by Ashley Mayotte, WEG Communications

Toronto, ON — When the bell rings on Sunday (September 9), races of a two-legged variety will break from the starting gate in support of a worthy cause. Woodbine Racetrack will host the 14th edition of its popular Woodbine Turf Races to benefit the United Way Toronto.

What began as a little race between employees has grown to an event that last year helped to raise more than C$100,000 for the United Way Toronto, attracting participation from Woodbine Entertainment Group employees, United Way member agencies and business partners.

“We are excited about the changes to this year’s charity Turf Races,” explains Nick Eaves, WEG’s President and CEO. “For the first time, the public has been invited to join in this exclusive fundraising event. Not only does it showcase Woodbine’s world class racing facilities but it allows the participants to experience the thrill of horse racing and raise money for a worthy cause.”

WEG matches all the money raised by its employees dollar for dollar.

The first 200 people to register at www.unitedwaytoronto.com/woodbine will be able to run/walk in a fun 5K race that highlights the backstretch and infield. The route will include: a start behind a moving Standardbred starting gate, two laps of Woodbine’s seven-eighths stone-dust Standardbred race track, through two tunnels, and finish at the finish wire on the E.P. Taylor Turf course.

WEG has donated more than C$6 million into its local community since 1998, adopting a progressive and leading Corporate Social Responsibility agenda that is firmly woven into the fabric of its organization. By doing so, WEG has enhanced its reputation as an innovative and insightful leader, earning industry recognition, multiple awards and customer respect for its actions that serve the greater good. For more information on WEG’s CSR initiatives go to www.racingtowardsabetterfuture.com.

How to Register:

• Go to www.unitedwaytoronto.com/woodbine
• Minimum fundraising required to start: $50/person
• For last year’s video go to www.youtube.com/woodbineturfraces