What is the Woodbine Mile?
The Woodbine Mile is a prestigious Grade 1 turf race held annually at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, Canada. As the name suggests, the race is contested over a distance of one mile (8 furlongs) on the turf course and is open to horses aged three and older.
Usually run in September, the Woodbine Mile is one of the premier turf races in North America and serves as a major prep race for the Breeders’ Cup Mile. It is part of the Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” Challenge Series, meaning the winner earns an automatic berth into the Mile.
Over time, the race has developed an international reputation, attracting top horses from both the U.S. and Europe.
History and Evolution
The Woodbine Mile was first run in 1988 under the name Molson Export Challenge. It was originally a dirt race restricted to Canadian-bred horses, but in 1997 it transitioned to turf and was opened to international competition.
Since the surface change, the race has rapidly increased in prestige, eventually earning Grade 1 status. Its turf configuration and position on the calendar make it especially attractive to connections pointing to the Breeders’ Cup.
Race Conditions and Style
The race is run around one turn on Woodbine’s expansive E.P. Taylor Turf Course, known for its long, sweeping turns and wide stretch. These conditions typically allow for a fair race, giving horses from a variety of running styles a chance to shine.
While pace can sometimes dictate outcomes, the turf layout and one-turn mile often reward horses with tactical speed and the ability to quicken in the final quarter mile.
Woodbine’s weather in September can be variable, so ground conditions may range from firm to yielding, adding another layer of nuance when analyzing contenders.
Notable Winners
The Woodbine Mile has been won by some of the most accomplished turf runners in modern history, including:
- Wise Dan (2012 and 2013), a two-time Horse of the Year and fan favorite
- World Approval (2017), who used the race as a springboard to win the Breeders’ Cup Mile
- Tepin (2016), one of the most dominant turf mares of her generation
- Modern Games (2022), a European raider who won the Breeders’ Cup Mile later that year
The race frequently attracts international talent and has become a proving ground for Breeders’ Cup contenders.
International Appeal
Because the race is turf-based and offers a direct path to the Breeders’ Cup, it often draws entries from top stables in Europe as well as leading American turf outfits. Its international flavor and strong purse make it a can’t-miss event on the fall calendar.
With the Breeders’ Cup Mile also contested over turf at a similar distance, many horses use this race as a final test against high-level competition.
Final Thoughts
The Woodbine Mile blends Canadian tradition with global competition. It’s a Grade 1 turf event that regularly showcases some of the most exciting milers in the sport and offers direct implications for year-end championships.
To track top turf performances and results from Woodbine and other elite tracks, visit the EquinEdge Results page for real-time updates and deeper insights.
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