Track Facts

Major Tracks

Aqueduct Race Track Info - New York Racing Picks & Tips

Aqueduct opened on Sept. 27, 1894 in Queens, New York. A new clubhouse and track offices were built in 1941, but the track was torn down in 1956 and then re-opened in 1959. In 1975 the inner track was constructed to facilitate winter racing.

Grade I stakes races held at Aqueduct include the Carter Handicap, Cigar Mile Handicap and Wood Memorial Stakes which is run every April and is a major prep race with more than 10 winners having gone on to capture victory in the Kentucky Derby, 4 of whom captured the Triple Crown.

Best known as the Big A, Aqueduct has three courses:
  • The Main Track (dirt).
  • inside of this is the Inner Dirt Track (consisting of a special type of dirt over which races are run during the winter months).
  • and the innermost course is a turf (grass) course.

The track has seating capacity of 17,000 but total capacity of 90,000.

Aqueduct Race Meets:
  • Aqueduct Winter / Spring Meeting:Saturday, Jan. 1 to Sunday, May 1 (85 days)
  • Aqueduct Fall Meeting:Wednesday, Nov. 2 to Saturday, Dec. 31 (39 days).
Post Times:
  • 12:30 p.m. Eastern, daily
Aqueduct by the numbers:
  • Main Course:1 1/8 Miles
  • Inner Dirt Course:1 Mile
  • Turf Course:7/8 Mile
  • Attendance Capacity:40,000
  • Parking Capacity:8,000 Cars
  • Trackside Dining:1,200
  • Total Seating Capacity:17,000
Admission:
  • Grandstand Admission:$1 -- Free from Jan. 2 to March 7. Children under 12 are free
  • Clubhouse Admission:$2
  • Skyline Club:$1 additional
  • Gates Open:11:00 a.m.
Physical Address:
Aqueduct Race Track
110-00 Rockaway Blvd.
Jamaica NY 11417

Arlington Park Race Track Info - Illinois Racing Picks & Tips

Arlington Park officially opened in 1927 when more than 20,000 fans braved the cold weather to witness jockey Joe Bollero guided Luxembourg to victory in the very first race. In 1933, it installed the first all-electric totalisator, a system that reduced the time between races and added credibility to wagering information by displaying the amount bet on each horse in a race.

Arlington maintains international presence by exchanging races with leading tracks in England and Japan and participating in Jockey Club deliberations and global conferences on international racing. In 2005 the track was selected to organize the North and South American simulcast of the Dubai World Cup.

Arlington Park has two race courses:
  • Main Track:One and one-eighth miles, oval.
  • Turf Course:One mile, oval.
Arlington Park Race Meets:
  • Live racing from May to September - Wednesday to Monday
Post Times:
  • 1:00pm, 3:00pm on Fridays
Arlington by the numbers:
  • Main Track:One mile and one eight oval
  • Distance from last turn to finish:1,049 feet.
  • Turf Course:One Mile Oval.
  • Training Track:Five Furlongs
General Admission:
  • $4.75 for Twin Spires Club members - includes Daily Racing Guide
  • $6.00 - includes Daily Racing Guide
  • $2.00 for seniors (55+) every Wednesday
  • Children 16 and under are admitted free to Arlington Park when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
  • $300.00 - season admission pass.
Street Address:
2200 W. Euclid
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60006

Bay Meadows Race Track Info - California Racing Picks & Tips

Bay Meadows Race Course in San Mateo can lay claim to being one of the most tradition-laden and innovative racetracks in the country. It also is the longest continually operating racetrack in California.

Since its inception in 1934, Bay Meadows has been a venue through which the most famous horses, jockeys and trainers have strolled, and where many "firsts" in racing took place.

Thanks to William P. Kyne, pari-mutuel wagering, the popular Daily Double, the first all-enclosed starting gate, the totalizator board and photo-finish camera were introduced to racing at Bay Meadows.

Bay Meadows has two tracks:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:7 furlongs, 32 feet.
Bay Meadows Race Meets:
  • April to June
  • August to November
  • Bay Meadows Fair - week-long, 2nd week in August
Post Times:
  • 12:45 p.m. each day except Fridays
  • 7:15 p.m. Fridays
Bay Meadows by the numbers:
  • Main Track:One mile oval with 1-1/4-mile and 6-furlong chutes.
  • Longden Turf Course:Oval measures 7 furlongs, 32 feet (4,625 feet).
  • Total Facility Area:Approximately 90 acres.
  • Seating Capacity:9,500 (Grandstand 7,400; Club House 1,000; Turf Club 1,100).
  • Stall Capacity:Stalls for 900 Thoroughbreds in 5 barns.
  • Parking:5,000
Admission:
  • General Admission: $3
  • Turf Club admission - $10
  • Club House admission, $6.
Parking:
  • General Parking, $4.
  • Preferred Park & Lock, $7.
  • Valet parking, $7.
Street Address:
2600 South Delaware Street
San Mateo, California 94403

Belmont Park Race Track Info - New York Racing Picks & Tips

Belmont Park is home of the Belmont Stakes, the final jewel of the Triple Crown races. The park has the largest dirt racecourse of any thoroughbred track not only in North America but the world at a mile and a half (2414 m).

Discuss Belmont Park Picks & Tips in the horse racing handicapping forum.A 430-acre racetrack in Elmont, New York, Belmont Park has two race meetings scheduled annually. It is also the site of the 22nd running of the Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships on October 29, 2005.

Belmont Park has three racetracks:
  • Race Track Information Main Track:One and one-half Mile, oval.
  • Widener Turf:One and 5/16 Miles, 27 Feet.
  • Inner Turf:One and 3/16 Miles, 103 Feet.
Belmont Park Race Meets:
  • 2006 Belmont Park Spring/Summer Meeting:Wednesday, May 4 to Sunday, July 24 (60 days)
  • 2006 Belmont Park Fall Championship Meeting:Friday, Sept. 9 to Sunday, Oct. 30 (38 days)
Post Times:
  • 1 p.m. daily.
Belmont by the numbers:
  • Main Course:1 1/2 Miles
  • Last Turn to Finish on Main Track:1,097 feet
  • Widener Turf Course:1 5/16 Miles
  • Inner Turf Course:1 3/16 Miles
  • Attendance Capacity:85,000 - 90,000
  • Parking Capacity:18,500 Cars
  • Trackside Dining:2,300
  • Total Seating Capacity:32,941
Admission:
  • Grandstand Admission: $2, Children under 12 are free
  • Clubhouse Admission:$5
  • Gates Open:11:00 a.m.
Physical Address:
Belmont Park
2150 Hempstead Turnpike
Elmont NY 11003

Calder Race Course Race Track Info - Florida Racing Picks & Tips

On May 6, 1971 Calder Race Course opened for the first time featuring the track designed by 3M. Calder Racecourse has drawn more people than any other sports franchise in Florida and over 35,000,000 people have attended races at Calder since its opening.

In 2004, Calder added a poker card room offering Texas Hold 'Em, Seven Card Stud and Omaha High/Low.

Calder Bay has two tracks:
  • Race Track Information Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course: Seven Furlongs.
Racing Dates:
  • Calder Summer Meet:April - October
  • Winter Meet:October - January
Post Times:
  • 11 a.m.
Tampa Bay by the numbers:
  • Entire Grounds:220 acres.
  • Main Track:one mile with 1/4 and 7/8 chutes.
  • Turf Course:7/8 mile with 1/4 mile chute.
  • Seating Capacity:15,000
Admission:
  • Grandstand: $2
  • Clubhouse: $4
Street Address:
21001 NW 27th Avenue
Miami, Florida 33056

Churchill Downs Race Track Info - Kentucky Racing Picks & Tips

Home of the 2008 Kentucky Derby. Meriwether Lewis Clark, Jr., who built Churchill Downs, wanted his track to have a race that would rival England's Epsom Derby. He visited England to study both its tracks and its races then returned to Louisville to establish the Kentucky Derby, which was first run on May 17, 1875.

The twin spires atop the grandstands are the most recognizable architectural feature of Churchill Downs and are used as a symbol of the track and the Kentucky Derby. They were designed by architect Joseph Dominic Baldez and built in 1895.

The Downs, as it is called today, has become the world's most legendary race track and also operates an off-track betting and training facility called Trackside Louisville.

Churchill Downs has two courses:
  • Main Track (dirt):One and one-eighth miles, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven-eighths Mile, oval.
Chuchill Downs Race Meets:
  • Spring Meet - April to July 6
  • Fall Meet Month of November
Post Times:
  • 1:15 p.m.
The Downs by the numbers:
  • Main Course:One mile, oval
  • Turf Course:7/8th mile, oval
  • Seating Capacity:48,500
  • Parking Capacity:4,000
Admission:
  • Prices: (except Oaks and Derby Days)
  • $2.00 clubhouse/grandstand, senior citizens
  • $1.00; children 12 and under admitted free when accompanied by an adult
  • $2.00 reserved seat, $3.00 Derby Week; $4.50 Skye Terrace fee
  • Oaks Day:$25 general admission
  • Derby Day:$40 general admission
Street Address:
700 Central Avenue
Louisville, Ky. 40208-1200
(Approximately 4 miles from downtown, 3 miles from Louisville International Airport)

Del Mar Race Track Info - California Racing Picks & Tips

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, "where the turf meets the surf", is a product of Hollywood mixing with horse racing. It was built in 1937 by the legendary crooner, Bing Crosby, along with friends Jimmy Durante and Pat O'Brien. Hollywood soon took notice and stars like Ava Gardner, Dorothy Lamour, and Lucille Ball came to the then-fast-rising Del Mar fairgrounds for photo ops.

Horse racing greats no less than William Lee "Bill" Shoemaker, Johnny Longden, Laffit Pincay, Jr., and more followed suit to grace the turf. In 1938, legendary horse Seabiscuit helped immortalize the Del Mar Racetrack when it won in an epic race against Ligaroti.

