David S. Willmot, Chairman of Woodbine Entertainment Group (WEG) publicly announced on Thursday the appointment of Nick Eaves as the company's Chief Executive Officer, effective June 4, 2010

. Mr. Eaves succeeds Mr. Willmot who has served as Chief Executive Officer since 1995.

"It is a luxury for any company to be in the position to promote a new CEO from within," said Mr. Willmot. “The board has great confidence in Nick’s ability to lead our company in the years ahead at a time when our industry, like others, is facing significant challenges. Nick’s experience in so many aspects of our company’s operations and his demonstrated vision and good judgment will stand this company and our industry in good stead.”

Having held progressively senior positions with the company, Mr. Eaves had served as President and Chief Operating Officer since 2006. He is a Director of Woodbine Entertainment Group, the Vice Chair of Tourism Toronto and is on the board of directors of numerous industry organizations.

"It is a great honour for me to follow David as CEO of Woodbine Entertainment Group,” said Mr. Eaves. “He has transformed the company into the recognized leader in the North American horse racing industry. I intend to continue that performance and lead our talented team in new ways to confront today's challenges and, importantly, capitalize on the many opportunities which we have before us."

WEG is the largest operator of horse racing in Canada and is recognized as one of the most innovative in North America. It is the only not-for-profit corporation that is a member of Imagine Canada, a national program that promotes public and corporate giving, volunteerism and support to the community.

WEG owns and operates Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, ON; Mohawk Racetrack in Campbellville, ON; 27 off-track wagering operations through its Champions Off-Track Wagering network; Greenwood Teletheatre and Turf Lounge in downtown Toronto, ON; WEGZ Stadium Bar in Vaughan, ON; HorsePlayer Interactive, an extensive telephone, internet and wireless account wagering system and; HPItv, a 24 hour horse racing television network.

(WEG)