
Read more about Woodbine Aftercare Day 2025 RaceBuzz.