Del Mar has two racetracks:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven eighth's Mile.
Del Mar Racing Dates:
  • Live racing from July to September
Post Times:
  • 2 p.m. daily
Admission:
  • Clubhouse Daily Admission (seat not included) $8*
  • Clubhouse Crossover from Stretch Run $3
  • Clubhouse Advance Sale Discount Books (10 daily admissions) $60*
  • Clubhouse Reserved Seats $5 ($10 Opening Day/PC day)
Parking:
  • General $5
  • Valet $15
  • Early Bird $5
  • Bus parking (charter or scheduled) no charge.
Street Address:
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd
Del Mar, California 92014

Ellis Park Race Track Info - Kentucky Racing Picks & Tips

The racetrack now known as Ellis Park was built in 1922 by the Green River Jockey Club.

Financial woes plagued the new racetrack in its early days, in 1925 the racetrack continued operations after James C. Ellis purchased the track Located in Henderson, Kentucky, Ellis park offers thoroughbred racing and whole card simulcasting and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Churchill Downs Incorporated (Nasdaq: CHDN).

Home of the Grade III Gardenia Stakes on "Big Four Stakes Saturday," Ellis Park conducts its live race meet from mid-July through Labor Day.

Ellis Park has two racetracks:
  • Main Track:One and one-eighth Miles, oval.
  • Inner Turf Course:One Mile, oval.
Ellis Park Racing Dates:
  • July 9 - September 1
  • Wednesday through Sunday
Post Times:
  • 12:40 p.m
Ellis Park by the numbers:
  • Main Course:1 1/8 miles, 7-furlong and 1-mile chutes.
  • Turf Course:Inside main track, 1 mile.
  • Stabling Accommodations:38 barns, 1,142 stalls
Admission:
  • $2 General Admission
  • $2 Clubhouse
  • $3 Sky Theatre
  • $3 Sky Theatre
Physical Address:
Ellis Park Race Course, Inc.
P.O. Box 33
Henderson, Kentucky 42419-0033

Fair Grounds Race Track Info Racing Picks & Tips

Fair Grounds Race Course, often known as New Orleans Fair Grounds, is a thoroughbred racetrack and racino located in New Orleans, Louisiana. The track was initially opened as the "Union Race Course" in 1852.

In 1872, the Metairie Association abandoned racing at the legendary Metairie Race Course and transferred racing to Fair Grounds, where they formed the Louisiana Jockey Club.

Fair Grounds has endured the adversities of changing ownerships, wars, floods, fires, epidemics, hurricanes, economic hardships, racing prohibitions, politics and all forms of gaming competition. Fair Grounds is the oldest site of racing in America still in operation.

Fair Grounds has 2 race courses:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:About seven furlongs.
Fair Grounds Race Meets:
  • January - March
  • November - December (last week)
  • Thursday through Monday
Post Times:
  • 12:30 p.m
Fair Grounds by the numbers:
  • Main Track:One-mile oval, sandy loam soil, Fontana safety rail
  • Turf Course:Approximately seven furlongs, inside main track
  • Total Facility Area:145 acres
  • Total Infield Area:26 acres
  • Stall Capacity:1,950
Admission:
  • $1.00 - Grandstand, OTB Building 1st Floor
  • $4.00 - Clubhouse, OTB Building 2nd Floor
Parking:
  • General parking free
  • valet parking $4.00
Street Address:
1751 Gentilly Blvd
New Orleans, LA 70119
Telephone:(504) 944-5515
Fax:(504) 949-2200; (504) 949-1211

Golden Gate Fields, California horse racing, thoroughbreds, harness racing, horse racing in USA

Golden Gate Fields commenced its inaugural meet on February 1, 1941. The 1950 Golden Gate Handicap concluded the most remarkable rivalry in racing history between Noor and Citation, a race that prompted Citation's rider, Steve Brooks, to proclaim, "We just can't beat that horse!"

Located just west of Berkeley, Golden Gate features live racing from November to March and June through August each year, and simulcast all year. The track is home to several major races, including the San Francisco Breeders Cup Mile and the Golden Gate Handicap.

Golden Gate Fields has two main tracks:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven Furlongs.
Golden Gates Racing Dates:
  • January to March; November to December
  • Wednesday through Sunday
Post Times:
  • 12:45 p.m
Golden Gate by the Numbers:
  • Main Track:Dirt course, one- mile oval(sandy loam);
  • Turf Course: Nine-tenths mile oval, 65 feet wide throughout.
  • Seating Capacity:14,750
  • Grandstand Capacity:7,960
  • Club House capacity:5,230
  • Turf Club capacity:1,560.
  • Stable Area Capacity:Stalls for 1420 Thoroughbreds.
  • Total Plant Area:225 acres.
  • Parking Capacity: 5,000
Admission:
  • General Admission - $3
  • Club House - $6.
  • Turf Club - $10; Weekends $15.
  • General Parking - $4.
Mailing Address:
Golden Gate Fields,
P.O. Box 6027
Albany, California 94706
Street Address:
1100 Eastshore Highway
Albany, California 94710

Gulfstream Park Race Track Info - Florida Racing Picks & Tips & Casino

The Florida Derby stakes debuted at Gulfstream Park in 1952, in time with the race track's expansion. The next year the derby purse was raised to $100,000 making it the first stakes event so richly endowed in the Sunshine State. The Florida Derby is a premier prep race for the Kentucky Derby.

Gulfstream has been the site of some of racing's most memorable feats. One hundred sixty national thoroughbred champions have competed at the track. It was in 1957, in a historic race where Gen. Duke equaled the world record 1:46 4/5 and defeating Bold Ruler, that the Florida Derby was established as a major stepping stone to the Kentucky Derby and the Triple Crown trail.

Gulfstream Park has two race courses:
  • Race Track Information Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:About seven furlongs.
Gulfstream Park Race Meets:
  • Live racing from January to April - Wednesday to Monday
Post Times:
  • 1:00 p.m
Gulfstream by the numbers:
  • Main Track:1 mile oval
  • Turf Course:7 furlongs
Admission:
  • Grandstand:$3.00
  • Clubhouse:$5.00
  • Turf Club:$10.00
Mailing Address:
Gulfstream Park Racing Association, Inc.
901 South Federal Highway
Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009
Street Address:
901 South Federal Highway
Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009

Hawthorne Race Track Info - Illinois Racing Picks & Tips.

In 1890 Edward Corrigan purchases 119 acres of land in Cicero Township and construction begins on the Hawthorne grandstand. The following year, Hawthorne Race Course opens with a five-race card featuring the Chicago Derby, a 1/4-mile race won by Brookwood, owned by Edward Corrigan. The Chicago Tribune estimated the crowd at 6,000.

The grandstand burned to the ground on May 30, 1902. Corrigan immediately transfered the balance of the Spring meet to nearby Harlem Racetrack and on July 21 the first of two summer meets opens. On August 18 racing returned to Hawthorne for the start of a 12-day late summer session.

Hawthorne also hosts harness racing meets during summer.

Hawthorne two race courses:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven Furlongs.
Hawthorne Race Dates:
  • January 1, the months of March to May , and again from September to December
  • Wednesday - Sunday
Post Times:
  • 1:00 p.m
Hawthorne by the numbers:
  • Main Track:One Mile
  • Turf Course:7 furlongs 148 feet
  • Length of Stretch:1,320 feet
  • Width of Stretch:75 feet
  • Seating Capacity:35,000
Admission
  • General Admission Grandstand: $2.00
  • Clubhouse: $4.00
  • Clubhouse Season Boxes $700 per season
Mailing Address:
Hawthorne Race Course, Inc.
3501 South Laramie Avenue
Stickney/Cicero, Illinois 60804
Street Address:
3501 South Laramie Avenue
Stickney/Cicero, Illinois 60804

Hollywood Park Race Track Info - California Racing Picks & Tips

Another show biz baby, the Hollywood Turf Club was formed under the chairmanship of Jack L. Warner (of the Warner Brothers studio).

With 600 original shareholders including film stars, directors and producers that included Al Jolson and Raoul Walsh (two of the original directors of the board), Joan Blondell, Ronald Colman, Walt Disney, Bing Crosby, Sam Goldwyn, Darryl Zanuck, George Jessel, Ralph Bellamy, Hal Wallis, Anatole Litvak, Hunt Stromberg, Wallace Beery, Irene Dunne and the late Mervyn LeRoy.

Hollywood Park has two racetracks:
  • Main Track:One and one eight mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:One Mile, 145 Feet.
Hollywood Park Racing Dates :
  • Spring/Summer Meeting - April to July
  • Autumn Meeting - November to December
  • Wednesday through Monday
Post Times:
  • 1:20 p.m. Daily
Hollywood Park by the numbers:
  • Main Course:One and one eighth miles with 7 1/2 furlongs
  • Turf Course:One mile, 165-foot oval, with diagonal chute
  • Total Park Area:240 acres. Infield: 36.3 acres.
Admission:
  • All prices include parking & Programs. -- Programs purchased separately $2.
  • Optional valet parking is available for $8.
  • Preferred parking is available for $3.
  • General admission:$7.00
  • Clubhouse:$10.00
  • Finish Line Lounge (Casino):$10.00
  • Turf Club:$20.00 -- $15 during simulcasting
  • Seniors (62 and over):$4 General admission (Wed. and Thurs. only)
  • Bus/Pedestrian:$5.50 Children 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult Daily box seat sales
  • Upper Club:daily box seat tickets available for purchase on the 3rd floor Clubhouse level across from the Jack Daniels Bar: $2.00 per seat. entire box purchase required
  • Personal Press Box:$3.00 - In additional to Clubhouse admission
Mailing Address:
Hollywood Park, Inc.
P.O. Box 369
Inglewood, California 90301-0369
Street Address:
1050 South Prairie Ave.
Inglewood, California 90301-4197

Keeneland Race Track Info - Kentucky Racing Picks & Tips

Keeneland Race Track is in the town of Lexington, the world capital of racehorse breeding, where the Bluegrass Stakes are held every year approximately three weeks before the Kentucky Derby. Opened in 1935, Keeneland also provides superior year-round training facilities and conducts yearly race meetings during the months of April and October.

