After 17 years of dedication, innovation and leadership, Executive Vice President of Racing Jamie Martin has announced that he will retire from Woodbine Entertainment Group at the conclusion of the 2017 Thoroughbred meet in December.
Jamie came to Woodbine in 2000 from Western Fair to serve as WEG’s Vice-President of Standardbred Racing. Six years later, he began to define racing policy and strategy for both breeds in his current role.
Jamie’s accomplishments are too long to list in their entirety, however a few highlights include substantially improving the quality of WEG’s racing products and becoming the first Chairman of the Board for the Standardbred Alliance, which help to stabilize Ontario's harness racing industry.
“I am proud to be part of a team that achieved so much during my 17 years at Woodbine and Mohawk,” said Martin. “I want to acknowledge my WEG colleagues and our horsepeople and thank them for their enthusiasm and passion in making our racing among the best in the world. I will continue to focus on developing our racing and wagering products for the next eight months and ensure a smooth transition to the new racing management team that will take Ontario racing to another level.”
Jamie’s leadership has helped position Mohawk and Woodbine Racetracks as premium destinations for world-class horse racing and are viewed as top echelon courses across North America and beyond.
“Jamie has provided WEG and Ontario’s horse racing industry overall with tremendous vision, a steady hand and tireless work ethic in the pursuit of greatness,” said WEG CEO, Jim Lawson. “His stamp on the company will be felt for years to come and his relationships with colleagues and industry stakeholders will last a lifetime. We will continue to rely on his guidance to help set a course for the sport’s future in the province.”
Martin’s final day will be December 10, 2017.
(WEG)
A fine gentleman with a smart
A fine gentleman with a smart mind, a kind heart and a wonderful soulfulness. Jamie Martin set the standard.
This is a previous loss to
This is a previous loss to the sport - in my opinion one that we cannot afford to absorb. I echo Jack Darling's comments. I'm sure Jamie has his reasons, but I find it difficult to digest.
This is a huge loss for all
This is a huge loss for all of horse racing. Jamie is the most knowledgeable person in the business regarding all aspects of horse racing. Most people have no idea of the contributions that Jamie has made to racing both inside and outside of WEG. I know I am not alone when I say I will miss his intelligence, common sense and professionalism. JAMIE, I am sad to see you go but wish you the best in retirement.