Fort Erie Race Track’s signature event hits major milestone
Fort Erie Race Track, FEO, March 20, 2025, VOL. 6 ISSUE 14
Fort Erie Race Track, a cornerstone of Canadian horseracing since 1897, is proud to announce
the upcoming 90th running of the Prince of Wales Stakes, the second jewel of the Canadian
Triple Crown. This milestone event is set to take place on Tuesday, Sept. 9, at the historic
border oval, promising a thrilling showcase of Canada’s finest three-year-old thoroughbreds
competing for a $400,000 purse and a chance to gallop into the history books.
As Niagara’s most prestigious sporting event, the Prince of Wales Stakes will once again draw
horse racing enthusiasts from across the country to take in the grandeur of Fort Erie’s
picturesque track. Contested over a distance of 1 mile and 3/16ths, the race continues its legacy
as a centerpiece between the King’s Plate, the first leg of the Crown which is being run at
Woodbine Racetrack on Aug. 16, and the Breeders’ Stakes, which closes out the trio of races.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the 90th Prince of Wales Stakes, a testament to Fort Erie’s rich
racing heritage and our commitment to delivering world-class thoroughbred competition,” said
Drew Cady, the track’s general manager. “Following last year’s incredible race and strong
wagering numbers, we’re eager to build on that momentum and welcome fans to experience
this historic occasion.”
Last year’s Prince of Wales Stakes generated plenty of excitement, with an 11-horse field
driving more than $700,000 in wagering which boosted the full day’s race card to $3.03 million in
total wagering; the second largest handle since the Fort Erie Live Racing Commission took over
operations in 2010.
Racing highlights will include supporting stakes including the $100,000 Ontario Sire Heritage
Series races — the Rondeau Bay Stakes and Lake Erie Stakes — alongside Fort Erie’s own
Molson Cup and Le Cinquieme Essai Cup.
Admission and parking remain free, ensuring accessibility for all ages. Those unable to attend
can watch the action on Rogers Sportsnet from the comfort of their homes, while placing wagers
online via HPI Bet.
The draw for the 90th Prince of Wales Stakes will take place on Thursday, Sept. 4, at noon,
offering an early glimpse of the contenders vying for this coveted title.
Fort Erie’s 128th racing season kicks off on Tuesday, May 27, with regular race days on
Mondays and Tuesdays, leading up to this marquee event.
For more information about the Prince of Wales Stakes, or to check out the track’s full slate of
race dates and events for 2025, visit www.forterieracing.com.
Photo:
Winning jockey Jose Campos and trainer Harold Ladouceur were all smiles after winning the Prince of Wales Stakes in 2024. The 90th running of the Prince of Wales Stakes is scheduled for Sept. 9, 2025.