Keeneland has two racetracks:
  • Main Track:One and one-sixteenth miles, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven and one-half furlongs, oval.
Keeneland Racing Dates:
  • April / October
Post Times:
  • 1:15pm
Keeneland by the numbers:
  • Main Course:1 1/16Mile
  • Turf Course:7 furlong
  • Total Park Area:907 acres.
Admission:
  • General admission is $3.00; call 800-456-3412 for dining reservation information
Mailing Address:
Keeneland Association, Incorporated
P.O. Box 1690
Lexington, Kentucky 40592-1690
Street Address:
4201 Versailles Road
Lexington, Kentucky 40510

Laurel Park Race Track Info - Maryland Racing Picks & Tips

Laurel Horse Racing Park covers 360 acres and is located between Baltimore and Washington D.C. It first opened on October 2, 1911 under the direction of the Laurel Four County Fair.

In 1914, New York grocery entrepreneur, James Butler bought the track outting Col. Matt Winn in charge. Winn is the man who put the Kentucky derby on the racing map.

The park opens for summer between July and August, and again for fall in October and runs through to the end of December.

Laurel Park has two tracks:
  • Main Track:One and one-eighth Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:One Mile.
Racing Dates:
  • January 1 - March 30
  • July 24 - August 22
  • October 7 - December 31
  • Wednesday through Sunday
Post Times:
  • 12:35 p.m
Laurel by the numbers:
  • Main Track:Dirt - 1-1/8 m oval
  • Turf Course:1m inside main track
  • Seating Capacity:Grandstand Box Seats 634
  • Grandstand Reserve Seats 2330
  • Grandstand Total Seats 2964
  • Clubhouse Box Seats 224
  • Clubhouse Reserve Seats 856
  • Clubhouse Total Seats 1216
Parking Capacity:
  • General Spaces 2,850
  • Preferred Spaces 300
  • Valet Spaces 180
Admission:
  • Grandstand & Clubhouse: $3.00
  • Night & Simulcasting: Free
Mailing Address:
Laurel Racing Association, Inc.
P.O. Box 130
Laurel, Maryland 20725
Street Address:
Racetrack Road & Route 198
Laurel, Maryland 20725

Lone Star

Louisiana Downs Race Track Info Racing Picks & Tips Louisiana Downs is owned by Harrah's, a casino and entertainment company since 2002. The agreement gave Harrah's a 95% stake in a company that now owns both Louisiana Downs and Harrah's Shreveport Hotel & Casino. The remaining 5 percent of this holding company is owned by a group of Shreveport/Bossier City-area investors.

The racetrack today has a new casino facility and a number of new restaurants. Harrah's planned for Louisiana Downs to become the only land-based gaming facility with slots in northern Louisiana.

Louisiana Downs has 2 race courses:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven-eighths mile and 50 feet, oval.
Louisiana Downs Race Meets:
  • June - November
  • Thursday through Sunday
Post Times:
  • 2:05 p.m. June through October
  • 1:05 p.m. October through November
Exotic Wagering Format:
  • $2. Daily Double on 1st and 9th races.
  • $2. Exacta and Quinella on all races.
  • $2. Pick 4 on races 3 through 6 and 7 through 10.
  • $1. Trifecta on all races with six or more entries.
  • $2. Pick 3 on 2nd through 4th; 3rd through 5th; 4th through 6th; 5th through 7th; 8th through 10th races.
  • $2. Superfecta on all races with eight or more entries.
  • $1. Minimum wagers.
Takeout Information:
  • Win, place, and show: 17%
  • Daily Double, Quinella, and Exacta wagering: 20.5%
  • Daily Double, Quinella, and Exacta wagering: 20.5%
  • Superfecta and Pick 6 wagering: 25%
Parking:
  • Free Valet Parking for Diamond and Platinum cardholders - $5 for others.
Mailing Address:
Harrah's Louisiana Downs
8000 East Texas Street
Bossier City, LA 71111
Street Address:
Harrah's Louisiana Downs
8000 East Texas Street
Bossier City, LA 71111
Telephone:

Main (318) 742-5555
Racing Office (800) 551-2361
Fax: (318) 741-2615
Racing Office (318) 741-2591

Meadowlands Race Tracks Info Racing Picks & Tips

The Meadowlands Racetrack is a horse racing track at the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford, New Jersey, United States. The track hosts both thoroughbred racing and harness racing. It is known popularly in the region as "The Big M."

On September 6, 1977, Meadowlands opened its doors for its first ever Thoroughbred meet to 25,158 who bet $2,480,393. The John Mazza-trained Play the Palace won the first race and Rushing Man became the first stakes winner at the East Rutherford track when he won the Paterson Handicap the same night. Sam Maple ran away with the jockeys title with 82 wins. Denise O'Hara became the first female jockey to win a race at the Meadowlands Racetrack with Jersey Giant. The track is operated by the New Jersey Sports and Exhibition Authority, also the operator of Monmouth Park.

Meadowlands has 2 race courses:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven furlongs, oval.
Post Times:
  • 7:30 p.m
Exotic Wagering Format:
  • $2. Daily Double on 1st, 2nd and last two races.
  • $2. Exacta on all races.
  • $2. Trifecta on all races (also on simulcast stakes).
  • $2. 'Rolling' Pick 3 starting on first race.
  • $1. Superfecta on 4th and last race.
  • $1. Pick 4 on races 6-9.
Takeout Information:
  • Win, place, and show: 17%
  • Daily Double and Exacta wagering: 19%
  • Pick 3 and Trifecta wagering: 25%
  • Superfecta and Pick 4 wagering: 15%
Admission:
  • Grandstand and Paddock $1
  • Grandstand reserved seats $1.50
  • Raceworld Teletheater $3 per session additional
  • $5 Day/Night additional
  • Clubhouse admission $3
  • Club Teletheater $2 additional
  • Pegasus admission $5
  • General parking FREE
  • Clubhouse and Pegasus Valet parking $5
Parking and Seating:
  • General parking FREE
  • Valet and Pegasus parking $4
  • Parking spaces 20,000
  • Number of Grandstand Level seats 3,339
  • Clubhouse seats 1,248
  • Estimated total capacity 40,000
Mailing Address:
New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority
Meadowlands Race Track
50 Route 120
East Rutherford, New Jersey 07073
Street Address:
50 Route 120
East Rutherford, New Jersey 07073

Monmouth Park Race Track Info Racing Picks & Tips

Monmouth Park hosts the $1,000,000 Haskell Invitational Handicap, the richest invitational thoroughbred horse race in North America run in early August between the Triple Crown series and the Breeders' Cup.

Amory L. Haskell was born in New York City in 1893. Following his graduation from Princeton University in 1916, he began a business career with the New Jersey Zinc Company. He served the Navy during WWI then joined General Motors upon his return. He left General Motors to form Triplex Safety Glass Company and was president and chairman of the board when he sold it.

In 1968, the Monmouth Park Directors honored his memory with the Amory L. Haskell Handicap, a race for older horses.

In 1981, the Haskell name was transferred to a mile and an eighth invitational for the nation's top three-year-olds.

Monmouth Park has 2 race courses:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven furlongs.

Monmouth Race Meets:

  • May - Sept.
  • Wednesday through Sunday
Post Times:
  • 12:55 p.m.
Exotic Wagering Format:
  • $2 Daily Double on 1st, 2nd and last two races.
  • $2 Exacta on all races.
  • $2 Trifectas on all races with 7 or more betting interests.
  • $2 Pick 3 beginning on races 1, 2, 3, 6 ,7, 8.
  • $2 Superfecta on race 4 and on last race.
  • $2. Pick 4 on races 5 through 8.
Takeout Information:
  • Win, place, and show: 17%
  • Daily Double and Exacta: 19%
  • Trifecta, Pick 3 and Superfecta: 25%
  • Pick 4: 15%
Admission:
  • Grandstand: $2.00
  • Clubhouse: $4.00
  • Senior Citizens(55+) 1/2 price.
  • Children 12 and under FREE.
Parking and Seating:
  • Picnic Area Parking: FREE
  • Grandstand General Parking: FREE
  • Preferred Grandstand Parking: $2.00
  • Preferred Clubhouse Parking: $2.00 & $3.00
  • Valet Parking: $5.00
  • Handicaped Parking Valet Service: $3.00
  • Additional Handicapped Parking available near both the Clubhouse and Grandstand.
Mailing Address:
Monmouth Park
175 Oceanport Avenue
Oceanport, New Jersey 0775
Street Address:
175 Oceanport Avenue
Oceanport, New Jersey 07757

Oaklawn Park Race Track Info Racing Picks & Tips

Oaklawn Park was incorporated in 1904 and one of the select few that features the finest in live thoroughbred horse racing in America. Oaklawn's innovative Racing Festival of the South is during April month.

Aside from the $1 million Arkansas Derby Stakes, an important prep race for the Kentucky Derby run every April, nine addition races to be run including the Apple Blossom Handicap, Oaklawn Handicap, the Count Fleet Sprint Handicap, and the Fantasy Stakes. Each race features a purse of at least $100,000.

Oaklawn is located in Hot Springs, AR. It's about an hour drive from Little Rock. Oaklawn Park is located at 2705 Central Ave, Highway 7, just south of Historic downtown Hot Springs.

