Horse racing is an exciting sport that has been around for centuries and continues to be enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Horse racing has been enjoyed in the Denver area for many years, but does Denver have horse racing today? The answer is yes, and in this article, we’ll explore the history of horse racing in Denver and the current state of the sport in the city.
History of Horse Racing in Denver
Horse racing has a long history in the Denver area, dating back to the late 1800s. The first recorded horse race in the area was held in 1875 at the Denver Race Course, which operated until 1921. This track was located in what is now the Five Points neighborhood, and was the site of many famous races and events.
During the early 1900s, horse racing was extremely popular in Denver, with several tracks operating throughout the city. The most famous of these tracks was the Denver Mile High Racetrack, which was built in 1910 and operated until 1974. The Mile High Racetrack was the site of many of the most famous horse races in Denver’s history, and was a popular destination for spectators and horse owners alike.
The Rise of Off-Track Betting
In the 1970s, the popularity of horse racing in Denver began to decline, due in part to the rise of off-track betting. This new form of betting allowed people to bet on races from all over the world without having to attend the event in person. As a result, many of the horse racing tracks in the Denver area were forced to close, as they could no longer draw in enough spectators to stay profitable.
Current State of Horse Racing in Denver
Despite the decline of horse racing in Denver, the sport continues to be enjoyed today. The city is home to two major racetracks, Arapahoe Park and Mile High Racing. Both of these tracks offer live racing and simulcast wagering. Arapahoe Park is located in nearby Aurora, while Mile High Racing is located in the former Mile High Racetrack.
Arapahoe Park offers live horse racing from May to September, and features both Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing. This track is one of the most popular in the Denver area, and is the home of the popular Colorado Derby.
Mile High Racing is the other major racetrack in Denver, and offers both Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing. This track is located in the former Mile High Racetrack, and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and exciting events. It also features simulcast wagering, so you can bet on races from all over the world without having to attend in person.
Conclusion
To answer the question, yes, Denver does have horse racing today. While the popularity of the sport has declined in recent years, due in part to the rise of off-track betting, there are still two major racetracks in the Denver area that offer live racing and simulcast wagering. Whether you’re a fan of the sport or just looking for an exciting experience, horse racing in Denver is sure to be an unforgettable experience.