A Canadian entrepreneur and horse racing enthusiast who built a business empire and donated millions to charitable causes. Known for his philanthropic efforts and contributions to the thoroughbred horse racing industry.
Steve Stavro, born Manoli Stavroff Sholdas, was a Macedonian-Canadian businessman, grocery store magnate, Thoroughbred racehorse owner/breeder, sports team owner, and philanthropist. He is best known for transforming a single produce store in Toronto into Knob Hill Farms, one of Canada's largest grocery chains, and for his ownership of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors.
In 1954, Stavro founded Knob Hill Farms, a single produce store in the east end of Toronto. Under his leadership, the company grew exponentially, eventually becoming one of Canada's largest grocery chains with only 10 locations in and around Toronto. The Cambridge location, founded in 1991, held the distinction of being the largest grocery store in the world at the time of its opening.
Stavro was an avid sports fan and heavily involved in the Canadian sports scene. In 1961, he co-founded the Eastern Canada Professional Soccer League with George Gross. Later, in 1994, he purchased the controlling interest in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), making him the owner of the Toronto Maple Leafs. In 1998, MLSE acquired the Toronto Raptors, making Stavro the principal owner of two of Toronto's three major North American sports franchises.
Stavro played a crucial role in the construction of the Air Canada Centre (now known as Scotiabank Arena), the home of both the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Raptors. This state-of-the-art arena was a testament to his dedication to the sports community in Toronto.
In 1967, Stavro purchased two yearlings and founded Knob Hill Stables. Over the years, the stables grew to include over 80 horses, with notable standouts like Molson Million and Prince of Wales Stakes winner Benburb, Canadian International Stakes Winner Thornfield, and Prince of Wales Stakes winner and Queen's Plate runner-up, Alezzandro.
Stavro was a dedicated philanthropist, and his contributions to various charitable organizations left a lasting impact on the community. Following his passing in 2006, Senator Trevor Eyton paid tribute to Stavro's life, highlighting his tireless efforts and dedication to the betterment of Canadian society.
Steve Stavro's contributions to the business and sports worlds have left an indelible mark on Canadian society. His dedication to the community, charitable organizations, and sports franchises has inspired countless individuals and continues to shape the country's sports landscape.
Throughout his career, Stavro faced some controversies, including criticism for his business practices and sports team management. However, his philanthropic efforts and dedication to the community ultimately overshadowed these issues, cementing his legacy as a respected business leader and sports icon.
65 Years Old
The greatest hockey player of all time, holding numerous records, including most career goals and assists, and leading his team to four Stanley Cup championships. A legendary athlete and iconic figure in the sport.
98 Years Old
Legendary hockey player known for his incredible on-ice longevity, playing professionally until age 52, and scoring over 800 goals in his career.
60 Years Old
A legendary hockey player who won two Stanley Cups and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, known for his incredible on-ice skills and overcoming health issues to dominate the sport.
84 Years Old
A legendary Hall of Famer who dominated the NHL as a prolific goal-scorer and later became a successful coach and executive, known for his iconic mustache and charismatic personality.
77 Years Old
A Hall of Fame center who led the Philadelphia Flyers to two Stanley Cup championships and is considered one of the greatest players in NHL history, known for his exceptional on-ice vision and leadership.
75 Years Old
A legendary hockey player who held the record for most points in a single game (6 goals, 4 assists) for over 40 years, and is a Hockey Hall of Famer.
73 Years Old
A Hall of Fame right winger who played 16 seasons in the NHL, known for his iconic mustache and scoring over 500 goals.