Oaklawn Park has one race course:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
Oaklawn Race Meets:
  • January - April
  • Wednesday through Sunday
Post Times:
  • Weekdays & Sundays -1:30 p.m.
  • Saturdays - 1:00 p.m.
Oaklawn by the numbers:
  • Main Track:One mile, oval
Exotic Wagering Format:
  • $1 Exacta on all races.
  • $2 Daily Double on 1st, 2nd and last two races.
  • $1 Trifecta on all races.
  • $2 Pick 6 on races 3 through 8.
  • $1 Rolling Pick 3's beginning on 4th race.
Mailing Address:
Oaklawn Jockey Club
P.O. Box 699
Hot Springs, Arkansas 71902
Street Address:
2705 Central Avenue
Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901

Santa Anita Park Race Track Info - California Racing Picks & Tips

Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California opened in 1934 and is the oldest and most prestigious horse racetrack in Southern California.

Founded by the Los Angeles Turf Club, the track's success was built on the Santa Anita Handicap whose $100,000 purse, the largest of any race ever up until that time, made it the richest race in America and produced its nickname the Big 'Cap.

The Santa Anita Derby, a Grade 1 thoroughbred horse race for three-year-olds, carries a purse of $750,000 and is also held at Santa Anita Park run every April. Inaugurated in 1935, it is considered the most important West Coast stepping-stone to the Kentucky Derby. Since its inception, six Santa Anita Derby winners have gone on to win the Kentucky Derby.

Santa Anita Park is also the host for the 2008 Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships Santa Anita hugged the headlines in 1940 when Seabiscuit, one of the most popular horses of all time, wins the 1940 Santa Anita Handicap. The victory is Seabiscuit's last race and is one of the biggest sports stories of the year.

Santa Anita Park has two courses:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:About Seven Furlongs.
Santa Anita Race Meets:
  • Live racing during December to April
Post Times:
  • Weekdays:Wednesdays through Fridays: 1:00 p.m.
  • Weekends:Saturdays, Sundays and Holiday Mondays: 12:30 p.m.
Santa Anita by the numbers:
  • Main Course:One mile, oval
  • Turf Course:7 furlongs
Parking
  • Capacity:19,650
Admission:
  • General Admission - $5.00
  • Clubhouse - $8.50
  • Box Seats: $7.50
  • Club House Loge Seats: $5.00
  • Turf Club Admission: $15.00
  • Children 17 and under FREE.
Mailing Address:
Los Angeles Turf Club, Inc.
P.O. Box 60014
Arcadia, California 91066-6014
Street Address:
285 W. Huntington Dr.
Arcadia, California 91007

Pimlico Race Course Race Track Info - Maryland Racing Picks & Tips

Home of the prestigious $1 million Preakness Stakes, the race that determines whether the Kentucky Derby winner will have a chance to grab the Triple Crown. Preakness Stakes has a rich history, it was first run two years before the Kentucky Derby, in 1873, and was named after the horse who won the 1870 Dinner Party Stakes, Preakness. During that time Pimlico was one of the most respected tracks in America, far more important than Churchill Downs and 12,000 horse racing fans attended the first running.

Pimlico has two race courses:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven Furlongs
Pimlico Race Meets:
  • Spring Meeting:April to June
  • Fall Meeting:September to October
Post Times:
  • 1:05 p.m. Daily
Pimlico by the numbers:
  • Main Track:1 mile loam oval
  • Turf Course:7/8 of a mile inside main track
Seating Capacity:
  • New Grandstand 5,692
  • Old Grandstand 5,926
  • Clubhouse 1,269
  • Sports Palace 160
  • Terrace Box Seats (portable for Preakness) 3,936
  • Total Daily Seating Capacity 13,047
  • Standing Room (estimated) 22,000
  • Infield Capacity (estimated) 60,000
Parking Capacity:
  • General Spaces 2,100
  • Clubhouse Preferred Spaces 1,500
  • Valet Spaces 300
  • Hayward Preferred Spaces 320
  • Press Parking Spaces (Rogers 1 at Winner and Rogers Avenue during special events only) 162
Admission:
  • Grandstand & Clubhouse: $3.00
Mailing Address:
Maryland Jockey Club
Pimlico Race Course
Baltimore, Maryland 21215
Street Address:
Hayward and Winner Avenues
Baltimore, Maryland 21215

Saratoga Race Track Info - New York Racing Picks & Tips

Saratoga Race Course is a 350-acre racetrack in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Site of the the Travers Stakes, America's oldest major thoroughbred horse race. The Saratoga annual meet consists of a six-week meeting with Labor Day as the last day of racing.

Saratoga has three racetracks:
  • Main Track:One and one eighth's Mile, oval.
  • Mellon Turf:One Mile, 98 feet.
  • Turf Course:Seven Furlongs, 304 feet.
Saratoga Race Meets:
  • 2005 Saratoga Racing Season:
  • July 27- September 5, Wednesday through Monday
Post Times:
  • 1 p.m. Eastern
Saratoga by the numbers:
  • Main Course:1 1/8 Mile
  • Turf Course:1 Mile
  • Steeplechase/Inner Turf Course:7/8 Mile
  • Attendance Capacity:50,000
  • Trackside Dining:2,200
  • Total Seating Capacity:18,000, including picnic tables and benches.
Admission:
  • Grandstand Admission: $3
  • Clubhouse Admission: $5
Addresses:
Saratoga Race Course
267 Union Avenue
Saratoga Springs NY 12866
NYRA
PO Box 90
Jamaica NY 11417

Sportsman's Park Race Track Info - Illinois Racing Picks & Tips

Sportsman's Park is home to the famed Illinois Derby, Chicago's much anticipated stakes race that is also part of the preparatory races for the 2008 Kentucky Derby.

The 2002 Illinois Derby won by War Emblem was the last one run at Sportsman's Park Racetrack. Currently, the Illinois Derby at 1 1/8 miles with a purse of $500,000 is being held at Hawthorne Race Course every April.

Sportsman's Park offers live racing and is open for simulcasting year-round. The track is committed to providing the highest class of entertainment by presenting popular racing a popular prices. Sportsman's Park also doubles as an auto racing oval.

Sportsman's Park has one main track:
  • Race Track InformationMain Track:7 furlongs
Post Times:
  • 1:10pm
Mailing Address:
Sportsman's Park
3301 S. Laramie Avenue
Cicero, IL 60804
Street Address:
3301 S. Laramie Avenue
Cicero, IL 60804

Turfway Park Race Track Info - Kentucky Racing Picks & Tips

Catch exciting thoroughbred racing at Turfway Park all year long. With three major racing season: Winter/Spring Meet from January to April, Fall Meet from September-October, and the Holiday Meet for November-December.

Turfway Park has one main track:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
Turfway Park Racing Dates:
  • January - April
  • September - October
  • November - December
  • Wednesday through Sunday
Post Times:
  • 7:00 p.m. Wed-Fri
  • 1:10 p.m. Sat & Sun
Admission:
  • General Admission - Free
  • General parking - Free
Mailing Address:
Turfway Park LLC
P.O. Box 8
Florence, Kentucky 41022
Street Address:
7500 Turfway Road
Florence, Kentucky 41042
Minor Tracks

Beulah Park

Founded in 1923, Beulah Park holds the distinction of being Ohio's "first original" racetrack. During the early years, the track enjoyed a reputation as the "Little Saratoga" of the Midwest.

In recent years, the reputation of the historic Grove City facility has been enhanced by a multimillion dollar master plan of redevelopment and restoration. Since the purchase of the track by Columbus developer Charles Ruma in 1986, more than 12 million has been spent on improvements to the grandstand, clubhouse, and backside barn areas.

In addition to a new banked and spiraled track surface, Beulah Park built a new modern outdoor paddock area and plaza, along with an outdoor walking ring that has become the showpiece of the restoration project.

Admission Prices
  • Adult General Admission: $2.00
  • Senior Citizens: $1.00
  • Ages 12-17: $1.00
  • Under 12: Free
Parking
  • General Lot Parking: $1.00
  • Preferred Parking: Add $1.00

Plenty of Handicap Parking available.

Blending the old with new technology allows Beulah Park to present live via satellite Harness and Thoroughbred racing from America's greatest racetracks such as Gulfstream Park, Santa Anita, Belmont Park and Meadowlands.

The track's continuing commitment to the improvement of the racing industry has allowed Beulah Park to retain the reputation as "Ohio's original" home of Thoroughbred racing.

Physical Address:
3811 Southwest Blvd, Grove City, Ohio 43123
Click here for directions to Beulah Park
Mailing Addresses:
Beulah Park
Heartland Jockey Club Ltd.
P.O. Box 850
Grove City, OH 43123-0850
Phone Numbers:

Main: (614) 871-9600
Fax - General Office: (614) 871-0433
Fax - Racing Office: (614) 871-1938

Canterbury Park

Canterbury Park is a horse racing track located in Shakopee, Minnesota, USA. It runs a meet that consists of 69 racing days from early May to Labor Day, generally holding scheduled races Thursday through Sunday, with racing added on several holidays throughout the meet. The track itself features a one mile oval dirt track and a seven furlong turf course. Outside seating is available along with several indoor seating options. The track runs multiple food stands and bars throughout the building and simulcast betting is also offered.

Canterbury Park has hosted the Claiming Crown of horse racing for eight of its ten years.The park also includes a card club. The poker room has 34 tables and spreads games of primarily Texas Hold'em. The facility is open 24 hours per day, with simulcast racing year round and the card club. Canterbury has been the host of the Claiming Crown all but two years since its inception in 1999. A movement to add slot machines and video poker to the mix has been active for several years but has been met with some opposition. The so called "Racino" concept is still on the drawing board and little action was seen on the issue during the 2006 legislative session.

History

Canterbury Downs was founded by Walter Brooks Fields Jr. along with co-investors. According to David Miller of the Daily Racing Form,"Fields, along with his nephew Brooks Hauser, formed Minnesota Racetrack Inc. after a constitutional mendment allowing parimutuel wagering on horse racing was approved by Minnesota voters in 1982.

Naming Santa Anita as its primary partner, Minnesota Racetrack Inc. was awarded the state's first racetrack license by the Minnesota Racing Commission and the facility in Shakopee held its first race on June 26, 1985.

