Horse racing is an exciting sport that has been around for centuries. It dates back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who used it as a form of entertainment. In the United States, horse racing is still a popular activity, especially in the Midwest. Missouri is no exception, as the state has an active racing industry. But is there horse racing in Missouri? Let’s take a closer look.
Horse Racing Tracks in Missouri
When it comes to horse racing in Missouri, there are several tracks that offer live racing. The most notable tracks are the St. Louis Fairgrounds, the American Royal in Kansas City, and the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. All of these tracks feature thoroughbred racing, which is the most popular type of horse racing in the United States.
The St. Louis Fairgrounds is the oldest track in the state, having been in operation since 1881. It features a one-mile dirt track, with races held on Saturday and Sunday.
The American Royal, located in Kansas City, offers a variety of races throughout the year, including stakes races and horse shows. The track features a one-mile dirt track and a seven-furlong turf track.
The Missouri State Fair is held in Sedalia and is the largest horse racing event in the state. The fair features seven days of racing, with the highlight being the Missouri State Fair Derby.
Types of Horse Racing in Missouri
In addition to the live racing offered at the tracks, there are also several types of horse racing available in Missouri. These include harness racing, quarter horse racing, and Arabian racing.
Harness racing is a form of horse racing in which the horses are driven by a driver in a two-wheeled cart. This type of racing is popular in the Midwest and is popular in Missouri.
Quarter horse racing is a type of horse racing in which the horses race over a quarter-mile track. This type of racing is popular in the western United States, but is also popular in Missouri.
Arabian racing is a type of horse racing that is popular in the Middle East and North Africa. It is a very competitive type of racing and is becoming increasingly popular in Missouri.
Off-Track Betting in Missouri
In addition to live racing, Missouri also offers off-track betting. Off-track betting (OTB) is a form of wagering on horse races that takes place at a betting facility away from the racetrack. It allows people to bet on races across the country, as well as in Missouri.
Off-track betting is legal in Missouri and there are several OTB facilities located throughout the state. These facilities offer simulcast racing, which allows people to watch and bet on races from around the country.
Online Betting in Missouri
In addition to OTB facilities, there is also online betting in Missouri. Online betting is legal in the state and there are several websites that offer betting on horse races. Most of these sites offer simulcast racing and allow people to bet on races from around the country.
However, it is important to note that not all of these sites are legal in Missouri. It is important to check the laws in your state before using an online betting site.
Horse Racing Events in Missouri
In addition to live racing, there are also several horse racing events held in Missouri throughout the year. These events include the Missouri State Fair, the St. Louis Fairgrounds, the American Royal, and the Thoroughbred Racing Association of America (TRA).
The Missouri State Fair is held annually in Sedalia and features seven days of racing. It is one of the biggest horse racing events in the state and is a great way to experience the excitement of horse racing.
The St. Louis Fairgrounds offers live racing on Saturdays and Sundays. It is one of the oldest tracks in the state and is a great way to experience the thrills of horse racing.
The American Royal is held annually in Kansas City and features a variety of races throughout the year, including stakes races and horse shows.
The Thoroughbred Racing Association of America (TRA) is an organization that promotes and regulates the sport of Thoroughbred racing in the United States. It hosts several horse racing events throughout the year, including the Preakness Stakes and the Breeders’ Cup.
Horse Racing Organizations in Missouri
In addition to the horse racing events, there are also several organizations that promote horse racing in Missouri. These organizations include the Missouri Horse Racing Commission (MHRC), the Missouri Horsemen’s Association (MHA), and the Missouri Horse Breeders Association (MHBA).
The MHRC is responsible for regulating the sport of horse racing in the state. It works to ensure that all horse racing events are conducted safely and ethically.
The MHA is an organization that works to promote the interests of horse owners and trainers in the state. It works to ensure that horse owners and trainers are treated fairly and that the sport of horse racing is conducted in a safe and responsible manner.
The MHBA is an organization that works to promote the interests of horse breeders in the state. It works to ensure that horse breeders are treated fairly and that the sport of horse racing is conducted in a safe and responsible manner.
Conclusion
So, is there horse racing in Missouri? The answer is yes. Missouri has a long history of horse racing and there are several tracks and horse racing events held throughout the state. There is also off-track betting, online betting, and several organizations that promote and regulate horse racing in the state. So, if you’re looking for a thrilling and exciting activity, consider horse racing in Missouri.