Woodbine Entertainment made a $20,000 donation to the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society (OSAS), one of its key aftercare partners, on Saturday, June 14.
Woodbine stated that the increased funding, up from $5,000 annually, reflects its strengthened commitment to equine aftercare and the long-term well-being of Standardbred athletes. As Canada’s leading horse racing operator, Woodbine believes that a racehorse’s care should extend well beyond their racing career. OSAS plays a critical role in retraining and rehoming retired Standardbreds, helping them transition into second careers as pleasure horses, companions and therapy animals. This enhanced support will directly fund veterinary care, retraining programs and placement services for horses in the program.
“This increased funding reflects our deep commitment to the horses that give so much to our sport,” said Michael Copeland, CEO of Woodbine Entertainment. “OSAS has a proven track record of providing retired Standardbreds with safe, meaningful futures, and we are proud to strengthen our support of their incredible work.”
The donation was officially presented to OSAS during the opening ceremonies of the Pepsi North America Cup at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Saturday night — one of the most prestigious nights of the Standardbred racing season in Canada — underscoring Woodbine’s ongoing commitment to horse care at every stage of their careers.
Since its inception in 1996, OSAS has found loving homes for thousands of retired racehorses, earning recognition as Ontario’s premier Standardbred aftercare organization.
“The Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society is incredibly grateful for this generous donation from Woodbine Entertainment,” said Joanne Colville, Administrator of OSAS. “For 29 years, OSAS and Woodbine have had a strong working relationship that has benefitted both organizations and, most importantly, the horses. With more horses than usual in our care right now, these funds will go a long way to help retrain them and place them in forever, loving homes.”
This increased investment in OSAS is part of a broader, renewed focus on the horse racing community through Woodbine Cares, Woodbine’s philanthropic initiative. More details on new equine and industry support programs will be announced in the coming days.
(With files from Woodbine)