With some of the most recognizable racetracks in the nation, where champions are crowned and customs are upheld, Canada is a prestigious location for thoroughbred horse racing. Canadian racetracks blend a rich history with athletic prowess, from the iconic circuits in Ontario to the picturesque tracks on the West Coast. These esteemed locations have had a big impact on horse betting all over the country, developing into important centers of the economy and adored arenas that draw millions of fans annually.
1. Fort Erie Race Track, Ontario (1897)
Known as "the border oval" due to its location near the U.S. border, Fort Erie Race Track opened on June 16, 1897. Initially operating under limited racing meets due to the Millar Law of 1918, its transformation began when Canadian horseman E.P. Taylor acquired it in 1952, expanding the season and beautifying the grounds. The track is renowned for hosting the Prince of Wales Stakes, the second leg of the Canadian Triple Crown, and launching the career of legendary Northern Dancer in 1963.
2. Assiniboia Downs, Manitoba (1958)
Assiniboia Downs was constructed rapidly in 1957-58 as a modern replacement for the Polo Park Racetrack. It featured innovations like a wide racing surface and a real-time betting tote machine, setting technological standards for the era. The track has remained home to Manitoba racing favorites and pioneered off-track betting broadcasts since 1987, now embracing television and internet platforms.
3. Hastings Racecourse, British Columbia (1889)
Originally named East Park, Hastings Racecourse is Vancouver's longest continuously operating professional sports venue. Opening in 1889, it became the first site to implement the electric starting gate in thoroughbred racing in 1939. The track is celebrated for key events such as BC Cup Day and the British Columbia Derby, maintaining a rich racing heritage through over a century.
4. Blue Bonnets Raceway (Hippodrome de Montréal), Quebec (1907-2009)
Operating for 137 years before closing in 2009, Blue Bonnets was a cornerstone of Quebec racing culture. Founded in 1907, its golden era under Jean-Louis Levesque saw major investment and the establishment of the Quebec Derby. The track was culturally significant, becoming a weekend tradition for families and named to honor the 77th Highland Regiment.
5. Woodbine Racetrack, Ontario (1956, with heritage to 1874)
Woodbine Racetrack, inaugurated in 1956, continues the legacy of Toronto's original Woodbine Race Course dating back to 1874. It hosts Canada's oldest thoroughbred race, the King's Plate (dating to 1860), recognized as North America’s longest continuously run stakes race. Under E.P. Taylor's expansion, Woodbine became a consolidated modern racing hub with multiple racecourses and the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame, serving as the sport’s national headquarters.
There are more interesting articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.
