Illinois is known for being home to some of the best horse racing tracks in the United States. With its long history of horse racing, the state has become a major player in the sport. In this article, we will explore the various horse tracks located in Illinois, as well as their individual histories and current events.
History of Horse Racing in Illinois
Horse racing in Illinois has a long and storied history. The first horse racing track in the state was opened in 1834 at the Sangamon County Fairgrounds, and by 1841, there were several racetracks located throughout the state. Horse racing became popular in Illinois during the late 19th century and early 20th century, with the sport being featured at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1933.
The sport of horse racing has been a major contributor to the Illinois economy, with many of the racetracks located in the state providing thousands of jobs and generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. Horse racing has also been a major source of entertainment for many Illinoisans, with the sport being featured at state fairs and other events.
Types of Horse Racing in Illinois
Horse racing in Illinois is divided into two main categories: flat racing and harness racing. Flat racing is the most popular form of horse racing in the state, with races being held on both dirt and turf tracks. Harness racing involves horses pulling a two-wheeled cart known as a sulky, and races are typically held on a half-mile track.
Major Horse Racing Tracks in Illinois
There are currently eight major horse racing tracks located in Illinois. These tracks are listed below:
- Arlington International Racecourse
- Hawthorne Race Course
- Fairmount Park Racetrack
- Balmoral Park
- Maywood Park
- Quincy Raceways
- Sportsman’s Park
- Washington Park Racetrack
Arlington International Racecourse
Arlington International Racecourse is located in Arlington Heights, Illinois. It is the only horse racing track in the state that is open year-round, and it is also the only track in the United States to host the prestigious Arlington Million. The track is known for its prestigious stakes races, and it also hosts the Breeders’ Cup World Championships every three years.
Hawthorne Race Course
Hawthorne Race Course is located in the village of Stickney, Illinois. It is one of the oldest racetracks in the state, having opened in 1891. Hawthorne Race Course is best known for hosting the Illinois Derby, which is one of the oldest stakes races in the country.
Fairmount Park Racetrack
Fairmount Park Racetrack is located in Collinsville, Illinois. The track is known for hosting the Illinois Derby, as well as the Prairie State Festival, which is an annual meeting for horse racing fans. Fairmount Park is also home to the Fairmount Park Raceway, which is one of the few harness racing tracks in the state.
Balmoral Park
Balmoral Park is located in Crete, Illinois. The track is known for its wide variety of harness racing events, as well as its simulcast wagering. Balmoral Park is also home to the Illinois Harness Horsemen’s Association, which is the largest organization of its kind in the state.
Maywood Park
Maywood Park is located in Melrose Park, Illinois. It is one of the few remaining harness racing tracks in the state, and it is known for its prestigious stakes races, such as the Windy City Pace and the Maywood Derby. Maywood Park also hosts live simulcast wagering.
Quincy Raceways
Quincy Raceways is located in Quincy, Illinois. It is the oldest racetrack in the state, having opened in 1871. The track is known for its wide variety of harness racing events, as well as its simulcast wagering.
Sportsman’s Park
Sportsman’s Park is located in Cicero, Illinois. The track is known for its wide variety of flat racing events, as well as its simulcast wagering. Sportsman’s Park is also home to the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, which is the largest organization of its kind in the state.
Washington Park Racetrack
Washington Park Racetrack is located in Homewood, Illinois. The track is known for its wide variety of flat racing events, as well as its simulcast wagering. Washington Park is also home to the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, which is the largest organization of its kind in the state.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Illinois is home to eight major horse racing tracks. These tracks are known for hosting a wide variety of events, including flat racing, harness racing, and simulcast wagering. Horse racing has been a major part of Illinois’ history, and the state is sure to continue to be a major player in the sport for years to come.