On Friday, Feb. 27 Woodbine Entertainment announced it has formally submitted a bid to host the prestigious Hambletonian at Woodbine Mohawk Park beginning in 2027.
Widely regarded as harness racing’s most iconic event, The Hambletonian showcases the sport’s top three-year-old trotters and serves as one of the premier days on the international Standardbred calendar with now over 100 years of tradition.
“Hosting the Hambletonian would be a transformative moment for our organization and the Ontario Standardbred racing industry,” said Michael Copeland, CEO of Woodbine. “Woodbine is committed to delivering the very best in world-class horse racing and has a proven track record of executing major international racing events. We believe our venue, our fan experience, and our commitment to innovation makes Woodbine Mohawk Park an ideal host site starting in 2027.”
Woodbine Mohawk Park is North America’s premier harness racing venue, already delivering an industry-leading stakes program and generating the highest annual wagering total of any Standardbred racetrack on the continent.
The Hambletonian Society and Woodbine Entertainment have a successful longstanding relationship through the Breeders Crown. Since the launch of the Breeders Crown series in 1984, Woodbine has hosted more Breeders Crown races than any other racetrack operator with 176. The most recent Breeders Crown was held to great success in October at Woodbine Mohawk Park.
“Bringing The Hambletonian to Woodbine Mohawk Park would be tremendous for our sport,” said Brad Grant, two-time Hambletonian winning owner and Woodbine Board member. “Woodbine knows how to host big events and consistently provides an outstanding experience for owners, trainers, drivers and fans alike. The strength of the racing program, the modern facilities, and a passionate fan base make this the perfect stage to host The Hambletonian.”
Woodbine has received industry recognition for its state-of-the-art racing surface and facilities, broadcast capabilities, and fan-focused amenities. The track annually stages some of the sport’s most prestigious races, drawing top competitors and audiences from across the globe.
The bid submitted by Woodbine outlines a comprehensive vision for Hambletonian Day that includes the framework for one of deepest race cards ever assembled, fan festivals, expanded wagering opportunities, widespread simulcast distribution and promotional initiatives designed to grow the event’s reach and impact.
If awarded, Woodbine Entertainment would work closely with industry partners, participants, sponsors, and community stakeholders to ensure the Hambletonian’s rich traditions are honored while introducing new elements to engage the next generation of fans.
(Woodbine)