Horse racing is one of the most popular sports to bet on in the world, with millions wagered annually. Therefore, it is little surprise to know that New Jersey has a number of outstanding racetracks in which visitors can attend to see some of the brightest stars on the track.
The tracks in the region will differ greatly on the types of racing that those attending can expect to see, but there is something for everyone in the region.
You can find out more about some of the famous race tracks in New Jersey here and check this link for a special bonus in case you want to wage in NJ races: https://www.twinspires.com/200-signup/
Far Hills
One of the most popular racetracks in the state comes in the form of Far Hills, which boasts one of the most popular social events in the tri-state area. Annually, the Far Hills Races meet is attended by over 75,000 fans, with up to six races offering purses up to $1 million.
Unlike most racing in the United States, Far Hills offers viewers a chance to see some of the finest National Hunt horses in training. The biggest race to be staged at Far Hills every year is the Grand National Hurdle Stakes, which takes inspiration from the iconic Grand National in the United Kingdom.
This race is run over 2 5/8 miles, with 14 hurdles jumped. There have been some standout winners of the race throughout history, with the most prominent coming in the form of Hewick for trainer John Hanlon, who would later land historic success in the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park.
Freehold Raceway
Freehold Raceway is one of the most historic racetracks in the entire United States, as there is no course older.
This track has been staging horse racing since the 1830s, with the Monmouth County Agricultural Society founded in December 1853. Harness racing at the track has been staged since 1854, with Cane Pace also held at the iconic course between 1998 and 2010. It is a regular stop for racing fans, with the Freehold Raceway Mall taking inspiration in its design from the action on the track.
Freehold continues to have a prominent role on the racing calendar, with the Yonkers Trot staged at the track in 2005. Overall, there are two race meets per year at the course, running from January 1 to the end of May, and then between September and December. It is one of two harness tracks located in New Jersey.
Meadowlands
Meadowlands is one of the most visited horse racing tracks in the state, with thoroughbred and harness racing being staged here throughout the year. It is commonly known by those within the local region as the ‘Big M’, and it is a perfect location for family and friends with no shortage of restaurants and bars open all year round.
Meadowlands opened its doors to the public for the first time in September 1976. Thoroughbred racing is staged at the track through the autumn, with the remainder of the season seeing the harness racing takes centre stage. One of the standout races on the schedule comes in the form of the Hambletonian Stakes, which is run by trotting horses aged three. It is the opening leg of the Triple Crown of Harness Racing for Trotters.
A purse of $1 million is made available in this race, with Muscle Hill being one of the most dominant winners of the race in 2009. Another key race to be staged at Meadowlands is the Cane Pace, which was previously the opening leg of the Triple Crown of Harness Racing for Trotters before being replaced by the Hambletonian Stakes.
Monmouth Park
The most famous race track in New Jersey is Monmouth Park. This track was first opened in July 1870, with a number of marquee races staged at the course throughout the season. As well as hosting huge racing action, it has also played host to huge cultural events in the region, such as the Vans Warped Tour.
Eleven graded stakes races for thoroughbreds are staged at Monmouth Park throughout the season, which includes the Haskell Invitational. This race was first run in 1968, and it is a major race for horses aged three that is located in between the end of the Triple Crown and the start of the Breeders’ Cup. The United Nations Stakes is the big event on the calendar for horses on the turf, with this Grade 1 having been staged since 1953.
It secured its spot as one of the biggest events on the calendar in 2007 when Monmouth Park hosted the Breeders’ Cup for the first time. It was a significant event, as it was the first time that three new races were staged on the opening day. Curlin was the big winner at the meet after landing success in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
By Chris Bates
