Woodbine’s Queen’s Plate to become King’s Plate, Charles III invited to event

Woodbine Entertainment announced that the prestigious Queen’s Plate race would now be known as The King’s Plate following the ascension of King Charles III.

A spokesperson says The King’s Plate thoroughbred horse race will be held on Aug. 20, 2023, at Woodbine Racetrack, noting that Charles has been invited to attend the event.

“The Plate is one of the most celebrated events in horse racing, and we’re proud to celebrate its history while starting a new chapter under The King’s Plate,” said Jim Lawson, CEO of Woodbine Entertainment.

“Those who attend can expect more than elite-level horse racing. They can soak in the elements of food, fashion and culture that have become associated with this prestigious annual event while enjoying moments designed for a new generation of race fans. We’re excited to share more details about The King’s Plate in the months to come.”

Following the succession of King Edward VII in 1901, the annual event changed its name to The King’s Plate before returning to The Queen’s Plate (Queen Elizabeth II) in 1952, the moniker it held for the last 70 years.

Lawson says Woodbine Entertainment plans to celebrate and honour the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2023.

The Plate is the first leg of the Canadian Triple Crown and is followed by the Prince of Wales Stakes run at Fort Erie Race Track and the Breeders’ Stakes run at Woodbine Racetrack.

The Plate is typically held in June or July, but in 2020 the race was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Woodbine then elected to run the 2021 and 2022 editions of the race in August.

Moira is the reigning winner, jockeyed by Rafael M. Hernandez.