Copeland takes the reins from Jim Lawson, who has been named Executive Chair of the Board of Directors and will step down as CEO this fall.
Jim Lawson
Lawson has been with Woodbine for 15 years and CEO for eight years, guiding two tracks successfully through many challenges.
Michael Copeland has been promoted to President, Commercial, and Tom Via moves to the role of President, Operations.
Single sports wagering came to Canada five weeks ago but horse racing, a pari-mutuel wagering sport, has not yet been included.
One of Canada's top 2-year-olds of 2021 is scheduled to begin her sophomore campaign at Tampa Bay Downs on March 12.
The good news is, wagering on Woodbine racing in 2021 will be up marginally but that growth has come from the U.S.
The Woodbine CEO is being inducted as an athlete and builder due to his contributions to hockey, football and horse racing.
Last year the show cumulatively reached more than 2.4 million viewers, showcasing racing to a new audience in 2020.
A closed session of 'Stronger Together' on May 19 addressed the current state of racing in Ontario and development plans for Woodbine.
In an edition of Stronger Together, Woodbine Entertainment president and CEO Jim Lawson is confident racing will get going in the province.
Lawson appeals for the prompt beginning to the 2021 Thoroughbred season, as delays have serious implications for horse racing.
CTHS (ONT) members are being asked to write to their MPPs to bring awareness in an effort to allow the resumption of horse racing in Ontario.
Concerted efforts to convince the Government of Ontario that the final days of the meet could safely be completed were unsuccessful.
Woodbine Entertainment CEO provides news on the Stage 3 Reopening Plan, capsaicin positives, foreign participants, racing silks, and more.
The HBPA of Ontario and Woodbine's CEO Jim Lawson emphasize to horsepeople the importance of continuing to social distance and wear masks as racing nears.