The introduction of the state's lottery and the widespread growth of casino gaming at Native American-hosted facilities in the area saw Canterbury Downs business repeatedly fall below revenue projections, and the track was sold in 1990 to Ladbroke Racing PLC."

In 1990, Canterbury was bought by Ladbroke Racing Corporation and was renamed New Canterbury Downs. In December 1992, it closed its doors for unspecified reasons. In late 1993, Canterbury was bought by Irwin Jacobs, who quickly sold it to Curtis and Randy Sampson. Shortly after the sale, the Sampsons worked to revitalize Canterbury, so that it reopened its doors to simulcasting, and it quickly removed itself from debt. In late 1994, Canterbury carried through on a promise to return live horse racing to Minnesota. In January 1995, Canterbury Downs officially changed its name to Canterbury Park.

Canterbury Park Holding Corporation

Type
Public (AMEX: ECP)
Founded 1985 in Shakopee, Minnesota, USA
Headquarters Shakopee, Minnesota, USA
Industry
Horse Racing

Website:

www.canterburypark.com

Charles Town

Charles Town Races & Slots is an incredibly varied, friendly, total entertainment experience, practically in your own backyard!

It starts with over 5,000 slots. That's more machines than you'll find in many Las Vegas casinos. Besides having the hottest new games, an increasing number of our slots are high-tech, easy to use, Smart Play/ Smart Pay coinless machines as well, so you can lose the buckets.

Live thoroughbred racing year round. A chance to bet on Simulcast races from the best tracks across the country.

The opportunity to enter to win cars, cruises, cash, even a brand new house, in our spectacular promotions.

When you're not gaming, there's a delicious variety of dining options. Live entertainment. Shopping. You name it.

Already, one of the area's fasting-growing destinations, we continue to expand in order to offer an even better experience.

The centerpiece of our current expansion is a magnificent indoor "Park" complete with flowers, greenery and slots.

We're also breaking ground this year on a new hotel. All just 10 minutes from Harpers Ferry. Sorry, Las Vegas.

Nothing close, even comes close!

You MUST be 18 years or older to gamble in West Virginia.

Colonial Downs

Track History and Fun Facts:

Colonial Downs commenced its inaugural season on September 1, 1997. It is the first Virginia track to conduct extended race meets since the Jamestown Jockey Club, which operated in Norfolk from 1908-'14

Colonial Downs is situated adjacent to Interstate 64, halfway between Richmond and Williamsburg. Main racing surface measures 1 1/4 miles in circumference; turf course has a maximum circumference of 1 1/8 miles, is 180 feet wide, and can accommodate ten different rail positions. Victory Gallop, the 1998 Belmont Stakes winner, won a pair of stakes at age two at Colonial. Da Hoss prepped for his '98 Breeders' Cup Mile victory with a win in Colonial allowance company. In essense, the Maryland racing circuit relocates at Colonial from early September through early October. clubhouse buffet cost $15.95 per person, and is excellent. Facility housing clubhouse/grandstand is in style of 19th century architecture.

Admision:
  • Grandstand Admission: $2
  • Clubhouse Admission: $5
Major Races:
  • $500,000 Virginia Derby
  • $200,000 Virginia Oaks
  • $200,000 All Along B. Cup Stakes
  • $50,000 David "Zeke"
  • Ferguson Memorial Stakes - NSA
Address:
10515 Colonial Downs Parkway
New Kent, Virginia 23124
(804) 966-RACE
http://www.colonialdowns.com
Nearest City:
  • Richmond
Nearest Airport:
  • Richmond International

Delta Downs Race Track

Delta Downs race track is Louisiana's premier race track and it offers the adrenaline-pumping thrill of live thoroughbred and quarter horse racing action. It also offers the unique excitement of slot jackpots in its casino facility. The casino features 1,500 slots and is open 24 hours daily.

Located at 2717 Highway 3063 in Vinton, Louisiana, it boasts of an expansive 220-acre countryside site.

The following are the notable race track information:
  • The main track is 6 furlongs or ¾mile oval, with two chutes
  • The track surface is a mixture of sand (from the Sabine river) and clay with limestone
  • The length of stretch is 660 yards
  • The width of stretch is 80 feet
  • The width of backstretch and turns is 70 feet
  • The track is banked with a 5% rise down straight-a-way and 10% incline on turns
  • The field size maximum is 10
  • The take-out rates are as follows: WPS: 18%, Exotic: 20.5% and 25%
The following are the wager types available:
  • Daily Double
  • Exacta
  • Pick 3
  • Quinella
  • Superfecta
  • Trifecta

Among the leading jockeys at Delta Downs race track are Guy Smith, Steven J. Bourque, Carl J. Woodley, Jerri E. Nichols and James T. Weatherly. Its roster of leading trainers include Doris Hebert, Keith L. Bourgeois, Donald Cormier, Jr. and W.B. Thomas.

Address:
Delta Downs Race Track
Vinton, Louisiana

Emerald Downs

Emerald Downs is a world class racetrack with a multitude of facility amenities and features. Choose from several dining options, group event packages and viewing perspectives to find the perfect setting to experience your day at the races.

2008 Live Racing Season
  • April 18 - September 28
First Race
  • Thursdays and Fridays - 6 p.m.
  • Weekends/Holidays - 2 p.m.
  • Kentucky Derby Day, Saturday May 3rd 1 p.m.
  • Fireworks Spectacular Thursday, July 3rd 5 p.m.

Gates open one 1/2 hour prior to first simulcast race.

Full Card Simulcasting

Emerald Downs offers full card simulcasting from tracks around the nation year round.

General Admission and Parking

$5 and includes access to the first five levels of the Grandstand, Paddock and Park. Children 17 & under are admitted FREE.

Parking
  • General - Free
  • Preferred - $5
  • Valet - $10
Seating

For seating or dining reservations: Call 253-288-7711 or toll-free, 1-888-931-8400

Clubhouse, 5th Floor
  • Rainier Restaurant/Terrace - Reservations available up to two weeks in advance.
  • Indoor Box Seating - Sold by the season or by the day
  • Indoor Reserved Clubhouse Seating - $3.00
  • The Turf Club - The exclusive Turf Club offers Thoroughbred racing at its finest. Members enjoy a private dining room, their own mutuel tellers and invitations to special events. Inquire about joining the Turf Club at Customer Service.
Grandstand Level, 3rd Floor
  • Outdoor Box Seating - Sold by the season or by the day
  • Outdoor Reserved Grandstand Seating - $2.50
Track Level, 2nd Floor

All seating on Track Level offers excellent views of the track at no additional cost. Seating is available on a first come, first serve basis.

Address:
Emerald Downs
2300 Emerald Downs Dr. Auburn, WA 98001

Evangeline Downs Race Track

Evangeline Downs race track is a 133.7 acre horse racing property in Carencro, Louisiana with a seven-eighths mile oval horse track. The track features thoroughbred and quarter horse racing in a season that typically spans from April to October.

In 2005, the racing facilities will transfer to a site in nearby Opelousas, joining the casino that has been operating since late 2003.

Evangeline Downs race track is one of Louisiana's pioneer horse racing tracks. It has been the site of many prestigious stakes and racing events in the past. Among these are the D.S. "Shine" Young Futurity, the John Franks Memorial Sales, the Lafayette Stakes and the Evangeline Mile.

History of Evangeline Downs Race Track

An estimated 10,000 people turned out for the opening night of Evangeline Downs race track on April 28, 1966. Blue Vee, ridden by Donald Comeaux, won the first race — a five-furlong claiming race for 4-year-olds and up. Louisiana Governor John McKeithen cut the ribbon to officially open the $2 million facility.

By Labor Day of that year and the end of the first racing season, 277,556 fans had visited Evangeline Downs race track, and pushed $12 million across the betting boards for the season.

Many of the world's finest jockeys started off in Cajun Country. A number of them have raced at Evangeline Downs race track.These include Randy Romero, Eddie Delahoussaye, Ray Sibille, Robbie Albarado, and multiple Eclipse Award winner Kent Desormeaux.

On the equine side, the famous John Henry won his very first stakes victory at Evangeline Downs race track. He captured the Lafayette Futurity on September 5, 1977. The winner of the inaugural $3 million Breeders Cup Classic, Wild Again, raced at Evangeline Downs race track in the early stages of his career.

In November 1988, Evangeline Downs race track became the sole recipient of the first inter-track wagering signal in Louisiana, simulcasting races from the New Orleans Fair Grounds.

In 1996, the voters of Lafayette Parish, where the town of Carencro is located, chose to outlaw video poker and casino gambling. Since Evangeline Downs race track had plans to offer these services in the racetrack, the 1996 vote became the catalyst for the eventual transfer of the track to nearby Opelousas, in Saint Landry Parish county.

On June 3, 2000, Hallowed Dreams set a new American record for consecutive victories by a thoroughbred filly. By winning the Tellike Stakes, she gained her 14th consecutive victory, in 14 starts.

In February 2003, Evangeline Downs race track officials broke ground on the new $96 million Evangeline Downs Casino and Racetrack in Opelousas. Track officials plan to complete construction and relocate in two years.

In December 2003, the new Evangeline Downs casino opened in Opelousas.

Address:
Evangeline Downs Race Track
Carencro, Louisiana

Fairmount Park Race Track Info - Illinois Racing Picks & Tips

Fairmount Park opened in 1925. The Fairmount Derby's of the '20s sent several winners to Churchill Downs that will eventually conquer the, the race is also considered one of the premier races in the country.

The one mile oval combination for thoroughbred racing constructed of clay and sand mixture. There are two chutes for six furlong and 1 1/4 mile races. Construction began 1924 by Culflash & Edwards and completed by Colonel Bradley and Matt Winn with design fashioned after Churchill Downs.

