Canada back racing

Harness racing’s been confirmed as the first major sport to return to live competition in Canada.

Mohawk Park in Ontario will resume on Friday June 5, after being shut down by COVID-19 on March 19.

"The horse racing industry supports tens of thousands of jobs throughout our province, making the return of live racing this weekend very meaningful for a lot of people," said Jim Lawson, the chief executive of Woodbine Entertainment. "We have spent a significant amount of time and resources developing and implementing physical distancing protocols to protect against the spread of COVID-19. While we take great pride in being the first pro sport back competing in Canada, we also recognize that comes with a big responsibility. We are absolutely committed to operating our live racing with safety as the highest priority."

Like many other venues the racecourse will be closed to spectators and media, with only essential personnel allowed.

Canada’s decision comes just days after Meadowlands announced a return to racing in New Jersey will also take place this weekend, while other tracks in the United States have been up and going already, including Northfield Park in Ohio.