Racing is one of the most popular sports in the United States, and Northfield Park is the premier harness racing track in the Cleveland area. Established in 1934, Northfield Park has been a staple of the northeastern Ohio racing scene for decades, and today is one of the most popular and successful harness racing tracks in the country. So, the question arises – is Northfield Park running today?
History of Northfield Park
Northfield Park is located in Northfield, Ohio, and was originally built by the legendary harness racing promoter and entrepreneur, O.D. (Doc) Strates. Strates had a vision of creating a world-class harness racing venue that would bring the sport to the forefront in the Cleveland area. He began by purchasing the original property in 1934 and then built the track in 1937. The track has been in continuous operation ever since and continues to be a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike.
What is Harness Racing?
Harness racing is a form of horse racing in which the horse is driven by a driver in a two-wheeled cart called a sulky. The horses are harnessed in a specific type of harness that is designed to reduce the amount of effort needed to move the horses and to reduce the chance of injury. The horses race around a track at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, and the drivers use whips and other techniques to urge their horses on. The sport requires an immense amount of skill and strength from both the horse and the driver.
What is Northfield Park?
Northfield Park is a premier harness racing track located in Northfield, Ohio. The track is a 1/2 mile oval and is made up of a dirt surface with a sand and clay mix. The track is also home to a variety of special events such as the Ohio Sires Stakes, the Buckeye Classic, and the Cleveland Classic. The track also features a variety of other amenities such as a clubhouse, a restaurant, and a gift shop.
Is Northfield Park Running Today?
Yes, Northfield Park is running today. The track is open for racing every day of the week except for Sunday, and there are typically 10-12 races per day. The racing season runs from May through October, and the track features both live racing and simulcasting. The track also offers a variety of special events throughout the year such as the Buckeye Classic and the Cleveland Classic.
Types of Bets
At Northfield Park, there are a variety of different types of bets that can be placed. These include:
- Win: A Win bet is when you pick the horse that you think will finish first in the race.
- Place: A Place bet is when you pick the horse that you think will finish either first or second in the race.
- Show: A Show bet is when you pick the horse that you think will finish either first, second, or third in the race.
- Exacta: An Exacta bet is when you pick the two horses that you think will finish first and second in the exact order.
- Trifecta: A Trifecta bet is when you pick the three horses that you think will finish first, second, and third in the exact order.
- Superfecta: A Superfecta bet is when you pick the four horses that you think will finish first, second, third, and fourth in the exact order.
Racing Schedule
Northfield Park typically has 10-12 races every day, with the first race starting at 6:00 PM. The track is open for both live racing and simulcasting on most days, and the track also offers special events throughout the year such as the Buckeye Classic and the Cleveland Classic.
Admission & Parking
Admission to the track is free, and there is free parking available in the Northfield Park parking lot. The track also offers a variety of food and beverage options.
Safety & Security
The safety of both the horses and the human participants is paramount at Northfield Park. The track is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all participants. The track also has a variety of security measures in place, such as security cameras and security guards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Northfield Park is running today and is a great destination for both locals and visitors alike. The track offers a variety of races and special events throughout the year, and is one of the premier harness racing tracks in the country. So, if you’re looking for a great day of racing, be sure to check out Northfield Park!