Mother Nature has forced King’s Plate organizers to postpone Canada’s biggest horse race until Friday.
The remainder of Saturday’s card at Toronto’s Woodbine Racetrack, including the first jewel of Canada’s Triple Crown, was cancelled in the afternoon after heavy rain made a mess of the track.
Eight of 13 races were called off due to unsafe track conditions.
The track is not far from areas where some motorists had to abandon their cars during a heavy downpour hours earlier in the west end of Toronto and Mississauga, Ont.
The Plate, now in its 165th year, is North America’s oldest continuously run stakes race.
The Price of Wales Stakes, the second jewel of the Triple Crown, is scheduled for Sept. 10 at Fort Erie Race Track, followed by the Breeders’ Stakes on Sept. 29 at Woodbine.
The annual King’s Plate horse racing event, which was scheduled to take place this weekend, has been rescheduled due to a severe storm that is expected to hit the area. The decision to postpone the event was made in the interest of the safety of the horses, jockeys, and spectators.
The King’s Plate is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the country, drawing top horses and jockeys from around the world. The event typically attracts large crowds and generates significant revenue for the local economy.
However, with the impending storm set to bring heavy rain and strong winds, organizers felt it was necessary to reschedule the event to ensure the safety of all involved. The decision was not made lightly, as rescheduling such a high-profile event can be logistically challenging and costly.
Despite the disappointment of having to postpone the event, organizers are working diligently to secure a new date that will allow the King’s Plate to take place later in the season. They are also exploring options to accommodate those who have already purchased tickets for the original date.
In the meantime, fans of horse racing are encouraged to stay tuned for updates on the rescheduled date of the King’s Plate. Organizers are committed to ensuring that the event goes ahead in a safe and enjoyable manner, and are grateful for the understanding and support of all involved.
Ultimately, while the rescheduling of the King’s Plate may be disappointing for some, the safety and well-being of all involved must take precedence. By taking proactive measures in response to severe weather conditions, organizers are demonstrating their commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism in the world of horse racing.