Fairmount Park has two race courses:
  • Main Track:One Mile, oval.
Fairmount Park Race Meets:
  • Live racing during the months of April to October- Tuesday, Friday to Sunday
Post Times:
  • 1:00pm
Fairmount by the numbers:
  • Main Track:One mile oval combination of clay and sand mixture.
  • Stable Area Capacity:1,080 stalls 22 barns
Mailing Address:
Fairmount Park
9301 Collinsville Road
Collinsville, Illinois 62234
Street Address:
9301 Collinsville Road
Collinsville, Illinois 62234

Fairplex Park Race Track Info - California Racing Picks & Tips

Fairplex Park is the home of live thoroughbred racing during the Fair as well as inter-track wagering fromHollywood Park, Santa Anita, Del Mar, Los Alamitos, as well as Bay Meadows, Golden Gate Fields,Aqueduct, and Woodbine (Canada) throughout the year.

Fairplex Park also carries quarter horse and harness racing from Los Alamitos and Cal Expo in Sacramento.

Horse racing trainers also stable and train their thoroughbreds at Fairplex Park. The track is open for training throughout the year for qualified thoroughbred horses in training for racing.

Fairplex has one main track:
  • Main Track:Five-eighths mile, oval.
Fairplex Racing Dates:
  • September 12 - September 28
  • Monday through Sunday
Post Times:
  • 12:30 p.m.
Mailing Address:
Fairplex Park
P.O. Box 2250
Pomona, California 91769
Street Address:
1101 W. McKinley Avenue
Pomona, California 91768

Hoosier Park Race Track

Hoosier Park race track is one of the Midwest's premier horse racing venues. This Anderson, Indiana facility has a 7/8 mile horse track that features thoroughbred, harness and quarter horse racing.

Hoosier Park race track hosts high-profile Stakes events every year - a testament to its importance in the Midwest's racing scene. Among these are:

  • Thoroughbred racing
  • Standardbred racing
  • Quarterhorse racing
  • Indiana Derby; Indiana Breeders' Cup Oaks; Michael G. Schaefer Mile Stakes; Hoosier Silver Cup Stakes
  • Dan Patch Invitational; Indiana Sires Stakes; Hoosier Cup
  • QHRAI Stallion Service Auction Derby and Futurity, Governor's Stake, Hoosier Park Classic and Indiana Breed Development Stake.
Hoosier Park Race Track Fact
  • Track length: 7/8 mile
  • Track width: 90 feet
  • Length of the homestretch: 1,255 feet
  • Degree of banking in the turns: 12°
  • Average number of races each night: 11
  • Average time between races: 20 minutes
  • Number of barns: 16
  • Number of horses accommodated: 1,080
Hoosier Park Race Track Records
Standardbred Records
Track History

1994

  • On September 1, Hoosier Park race track opened to a crowd of 7,633. B K Bentley won the very first race. The evening's handle was $406,485.
  • On November 12, Hoosier Park race track hosted the $40,000 Dan Patch Invitational. It attracted an impressive field of top horses and was the first race held in Hoosier Park race track that was simulcast to other venues. The race was won by Ready to Rumble with a time of 1:53.1.

1995

  • On January 25, Hoosier Park race track opened its first off-track betting facility at 7610 Broadway in Merrillville.
  • On April 26, the Park opened an off-track betting facility in Fort Wayne.
  • On September 1, Hoosier Park race track celebrated its first anniversary with the introduction of thoroughbred racing. A crowd of 5,283 turned out to see Minnatoga win the first race.
  • On October 25, the Park opened another off-track betting facility, this time in downtown Indianapolis.
  • On November 17, Hoosier Park race track had its first-ever million dollar evening as $1,085,338 was wagered on its twelve-race card.

1996

  • On November 29, the largest trifecta payoff in the history of the track was recorded. The payoff brought $31,775.20 for a $2 ticket.

1997

  • On August 22, the inaugural $500,000 Hoosier Cup for three-year-old pacing colts was won by Perfect Art with a time of 1:51.0.

The total amount paid for purses that evening was $676,900, establishing a new record.

1998

  • On September 12, Hoosier Park race track's all-time winningest jockey, Jon Court, won six races, marking a new record for most wins in one night by a jockey at the track.

1999

  • On April 9, Hoosier Park race track's sixth season of harness racing opened to a crowd of 3,635. It was the largest opening for standard bred racing since the 1994 season.
  • On October 2, Forty One Carats won the $300,000-added Indiana Derby with the nation's third leading rider, Jorge Chavez, aboard. A crowd of 10,063 was in attendance, the largest crowd in the track's history.

2002

  • On May 4, a record handle of $2,029,066 was accumulated for the afternoon and evening cards. This included simulcast wagers for the 128th running of the Kentucky Derby. This also marked the first time the state of Indiana saw single-day handle from all its tracks combined exceed $2 million during harness season.
  • On September 21, the richest night in quarter horse racing was held. It featured the $45,000 QHRAI Stallion Service Auction Futurity, the $25,000 QHRAI Stallion Service Auction Derby, and the $15,000 Indiana Breed Development Stake.
Address:
Hoosier Park Race Track
Anderson, Indiana

Kentucky Downs Race Track Info - Kentucky Racing Picks & Tips

Kentucky Downs is home of North America's only all-turf flat racing thoroughbred track. Originally called the Dueling Grounds in reference to a nearby site that was famous for pistol duels in the 1800's.Kentucky Downs is now the place to see competitors of the highest caliber spar on the track.

Located in Franklin, Kentucky, Kentucky Downs is near the Kentucky-Tennessee border. Its Fall Meettakes place during the month of September with the highlight being the Grade 3 $500,000 Kentucky Cup Turf Festival.

Kentucky Downs has one main track:
  • Turf Course:One mile and three-eighths European-style.
Kentucky Downs Racing Dates:
  • 2nd week of September, Saturday through Tuesday
Post Times:
  • 12:00 p.m
Mailing Address:
Kentucky Downs
P.O. Box 405
Franklin, Kentucky 42134
Street Address:
I-65, exit 2
Franklin, Kentucky 42134

Mountaineer Park Race Track

Mountaineer Park race track is a thoroughbred race track in Chester, West Virginia. It is located along the scenic Ohio River on West Virginia's North shore and is part of a bigger gaming resort complex. Located approximately 40 miles south of Youngstown, Ohio, 109 miles south of Cleveland, Ohio and 38 miles west of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Mountaineer Park race track offers year-round live thoroughbred racing.

Mountaineer Park race track is often referred to as an "entergamement" complex as it offers three main draws: horse racing, live entertainment shows and slots gaming. In fact, it is well-known for its 3,200 slot machines. There are also facilities or conventions and special events.

Mountaineer Park race track hosts many important racing events in a year. Among these are the West Virginia Derby, WV Governor's Handicap, Mountaineer Mile Handicap, Panhandle Handicap, Labor Day Handicap, Autumn Leaves Handicap and the Mountain State Handicap.

Mountaineer Park Race Track Facts
  • Main Track : 1 1/8 miles
  • Turf Course: 1 mile
  • Distance from last turn to finish line: 7/8 mile

North American Turf Records established at Mountaineer Park Race Track

A Brief History of Mountaineer Park Race Track

Established in 1951 as a horse racing venue, Mountaineer Park race track historically focused its operations on pari-mutuel wagering and related amenities. Since the mid-1990s however, the Company has repositioned the facility as a gaming, convention and diversified entertainment destination. Its main sources of visitor traffic are Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Mountaineer Park race track has been substantially renovated and expanded, and has incrementally increased the number of slot machines as legislative developments either permitted or made their operation more profitable.

Address:
Mountaineer Park Race Track
Chester, West Virginia

Penn National Race Course

Penn National Race Course is a one-mile thoroughbred race track in Grantville, Pennsylvania. Live racing is held year-round.

Penn National's illustrious history and tradition has made it a major force in Central Pennsylvania's sports and entertainment scene. Through the wonders of simulcasting, its racing program is viewed by patrons across the nation and the world.Penn National Race Course hosts some of the more prominent Stakes racing events in the state.

Among these are:
  • The Pennsylvania Governor's Cup
  • The Missy Good Stakes
  • The John J. Shumaker Handicap
  • Jenny Wade Handicap
  • Capital City Handicap
  • Blue Mountain Juvenile Stakes
Penn National Race Course Track Facts
  • Main Track :one mile, oval
  • Turf Course:seven furlongs
  • Distance from last turn to finish line :990 feet
History of Penn National Race Course

1972

  • Penn National opened its doors to a crowd of 10,686 on August 30. The track was owned and built by a group of civic leaders from Central Pennsylvania. In its first season, the track only had 100 racing dates.
  • Penn National established a year-round racing calendar.

1983

  • Penn National pioneered the use of account wagering through the telephone.

1991

  • In March, the first off-track wagering facility opened in Erie, Pennsylvania.

1994

  • On May 26, 1994, Penn National Gaming, Inc, issued $18 million of stock in a public offering. It is now traded on NASDAQ.

1996

  • In November, Penn National Gaming, Inc. purchased Pocono Downs.

1997

  • In January, Penn National Gaming, Inc. purchased Charles Town Races.

1998

  • Penn National off-track wagering facilities rose to 10.

2000

  • An 11th off-track wagering facility was opened in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.
Address:
Penn National Race Course
Grantville, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia Park Race Track

Philadelphia Park race track is a thoroughbred racing facility in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. It has two tracks that feature year-round horse racing.

Philadelphia Park race track is the proud home of Pennsylvania's premier thoroughbred race, the Pennsylvania Derby. Held on Labor Day, the Pennsylvania Derby is a nine-furlong race for three year olds.

The other events it hosts annually include the Cotillion Handicap, the Pennsylvania Oaks, the Larry R. Riviello President's Cup, the My Juliet, the Gallant Bob Handicap and the Steve Van Buren Handicap.

Philadelphia Park race track is the home of 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner Smarty Jones.

