There has been a good amount of discussion over the past few years in regard to expanding the casino offerings at Woodbine Racetrack, yet not so much when it comes to Mohawk Racetrack. Jim Lawson, the new chief executive office that oversees both facilities, has now commented on expansion at Mohawk.

Lawson’s comments have come via an item on thoroughbredracing.com. The piece focuses on ‘seven reasons Woodbine may have a bright future after all.’ Mohawk’s alternative gaming is mentioned within the ‘casino expansion’ aspect of the note, although that point is more focused on expansion at the Toronto track.

The piece cites Lawson as saying that casino expansion plans have not been approved for Mohawk, but that Lawson’s goal is bring casino expansion to the Campbellville raceway.

The report goes on to explain that the municipality of Milton – in which Campbellville is located – has already approved zoning for casino expansion at Mohawk, even though the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. has yet to give any type of green light for such a project.

Lawson also commented on other interesting aspects in the piece. He states that the Woodbine Entertainment Group had to raise its takeout rates on the recent Breeders’ Cup for Thoroughbreds in order to not take a loss on wagers, and that being ‘new and innovative’ is part of the cultural vision for the company.

Lawson stated, “I think that’s the way horse racing is going to survive in this province – by being new and innovative – and that's part of our cultural vision and our vision, generally, as a company."

(With files from thoroughbredracing.com)

Related Stories

• WEG Expansion Plan Scaled Back
• Possible Mohawk Expansion Passes Hurdles