Laurel Park Racetrack is a thoroughbred horse racing track located in Laurel, Maryland, USA. It first opened in 1911 and has since been a popular destination for horse racing fans. The track is located on the grounds of the Maryland State Fairgrounds and hosts both live and simulcast events. It has a one-mile oval track, as well as a seven-furlong inner turf track. The track also has a grandstand, a clubhouse, and a paddock.
History of Laurel Park Racetrack
Laurel Park Racetrack was originally founded in 1911 and was known as the Laurel Race Course. The track was part of the Maryland Jockey Club and the first president of the club was Alfred G. Vanderbilt, who was also the president of Pimlico Race Course. The track was a popular venue for horse racing enthusiasts and was home to numerous stakes races.
In the early 1960s, the track underwent renovations and was renamed Laurel Park Racetrack. The renovations included the installation of a new clubhouse, grandstand, and paddock. The renovations also included the addition of a seven-furlong inner turf track and the installation of a new one-mile oval track.
Features of Laurel Park Racetrack
Laurel Park Racetrack is home to a variety of features that make it a great destination for horse racing fans.
- Grandstand: The grandstand at Laurel Park Racetrack is an impressive multi-level structure that offers seating for up to 8,000 spectators. The grandstand also has a bar and food court for those looking to enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the races.
- Clubhouse: The clubhouse at Laurel Park Racetrack is a large and luxurious facility with a full-service restaurant, a bar and lounge, and private dining rooms. It also offers views of the racing action from its terrace.
- Paddock: The paddock at Laurel Park Racetrack is a large area where the horses are kept before and after the race. It also offers a great area for spectators to get up close and personal with the horses.
- Track: The track at Laurel Park Racetrack is a one-mile oval with a seven-furlong inner turf track. The track is well-maintained and is home to several prestigious stakes races.
Types of Racing at Laurel Park Racetrack
Laurel Park Racetrack offers both live and simulcast racing. The track hosts a variety of races, including thoroughbred, quarter horse, and harness racing. The track also hosts several prestigious stakes races, such as the Maryland Million Classic and the Maryland Million Turf Sprint.
Live Racing at Laurel Park Racetrack
Live racing at Laurel Park Racetrack typically takes place from April to November. The track hosts a variety of races, including thoroughbred, quarter horse, and harness racing. The track also hosts several prestigious stakes races, such as the Maryland Million Classic and the Maryland Million Turf Sprint.
Live racing at Laurel Park Racetrack typically begins on Saturdays and Sundays and is open to the public. The track also hosts special events, such as the Maryland Million Day, which is held on the first Saturday in October each year.
Simulcast Racing at Laurel Park Racetrack
Simulcast racing at Laurel Park Racetrack typically takes place year-round. The track simulcasts races from tracks across the country, including Churchill Downs, Belmont Park, and Santa Anita Park. Simulcast racing at Laurel Park Racetrack is open to the public and offers an exciting way to watch the races from the comfort of the grandstand.
Admission and Ticket Prices at Laurel Park Racetrack
Admission and ticket prices for live and simulcast racing at Laurel Park Racetrack vary depending on the type of race and seating section. Generally speaking, general admission tickets cost $3, while reserved seating tickets cost between $5 and $30.
Are Fans Allowed at Laurel Park Racetrack?
Yes, fans are allowed at Laurel Park Racetrack. The track is open to the public for both live and simulcast racing.
Live Racing
Live racing at Laurel Park Racetrack is open to the public. Fans are allowed to enter the track and watch the races from the grandstand or the clubhouse.
Simulcast Racing
Simulcast racing at Laurel Park Racetrack is open to the public. Fans are allowed to enter the track and watch the simulcast races from the grandstand or the clubhouse.
Conclusion
Laurel Park Racetrack is a popular destination for horse racing fans. The track offers both live and simulcast racing and is open to the public. Admission and ticket prices vary depending on the type of race and seating section. Fans are welcome to enjoy the races from the grandstand or the clubhouse.