Woodbine Entertainment Group has targeted Aug. 30 for its first race to take place on the Toronto track’s new state-of-the-art Polytrack surface.

“We expect to complete the installation of the Polytrack on top of the macadam (final sub-layer) by early next week,” said Chris Evans, Woodbine’s vice president of Thoroughbred racing. “On the stretch turn, we had a problem with some stone, so we wanted to ensure it was in proper condition for when the paving starts.

“Paving will begin after the races tonight (Aug. 16), as well as on Thursday, along with Friday and Saturday nights. As the macadam is put down, the Polytrack will be brought over and placed on top. From there, our track crew will maintain it and prep it for racing. The target date is August 30 with training taking place at least three to four days prior.”

Construction began in early July with Thoroughbred racing action moved to the seven-furlong Standardbred racing oval. Standardbred racing’s summer meet is currently being held at Mohawk Raceway in Campbellville. It returns to Woodbine on Oct. 9