Does Philadelphia Have Horse Racing?
Horse racing is a sport that is enjoyed across the United States, but there are few states that offer a wider range of racing venues than Pennsylvania.
Throughout a season, the state offers top-level prizes and huge purses, which attracts some of the biggest names in the world of Thoroughbred racing to the area.
However, there have also been some unfortunate stories in the history of racing in certain areas of the state, with Philadelphia seeing notable venues close down. You can find more information about future events in horse racing here: twinspires.com/200-signup/.
But is there a racing venue in Philadelphia, and where are some of the best locations to watch horse racing action in the state?
Liberty Bell Park
One of the finest former racecourses in Philadelphia that is no longer in operation comes in the form of Liberty Bell Park. This location opened its doors for the first time in 1963, but it would remain open for just 22 years.
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Harness racing was staged at the track throughout its history, with Thoroughbred racing only in operation between 1969 and 1974. Plans to open Liberty Bell Park were formalized in 1961 following excellent campaigning work by former Philadelphia Eagles owner James P. Clark.
However, unfortunately, he would never see the track in operation after passing away just months before doors were opened to the public. After a period of success, the track’s fortunes were ended in 1983 after legislation was signed by Governor Dick Thorburgh, which led to the site being put up for sale in 1986. It was eventually sold, with Philadelphia Mills constructed on the old site of the racecourse.
Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack
One of the most popular racecourses that remains in operation in Philadelphia comes in the form of Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack. This venue is also one of the newest in the U.S., as it was only officially opened for harness racing in September 2006.
The location of the track is based on the former Sun Shipbuilding campus. It gained a slots license in September 2006, and sports betting at the venue has been available since January 2019. Harness racing takes place at the track on 150 days throughout the year, with meetings being held between April and December. Race days are held on Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
As well as being able to watch live racing, fans of the sport can also wager via simulcast on action taking place across the United States and Canada.
Parx Casino and Racing
The most popular horse racing venue in the state of Pennsylvania is located in Bensalem, as Parx Casino and Racing hosts some of the most important events on the schedule. Parx has hosted racing action since 1974, replacing Liberty Bell Park Racetrack. It was also previously known at Philadelphia Park before being rebranded to Parx in August 2010.
Some of the sport’s biggest names have competed at the track throughout their careers, including stars such as Spectacular Bid, Summer Squall, and Shuvee. It also gained in prominence in the early 2000s, as Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner Smarty Jones originally called Parx home. The two big races on the Thoroughbred schedule at Parx come in the form of the Pennsylvania Derby and Cotillion Handicap.
The former is a major prep race ahead of the Breeders’ Cup, and is staged annually in September. Winners of the race include Hot Rod Charlie, Bayern, and Harlan’s Holiday. Meanwhile, the Cotillion Handicap was previously held at Liberty Bell Park, and is contested between fillies aged three. Legendary winners include Susan’s Girl, Untapable, and Ashado.
Presque Isle Downs
Another fresh track in the local area was opened in February 2007 in Summit Township in the form of Presque Isle Downs. This track is operated and owned by Churchill Downs Inc, and it is a major spot for casino lovers, with over 1,500 machines found at the location.
There is a synthetic racetrack located at Presque Isle Downs, ensuring that racing can be held throughout the season. A number of stakes races are held at the location throughout the season, including the Presque Isle Mile and the Tom Ridge Stakes. However, the main attraction on the schedule comes in the form of the Presque Isle Downs Masters Stakes.
This Grade Two race is held annually in September, with fillies and mares competing over a distance of 6 ½ furlongs. Since its introduction in 2007, it has been a notable stepping stone for runners that have attempted to compete at the Breeders’ Cup.
A notable winner of both races came in the form of Informed Decision, who would later land the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint in 2009. The double was also later achieved by Groupie Doll, who landed success in the same Breeders’ Cup race in both 2012 and 2013. Recent winners of the race include Hotshot Anna and Roses For Debra.
PHOTO: Viarprodesign/FreePik
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