His victories have generated renewed interest for this track.

Philadelphia Park Race Track Facts
  • Main Track:one mile, oval
  • Turf Course:seven furlongs, oval
  • Distance from last turn to finish line:974 feet
History of Philadelphia Park Race Track

1974

  • In November, Philadelphia Park race track opened under its original name Keystone.

1984

  • The track was purchased by ITB for $40 million.
  • It got its new name, a new turf course, and a new way to wager called Phonebet Philadelphia Park Race Track Bensalem, Pennsylvania

1990

  • In December, Greenwood Racing became the track's new owner.
  • Full card simulcasting was added.
  • Five off-track locations called Turf Clubs were also added.

1999

  • The paddock at Philadelphia Park race track was expanded and refurbished while the Grandstand's exterior was repainted.
  • A modern Turf Club was unveiled, complete with plush simulcast theaters, a brand new dining room, and sports bar, a horsemen's lounge, and a grand entrance.

Prairie Meadows

Prairie Meadows is a Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racetrack and racino in Altoona, Iowa.

History and information

Prairie Meadows in March 2007

In 1984, Prairie Meadows received a license from the Iowa Racing and Gaming commission to operate a horse racing facility after parimutuel betting was legalized by the state. In 1987, groundbreaking ceremonies were held for Prairie Meadows.

Prairie Meadows conducted its first day of racing on March 1, 1989. However, the track lost money during its first few years of operation and filed for bankruptcy in 1991. Live racing was suspended for the 1992 season before revenues from off-track betting allowed racing to resume the following year.

On May 17, 1994, Polk County voters approved a referendum allowing the installation of slot machines at Prairie Meadows.

On April 1, 1995, the slot machine casino opened at Prairie Meadows, and by the end of 1996, Prairie Meadows was able to pay off the bonds that were issued by the Polk County Board of Supervisors.

On December 14, 2004, Prairie Meadows added casino game tables after receiving state approval to do so. As a result of the high demand for these tables, the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission approved Prairie Meadows' plans to expand its facility on January 25, 2005. Construction on the $60 million expansion began in September 2005. An addition to the casino opened in August 2006, while two new restaurants and a 1,200-seat concert hall known as "The Meadows" opened in February 2007.

Prairie Meadows is owned by Polk County and operated by the non-profit Racing Association of Central Iowa, a 13-member board of Polk County residents. The revenues generated by Prairie Meadows are given to various community projects in the Des Moines area, including construction of the Iowa Events Center complex in downtown Des Moines.

Physical attributes

Prairie Meadows has a one mile dirt track with a chute for quarter horses. On site is a casino with 1,750 slot machines and casino game tables featuring games such aspoker, roulette, and blackjack. The track area has also hosted free concerts by national musical acts in recent years.

Racing
  • Horses are about to cross the finish line during a September 5, 2005, race at Prairie Meadows
  • Prairie Meadows runs many stakes and handicaps during its April to October season.
  • The April to July season is all thoroughbred and the July to October season is mixed thoroughbreds and quarter horses.
  • The track runs two graded stakes races during the thoroughbred season.
They are:
  • Grade 2 Prairie Meadows Cornhusker Breeders' Cup Handicap
  • Grade 3 Iowa Oaks Stakes
  • Iowa Derby

River Downs

History

River Downs opened in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1925. It was opened 15 years after the closing of a previous track in Cincinnati, Old Oakley Race Course. The race track sits right along the banks of the Ohio River.

The famous horse Seabiscuit made two appearances at River Downs in 1936. His trainer "Silent Tom" Smith shipped the horse in from Detroit with jockey "Red" Pollard for two consecutive starts. On October 3, 1936, he ran third in the Western Hills Handicap and two weeks later he ran third in the Eastern Hills Handicap.

The track managed to survive the disastrous Cincinnati flood of 1937 and re-opened under the name of "River Downs."

Races were and still are held primarily in summer. The 7-furlong turf course was created in 1956, making River Downs the 13th track in America with a grass racing strip. The infield grass course has drawn rave reviews from horsemen across the country.

On May 17, 1976 an apprentice jockey won the eighth race at River Downs aboard Red Pipe. It was the race that would launch the career of one of the world's most renowned riders, Steve Cauthen. "The Kid", as he was called, went on to be the leading apprentice and overall rider at River Downs that season. He later rode Affirmed to become the youngest rider to sweep the Triple Crown.

During the 1980's, the Miller Genuine Draft Cradle Stakes grew to become the richest race for 2-year-olds in the state of Ohio. The 1983 winner, Coax Me Chad, went on to a second-place finish behind Swale in the Kentucky Derby the following year.

The 1984 "Cradle" winner did his predecessor one better – he won the Kentucky Derby. Spend A Buck not only won the Derby, but went on to win ten races and over $4.2 million, eventually being crowned Horse of the Year.

Over the decades, the wooden grandstand began to strain. The current track owners and managers, who purchased the facility in 1975, elected to construct an entirely new grandstand, beginning immediately at the end of the 1988 racing season.

Management kept the style of the traditional open-air grandstand. Wooden benches were replaced with well-spaced stadium seats, a game room was installed next to a new gift shop, and escalators ferry the bettors to an expanded mezzanine level with numerous concession stands, betting windows and Finnigans Pub.

In addition to the $16 million grandstand, the paddock was doubled in size, accentuating the River Downs' philosophy that fans like to be close to the action and the horses. Following the 1989 reconstruction of the grandstand, several million dollars were invested in upgrading the Clubhouse. A new air-conditioning unit was installed, over 250 television monitors were put in place, and the upper Clubhouse was extensively renovated with decor that included cherry wood and Italian marble.

On September 19, 1996, state legislation finally allowed Full Card simulcasting to take place in the state. In a matter of weeks after the live meet ended, the River Downs Clubhouse became the country's most modern simulcasting center – the River Downs RaceBook. Thoroughbred and harness racing from across the nation is broadcast over a new 500 set state-of-the-art television system that features over one hundred 40-inch, high-resolution direct-view televisions.

With the advent of increased simulcasting and the innovative Twin Seven Supercard, River Downs has installed a unique 110 channel in-house television system that allows the viewers access to race replays of every race, advance viewing of upcoming simulcast race conditions and preview shows, and changing odds formats and program changes. The track is the first to show viewers the "Instant Exacta" – a graphic that displays current payoffs for the first two horses as the race is being run.

River Downs is also the first track to feature a channel showing a "minutes to post" chronological display of all tracks.

Only months after the renovation of the River Downs RaceBook, the track fell victim to the Cincinnati flood of 1997.

Waters flowed over the banks of the Ohio River in March at a rate that had not been witnessed for over 50 years.

The entire lower level of the Clubhouse was flooded, as was the entire first level of the grandstand, office area and barn area. The track lost only 18 days of operation, however, before the upper level of the RaceBook was back in operation.

The track was reopened on schedule for live racing in late April. In addition to a completely new lower-level Clubhouse, the backstretch underwent extensive improvements including a newly designed and renovated racing office and kitchen area.

Live racing

Live racing is held at the track from the beginning of April until Labor Day weekend.

Rockingham Park

Rockingham Park is a 1-mile (1.6 km) horse racing establishment in Salem, New Hampshire, in the United States.

First built in 1906, it was used as an area for many to gamble on the weekends. Seabiscuit raced there in 1935 and 1936, [1]and Mom's Command ran in her first race and gained her first victory there in 1984.[2] Rockingham Park now only hosts standardbred races. Rockingham Park was the first place to receive car gates for starting races in 1998.

The New Hampshire Sweepstakes (now New Hampshire Lottery) was originated in 1964 and raced here from 1964 to 1967.

The race was brought back in 1984 (though not connected with sweepstakes tickets) and has since been the feature event of the summer racing meet.

"The Finest Racecourse in the World"

On June 28, 1906, a tiny outpost near the Salem train depot began a 21-day tenure as host to a Thoroughbred meet.

Over 10,000 people from as far away as Boston, Rhode Island, and New York flocked to the small New Hampshire town.

Their rave reviews proclaimed the site "the finest racecourse in the world".[3] Although Alyth, a two-year-old, won the first thoroughbred race at the site, gambling was still illegal at the time in New Hampshire, and betting was shut down after three days. Underground wagering continued throughout the meet, but the track sat idle for five years after the meet's conclusion; however, these humble beginnings would lead to the formation of a staple of New England culture rich with the history of the sport of kings.

Idle years

In between its stints as a racecourse, the site served as host to a number of historical occurrences. Before the return of racing, Rockingham Park hosted the first aviationmeet in New England in 1911, where Lieutenant Milling set a new altitude record of 1,600 feet (490 m) in his biplane.

The track also served as the base for the 14th US Army Corps of Engineers during World War I. The racecourse served as a bivouac for soldiers prior to voyages to France.

Motor racing venue

The establishment has hosted motorized racing. On July 4, 1925 the track was used for a 100 miles (160 km) race with an average speed of 76.8 miles per hour. Motorcycles races also were held. With the success of the events, a 2 mile board trackwas built. The track was sanctioned by the AAA, the most recognized sanctioning body of the day. On October 31, a 250 mile automobile race was held on the board track. On August 21, 1926, Curly Fredericks, on an Altoona, set the record for the fastest speed (120.3 miles per hour) that a motorcycle would attain on an oval board track. In 1928, the track held the final motorcycle national championships to be competed on a board track. The 1929 event was held at a dirt track because the inherent dangers in board track racing were discovered, dangers which led to the demise of the sport. The boards on the board track were rotting by 1929 and the board track was torn down. The track was used again as a board track later that year, with 45,000 spectators for aLabor Day event and 52,000 spectators for a Columbus Day event.

Sam Houston Race Park

Sam Houston Race Park is a horse racing track located in northwest Houston, Texas. Built at a cost of approximately $90 million and opened on April 24, 1994, the facility is the first Class 1 horse racing venue constructed in Texas.

