Fairmount Park is an iconic horse racing facility located in Collinsville, Illinois. The racetrack has been a popular destination for horse racing fans since the 1930s and has hosted some of the most prestigious horse races in the United States. Horse racing at Fairmount Park offers a unique experience for both experienced and new horse racing fans. In this article, we will explore the history of horse racing at Fairmount Park, the types of races held at the track, and what visitors can expect upon visiting the facility.
History of Horse Racing at Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park has a long and storied history in the world of horse racing. The racetrack was originally opened in 1928 and has since hosted some of the most prestigious horse races in the United States. The track has seen a variety of different races over the years, from harness racing to thoroughbred racing.
The track is well known for hosting the Illinois Derby, a Grade III race for three-year-olds. The race was first held in 1929 and has been won by some of the greatest horses in the sport, such as Triple Crown winner Whirlaway and Hall of Fame inductee Smarty Jones.
In addition to the Illinois Derby, Fairmount Park has also hosted a variety of other races throughout the years, including the Grade III Arlington Classic, the Grade III Washington Park Handicap, and the Grade III Stephen Foster Handicap.
Types of Races at Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park hosts a variety of different horse races throughout the year.
Thoroughbred Racing
The majority of the races at Fairmount Park are thoroughbred races. These races typically involve three-year-old or older horses and feature some of the top thoroughbreds in the sport. The track typically hosts two to three thoroughbred races per day, and the purses for these races can range from $50,000 to $100,000.
Harness Racing
Fairmount Park also hosts harness races throughout the year. These races typically involve two-year-old horses and feature some of the top harness horses in the sport. The purses for these races typically range from $25,000 to $50,000.
Quarter Horse Racing
The track also hosts quarter horse races throughout the year. These races typically involve two-year-old horses and feature some of the top quarter horses in the sport. The purses for these races typically range from $10,000 to $20,000.
What to Expect When Visiting Fairmount Park
Visitors to Fairmount Park can expect a unique experience. The track is one of the oldest in the country and features a variety of amenities and features.
Track Level Seating
The track features a variety of track level seating, ranging from grandstand seating to box seating. Track level seating is the perfect way to experience the races up close and personal.
Dining and Food Options
Fairmount Park also offers a variety of dining and food options. The track features a full-service restaurant and bar, as well as a variety of concession stands. There are also a variety of food vendors located around the track.
Horse Racing Simulators
Fairmount Park also offers a variety of horse racing simulators. These simulators allow visitors to experience the thrill of horse racing without actually being at the track.
Events and Promotions
Fairmount Park offers a variety of events and promotions throughout the year. These events and promotions range from live music and entertainment to special giveaways and promotions.
Is There Horse Racing at Fairmount Park?
The answer is yes! Fairmount Park is an iconic horse racing facility located in Collinsville, Illinois. The racetrack has been a popular destination for horse racing fans since the 1930s and has hosted some of the most prestigious horse races in the United States. Horse racing at Fairmount Park offers a unique experience for both experienced and new horse racing fans.
The track features a variety of thoroughbred, harness, and quarter horse races throughout the year. Visitors can also expect a variety of amenities and features, such as track level seating, dining and food options, horse racing simulators, and events and promotions.
Conclusion
Horse racing is an iconic sport that has been around for centuries. Fairmount Park is one of the oldest and most prestigious racetracks in the United States and has hosted some of the greatest horses in the sport. The track offers a variety of thoroughbred, harness, and quarter horse races throughout the year, as well as a variety of amenities and features.
Whether you are a seasoned horse racing fan or a newcomer to the sport, Fairmount Park is the perfect place to experience the thrill of horse racing.