Fort Erie Race Track Opens to Biggest Crowd in Years

Fort Erie Race Track launched its 2026 season in style last Sunday, drawing its largest Opening Day crowd in recent memory and posting on-track wagering figures that signal a strong summer ahead for the Border Oval.

More than 6,000 people attended the season opener, pushing on-track wagering to $143,000 — a 28 per cent jump over the previous season’s Opening Day numbers.

The turnout, boosted by warm May weather, was complemented by a full slate of entertainment alongside the racing card, including a live concert, farmer’s market, and food trucks from across the Niagara region.

“Fort Erie Race Track is in the perfect position to play a key role in the province’s Destination Niagara strategy, and our huge Sunday opener highlights how important this business is to Fort Erie’s summer tourism industry,” said James Culic, the track’s marketing manager. “By combining exciting horse racing with a live concert, farmer’s market, and a tasty assortment of food trucks from across Niagara, we kicked off the town’s tourism season with a bang on Sunday and we’ll be keeping the entertainment going all summer long.”

On the track, ICON Racing was the story of the day, taking both the Sprint Into Summer Cup and the Summer Solstice Cup. Jockey Sofia Vives delivered a dominant performance, winning all four races in which she had mounts for ICON and trainer Tony Adamo — a clean sweep that left the connections visibly elated.

“I’ve got to thank ICON,” said Adamo after his fourth straight win of the afternoon. “They love this business, they love Fort Erie, and they want to keep supporting this track.”

The track continues its Sunday schedule for the next three meets, with the next major milestone being Father’s Day on June 21, when two additional stakes races will be on offer.

Following Father’s Day, Fort Erie returns to its regular Monday-Tuesday race schedule through to the end of October. Two special Sunday event days are also slated: the Wiener Dog Races on July 12 and Fort Foodie Fest, the track’s signature food truck festival, on August 30.

The season’s marquee event — the 91st Prince of Wales Stakes — is set for Labour Day weekend, with the feature race scheduled for Monday, September 7.

Full schedule and event details are available at forterieracing.com.