Woodbine Plans to Run Queen's Plate in August

After last year moving the Queen's Plate Stakes from its traditional date in late June to Sept. 12 because of COVID-19 protocols, Woodbine plans this year to again offer the first jewel of the Canadian Triple Crown in late summer.

Woodbine Entertainment announced Jan. 12 that it plans to run the Queen's Plate Aug. 22, hoping the summer date will allow spectators to attend.

The 2020 Queen's Plate was moved to late summer and run Sept. 12 without spectators because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the spectator restrictions, beloved one-eyed runner Mighty Heart captured the hearts of sports fans with a victory. 

Last year's historic Queen's Plate produced the third-highest wagering handle in its history with wagering largely coming from off-track sources.

"While it is clear the impact of COVID-19 will continue to be felt into the new year, we are optimistic that this timing for The Queen's Plate could give us the best opportunity to welcome guests back at Woodbine Racetrack for the most exciting event on the Canadian horse racing calendar," said Woodbine Entertainment president and CEO Jim Lawson in a release. "We look forward to the 2021 racing season and the opportunity to restore The Queen's Plate as one of the top social events in Toronto."

Details regarding attendance and ticket sales will be announced in the coming months, along with Woodbine's full Thoroughbred stakes schedule for its 2021 meet, which is expected to begin April 17.

"Woodbine has successfully demonstrated our commitment to the health and safety of our staff, participants, and guests throughout these unprecedented times," Lawson said. "We will continue to practice our industry-leading guidelines and entertainment offerings to ensure another world-class Queen's Plate experience in 2021."

The Queen's Plate is traditionally the first leg of the Canadian Triple Crown, a series for Canadian-foaled 3-year-olds over the same distances as the American Triple Crown, but contested over three different racing surfaces. The Queen's Plate is run over 1 1/4 miles on Woodbine's Tapeta synthetic surface, the Prince of Wales Stakes at Fort Erie follows at 1 3/16 miles on dirt, and the Breeders' Stakes is over 1 1/2 miles on turf at Woodbine.

Nominations for the Canadian Triple Crown are due Feb. 1.