Sam Houston Race Park's largest attendance was recorded on July 4, 1999 when 23,324 people visited. The race park is considered fastest growing race track in America based on attendance over the past year.

The race track hosts two live race meets annually. Thoroughbred horse racing is held each November through March.

American Quarter Horse races are held from the end of June through September.

Races at Sam Houston Among others:
  • The Grade III $200,000 Connally Breeders' Cup Turf
  • The $100,000 MAXXAM Gold Cup
  • The $75,000 Martanza Stakes
  • The $50,000 Jersey Lilly Stakes
  • The $50,000 Sam Houston Turf Sprint Cup
  • The $45,000 Mission Stakes
  • The $45,000 Fort Bend Country Stakes
  • The $45,000 Spring Stakes
  • The $45,000 Sam Houston Oaks
  • The $45,000 Texas Heritage Stakes
  • The $45,000 Tomball Stakes
  • The $45,000 Jersey Village Stakes
  • The $29,250 Allen's Landing Stakes
  • The $25,000 Space City Stakes
  • The $25,000 Buffalo Bayou Stakes
  • The $25,000 Black Gold Stakes
  • The $25,000 Texans Stakes
Concert Events

Recently it has been cleared to host concert events during the summer.

Sunland Park Race Track

Rich in history, Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino recently completed its greatest season since being founded in 1959. Powered by over 700 slot machines, Sunland Park racing offers a daily average purse distribution of $250,000. That figure was around $35,000 in the early 1990's.

Sunland Park races are simulcast in approximately 800 simulcast locations throughout North America. Nearly $54 million was wagered on the Sunland product last season, up over 32% from the previous season. Business continues to surge, bolstered by full fields and increased racing quality.

A new wagering record was set on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003 when $1,701,961 was bet on a 12-race Sunland Park card.

Throughout much of the 1960's and 1970's, Sunland Park Racetrack was a gateway to the East and West for top racing talent.

Stakes stars like Winsham Lad, Fast Gas, Prince Astro, Nevada Phil and Bold Liz sharpened their skills in the early days at Sunland Park.

The 1980 Riley Allison Futurity winner Bold Ego went on to post a close second to Pleasant Colony in the 1981 Preakness Stakes. The 1985 Riley Allison Futurity reached national prominence with an all-time high record purse of nearly $340,000.

Nationally riding stars Jerry Bailey, Pat Valenzuela, Cash Asmussen and Mike Smith all began their careers at Sunland Park.

Hall of Fame jockey Bill Shoemaker was born in nearby Fabens, Texas. "The Shoe" made a series of appearances at Sunland Park during his career.

Super star trainers Bob Baffert and D. Wayne Lukas each won Quarter Horse stakes races at Sunland Park at the beginning of their careers.

Horseracing fans were treated to another great season of racing in the 2007-2008 Tampa Bay Downs meet. With increased daily average purse money, a record-setting $2.6 million dollar stakes program, and year-round poker, Tampa Bay Downs is the place to be in the winter!Tampa Bay Downs was pleased to announce two new graded stakes races for its 82nd season: The Grade III $200,000 Florida Oaks, held on Festival Day, March 15; and the Grade III $150,000 Endeavour Breeders' Cup Stakes, which was held on Festival Preview Day, February 16. The Grade III Florida Oaks is a 1 1/16 mile test for three-year-old fillies on the Triple Tiara trail. The Grade III Endeavour Breeders' Cup is a turf feature for fillies and mares four years old and upward running about 1 1/16 miles.

Tampa Bay Downs is the only Thoroughbred race track on the West Coast of Florida, and is known as one of America's oldest and most well-maintained racetracks. Tampa Bay Downs first opened its doors in 1926 under the name of Tampa Downs, and has since had a long and colorful history. The present owner purchased the track in 1986, and since then the Tampa Bay Downs has been continually improving.

Tampa Bay Downs added its 7/8th mile grass track, complete with a ¼ mile chute, in 1998, and has become one of the most popular turf courses in North America. The millennium brought even more amenities to Tampa Bay Downs, including The Downs Golf Practice Facility, which allows patrons to practice their swing while viewing and wagering on simulcast racing; as well as The Silks Poker Room , the card room that has become one of the hottest spots in town.

Simulcast racing is broadcast throughout the track mainly on new flat-screened plasma or LCD televisions on both live racing days and during the track's off-season. Join us for all the sporting excitement at Tampa Bay Downs! Gates open at 11:00 AM and post time for the first race is 12:25 PM, unless otherwise noted.

Thistledown Race Track

THISTLEDOWN RACE TRACK (est. 1925) was the area's major horse running track in 1995. Built by John H. McMillen on land owned by William B. Chisholm in the Village of NORTH RANDALL, Thistledown opened for 1 racing season beginning 20 July 1925; however, legal complications and management quarrels led to its closing in 1926.

In 1928 Edward B. Strong bought the track from receivers for $900,000 in the hope that Ohio would repeal its law against trackside betting. Until betting was legalized at state-controlled tracks in 1933, Thistledown betting proceeded under the "contribution" system, whereby patrons could "invest" in or "contribute" to the ultimate success of a horse; that permitted bettors to make their own odds without the intervention of bookies or racetrack employees.

Racing continued at Thistledown through the 1944 season, but a $500,000 fire on 29 October 1944 destroyed the grandstand and clubhouse. Plans to rebuild and reopen were delayed by wartime restrictions on construction, and in Aug. 1950 Cleveland Raceway Inc. purchased the track from Strong's estate. After a $3 million rebuilding program, it reopened on 11 Sept. 1953. The 1954 season, offering racing purses totaling $800,000, attracted horsemen from as far away as Rhode Island and Florida.

The most prestigious race held is the $300,000 Ohio Derby for 3-year-old runners, which, by 1996, had been held 62 times at Thistledown. In 1959 Edward DeBartolo purchased the track for $5 million, but he made no major renovations until 1981.

By this time Sunday racing, begun in 1974, had been canceled due to poor economic conditions. In 1983 the Thoroughbred track,the state's largest, attracted 895,689 customers who wagered $114.8 million on the races, but the track lost nearly $1 million. The state legislature gave the racing industry a $12.4 million annual tax break in 1984. In 1986 Thistledown completed a $29 million renovation program for the track's grandstand and restaurant, making the grandstand glass-enclosed and climate controlled. By the 1990s the racing season at Thistledown (set by the Ohio Racing Commission) averaged 210 days per year and included the Summit, Randall, Thistledown, and Cranwood meetings. In 1995 Mike Mackey served as general manager of the track.

Turf Paradise Race Track Info - Arizona Racing Picks & Tips

Turf Paradise was born when Phoenix businessman Walter Cluer, purchased 1,400 acres of barren desert in 1954.

Cluer was also a horse owner whose personal dream was to build a first-class race track in Phoenix.

Discuss Turf Paradise Picks and Tips in the horse racing handicapping forum.

And on January 7, 1956, Turf Paradise opened its doors to Phoenicians who responded by filling every seat and standing shoulder-to-shoulder to welcome pari-mutuel racing to Arizona and the Valley's first sports franchise.

The Turf Paradise Derby is a $1 million stakes race held annually in February. The race is participated by top 3-year-old contenders eyeing a spot in theKentucky Derby and the Triple Crown.

Turf Paradise has two race courses:
  • Main Track:One mile, oval.
  • Turf Course:Seven Furlongs.
Turf Paradise Race Meets:
  • January to May; September to December
  • Friday through Tuesday
Post Times:
  • 12:30pm
Turf Paradise by the numbers:
  • Main Track:One mile, oval
  • Turf Course:7 furlongs
  • Admission:Grandstand - $2.00
  • Clubhouse & Turf Club - $4.00
  • General Parking - Free
Mailing Address:
Turf Paradise
1501 West Bell Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85023
Street Address:
1501 West Bell Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85023

Woodbine

Woodbine is a thoroughbred and harness racing facility in Rexdale, Ontario, Canada that has three tracks.

It is widely acknowledged as Canada's premier horse racing track.

Woodbine is home to two of the three gems in Canada's Triple Crown. The Queen's Plate, the oldest continuously run stakes race, and the Breeders' Stakes, the third gem, are both run at Woodbine.

The middle stakes race is the Prince of Wales Stakes which is run at Fort Erie Race Track. Other famous races held at Woodbine include the ATTO Mile; the Canadian International and the North America Cup for standardbreds.

The first thoroughbred race was held at Woodbine on June 12, 1956 while the first harness race was held on January 1, 1994.

Attendance-wise, the largest ever recorded for thoroughbred racing was 42,243 and 7,266 for harness racing.

Woodbine has a total seating capacity of 13,000 and a stabling capacity of 1,860 stalls.

Woodbine Track Facts

Main Track

  • Main Track:Oval
  • Track Material:Dirt
  • Track Length:1 mile with a 7 furlong and 1 1/4 mile chutes
  • Track Width:85 feet
  • Homestretch Length:975 feet
  • Banking on Turns:6%
  • Track Seating Capacity:12,000

E.P. Taylor Turf Course

  • Track Shape:Other
  • Track Material:Turf (Kentucky Bluegrass)
  • Track Length:1-1/2 miles with a 1 1/8 mile chute
  • Homestretch Width:100 feet
  • Backstretch Width:120 feet
  • Homestretch Length:1,440 feet
  • Banking on Turns:4%

Harness Track

  • Track Shape:Oval
  • Track Length:Seven Furlongs
  • Homestretch Width:85 feet
  • Homestretch Length:976 Feet
  • Speed Rating:v1:563
  • Standing Start Positions:10
Woodbine History

1874

  • The original Woodbine race track opened on the then-far eastern outskirts of Toronto.

1956

  • On June 12, the new Woodbine track opened to thoroughbred racing.

1994

  • On January 1, Woodbine track welcomed harness racing.

2000

  • Slot machines were introduced at Woodbine track.
Address:
Woodbine Rexdale, Ontario