Get to Know New York City’s Major Horse Racing Events
New York is known for much more than just big skyscrapers, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Times Square. Did you know that New York also has a rich horse racing culture?
After all, New York has the Belmont Stakes, which most people consider the most difficult and rewarding race in the Triple Crown championship. This is where the Triple Crown winner enters the history books.
So, if you are going to New York City, and you happen to be a horse racing enthusiast, good news! There is a local horse racing track with plenty of action and a few world-class racecourses nearby.
But let’s find out more about New York’s major horse racing events. After all, these events grab the attention of thousands of people, which means traveling and organizing a trip to watch the races requires some preparation.
Without further ado, let’s jump on which New York horse racing events you wouldn’t want to miss.
Aqueduct Racetrack and the Cigar Mile
Aqueduct Racetrack, nestled in South Ozone Park, Queens, New York City is home to the exhilarating Cigar Mile, a Grade I race that attracts top sprinters competing over one mile.
Named after the legendary racehorse Cigar, this event embodies speed, skill, and the spirit of competition. Did you know? Aqueduct Racetrack’s winter meet features a diverse range of races, from stakes events to claiming races, showcasing the depth and talent of thoroughbred racing.
Also, the Aqueduct Racetrack has quite a long history dating back to 1894. Okay, it might not be as big as the Kentucky Derby (1874), but still enough to establish a hard presence of horse racing as a sport among the people from New York.
We know that most of the attention will be on the Kentucky Derby final odds, but if you want something to fuel your passion during winter, then the Cigar Mile is just for you.
- Legacy of Excellence: Cigar, a two-time Horse of the Year, captured the hearts of fans with his remarkable winning streak and indomitable spirit.
- Memorable Performance: In 2020, Knicks Go set a new track record in the Cigar Mile, stamping his authority as one of the premier sprinters in the sport.
The Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park
Now we move to Belmont Stakes. Okay, we know that this track might not be in New York City, but if you are already in New York, you must visit Belmont Park, particularly Belmont Stakes.
Belmont Stakes, a highlight of New York’s racing calendar. Held at Belmont Park in Elmont, this event is the third and final leg of the Triple Crown, attracting top-class Thoroughbreds and passionate spectators alike.
Did you know? Belmont Park’s track is nicknamed “Big Sandy” due to its size and unique composition, providing a challenging yet thrilling experience for horses and jockeys. Additionally, the Belmont Stakes is also known as the “The Test of the Champion” just because it is the final leg of the Triple Crown and it is also a very demanding course being 1.5 miles long.
- Notable Fact: The Belmont Stakes boasts a purse of over $1 million, making it one of the richest races in North America.
- Historical Highlight: Secretariat’s record-breaking victory in the 1973 Belmont Stakes, where he clinched the Triple Crown with a breathtaking 31-length lead, remains etched in racing lore.
The Travers Stakes at Saratoga Race Course
Our next stop is the Travers Stakes, sometimes known as the “Midsummer Derby,” which takes place at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York. This ancient event, which dates back to 1822, when horses raced unofficial on fairs, and later was transformed into Saratoga Race Course in 1863 which now gathers outstanding three-year-olds who compete for glory across a 1 1/4-mile course.
- Notable Moment: In 2015, American Pharoah, the Triple Crown champion, made a historic appearance at Saratoga and took part in a ceremonial gallop, enthralling fans and adding to the event’s attractiveness.
- Trivia Time: The Travers Stakes trophy, known as the Man o’ War Cup, honors the renowned thoroughbred Man o’ War, a powerful force in American racing history.
Final Words
New York has a couple of world-class racecourses with Aqueduct Racetrack taking a center spot in New York City. Throughout the year there are many horse racing events, and some of the biggest ones that we covered in this article attract thousands of horse racing fans from all over the world.
So, if you are planning a trip to New York, make sure you book your horse racing tickets in advance (they sell out quickly), go for accommodation near the racecourse, and while you are there, it doesn’t hurt to visit some of the local tourist attractions.
After all, you might win some money at the horse race and go on a free shopping spree, who knows? One thing is for sure, if you are a fan of the sport, you’ll have a blast vesting any of these racecourses.
