The California Exposition and State Fair, commonly known as Cal Expo, is an annual event held in Sacramento, California. It is a celebration of California’s culture and heritage and features a wide variety of attractions, including carnival rides, food vendors, and live entertainment. One of the attractions often associated with state fairs is horse racing, so the question arises: does Cal Expo have horse racing?
History of Horse Racing at Cal Expo
Horse racing has been a part of Cal Expo since the fair’s first year in 1967. It was held at the Sacramanto Mile, a one-mile oval track located on the grounds of Cal Expo. The track featured both flat races and harness races, and was popular with local race fans.
In the early 2000s, however, the Sacramanto Mile was closed due to a lack of interest and declining revenues. Since then, horse racing has not been held at Cal Expo.
Alternative Horse Racing Venues Near Cal Expo
Although horse racing is not offered at Cal Expo, there are several alternative horse racing venues in the Sacramento area. The most popular of these is the Sacramento Raceway Park, which is located just outside of the city. The raceway offers a variety of quarter-mile and half-mile harness races throughout the summer and fall, as well as special events such as demolition derbies and monster truck rallies.
Other Horse Racing Events in California
In addition to the raceway in Sacramento, there are a number of other horse racing venues in California. The most well-known of these is the Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, which is the home of the famous Santa Anita Derby and Santa Anita Handicap.
Other popular horse racing venues in California include Del Mar Racetrack in Del Mar, Golden Gate Fields in Berkeley, and Hollywood Park in Inglewood. Each of these venues offers a variety of thoroughbred and harness races throughout the year.
Betting on Horse Races
Betting on horse races is a popular activity for many race fans. In California, betting on horse races is legal and regulated by the California Horse Racing Board. There are a number of licensed betting establishments throughout the state, including online betting sites.
In addition to betting at the track, horse race fans can also bet on races through off-track betting (OTB) locations. These are establishments that are licensed to accept bets on horse races. OTB locations are located throughout California, including many in the Sacramento area.
Finding Horse Racing Events
Horse racing fans can find information on upcoming races and events at the websites of the California Horse Racing Board and the racetracks themselves. Additionally, there are a number of websites that offer information on horse racing events in the state, such as California Race Tracks and California Horse Racing Fan.
Spectating Horse Races
Spectating horse races is a great way to experience the excitement of the sport. Race fans can purchase tickets to the racetrack and watch the races live. Additionally, many tracks offer simulcasting, which allows race fans to watch races from other tracks around the country.
Attending Horse Racing Events
Attending a horse racing event is an exciting experience. Many tracks offer a variety of activities and events in addition to the races, such as live music, food and beverage stands, and family-friendly activities. Additionally, many tracks offer special events such as concerts and fireworks shows.
Conclusion
In conclusion, horse racing is not currently offered at Cal Expo, but there are a number of alternative horse racing venues in the Sacramento area, as well as throughout California. Race fans can find information on upcoming races and events at the websites of the California Horse Racing Board and the racetracks themselves. Additionally, spectators can purchase tickets to the racetrack and watch the races live, or take advantage of simulcasting to watch races from other tracks around the country. Finally, many tracks offer a variety of activities and events in addition to the races, making them great places for a day of fun for the whole family.