While the Ontario government has yet to lift the COVID-19 stay-at-home order issued on April 8, officials at Woodbine have begun to take the necessary steps to kick off their 2021 live race meeting, targeting June 5 as its anticipated opening day.
The meet was scheduled to begin on April 17 but was delayed due to a spike in COVID-19 cases and the government’s lockdown order that shut down virtually all indoor and outdoor activities.
Operating under the assumption that restrictions will be eased in late May or early June as COVID-19 vaccinations rise and new cases decline, preparations for the opening of live racing are under way to help trainers have their horses and staff ready to go.
Track officials now estimate that 75% of essential frontline horse people have received at least their first vaccination dose, with many workers taking advance of a Pop-Up Vaccine Clinic at Woodbine last weekend.
“As I have mentioned to media and government officials, I am growing tired of offering hope,” Lawson wrote in his message to horse people.