Overview of Belmont Park Racetrack
Belmont Park Racetrack was built in 1905 and has been the site of some of the most thrilling horse races in history. The racetrack is the third oldest racetrack in the United States, and it has hosted the Belmont Stakes, the third leg of the Triple Crown, since 1905. Belmont Park has also been home to many of the world’s greatest thoroughbreds, including Secretariat and Man o' War. Fans can enjoy the excitement of live thoroughbred racing year-round and also visit the on-site museum. Among the track’s most notable features are its giant fountain, which shoots water 350 feet into the air, and its giant observation wheel, which boasts stunning views of the surrounding area. Racing seasons at Belmont Park generally last from August through April, with special events taking place year-round.
History of Belmont Park Racetrack
Belmont Park Racetrack was built in 1905 and has been the site of some of the most thrilling horse races in history. The racetrack is the third oldest racetrack in the United States, and it has hosted the Belmont Stakes, the third leg of the Triple Crown, since 1905. Belmont Park has also been home to many of the world’s greatest thoroughbreds, including Secretariat and Man o' War. Throughout its long history, Belmont Park has undergone several renovations. In 1946, a new grandstand was built, and 15 years later, a new clubhouse was constructed. A new paddock and starting gate was added in 1987, and in 2001, a new grandstand was completed. Belmont Park has also been the site of many important historical events. It was the first racetrack to be integrated when jockey William Powell rode Native Parr to victory in 1946. It is also the place where Dark Star set a new world record in 1973 by running 1:33. The track has also been visited by many famous figures, including Babe Ruth, who famously built a racing stable in the 1930s.
Famous Horse Races Held at Belmont Park
Belmont Park has been the site of many essential horse races throughout its long history. The most famous of these is the Belmont Stakes, which has been held at the racetrack since 1905. The Belmont Stakes is the third and final leg of the famous Triple Crown. The Travers Stakes is the oldest stakes race in America and has been held at Belmont Park since 1905. The Joe Hirsch Turf Festival has been held at Belmont Park since 1943. The Suburban Handicap is one of the longest-running stakes races in America and has been held at Belmont Park since 1932. The Colonial Turf Cup has been held at Belmont Park since 1934. The Carter Handicap has been held at Belmont Park since 1935.
Major Attractions at Belmont Park
- Giant Fountain: The Giant Fountain is Belmont Park’s most notable and iconic feature. This impressive fountain shoots water 350 feet into the air and is visible from miles away.
- Giant Observation Wheel: The Giant Observation Wheel is another Belmont Park landmark. This gigantic ferris wheel offers passengers amazing views of the surrounding area, including Long Island Sound and the New York Harbor.
- On-site Museum: Belmont Park Racetrack also houses an on-site museum. This museum is home to many artifacts that document the racetrack’s long and fascinating history.
- Trackside Buffet: Trackside Buffet is another popular attraction at Belmont Park. This is the perfect place for people of all ages to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner while watching the races.
Tips for Visiting Belmont Park
- Come Early: Like most racetracks, Belmont Park fills up quickly on racing days. If you want to get a good spot on the grandstand, you should plan to arrive at least a few hours before the first race.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Even if you’re only going to be watching the races from the sidelines, you should wear comfortable shoes. The infield is often muddy, and you don’t want to spend hours in uncomfortable shoes.
- Dress Warmly: While Belmont Park isn’t as cold as some other places in New York, it isn’t always warm, either. You should dress warmly, especially if you plan to be in the infield.
- Bring Cash: Most of the concessions at Belmont Park accept credit cards, but you should bring cash just in case.
Popular Events at Belmont Park
- Spring/Summer: Spring and summer are the two busiest seasons at Belmont Park. Since thoroughbred racing is year-round, there’s always something happening at the track, even during the off-season.
- Big Apple Racing Festival: The Big Apple Racing Festival is one of the most popular events of the spring and summer at Belmont Park. This annual event features a live concert, an expo, and racing at the track.
- Travers Stakes: The Travers Stakes is the oldest stakes race in America. This annual event takes place in August and is one of the most important thoroughbred races of the year.
- Belmont Park Fall/Winter: Belmont Park is busiest in the fall and winter months. The fall season is jam-packed with events, including the Long Island Boat Show and the New York Boat Show. The winter season is also busy, due to the popularity of the Holiday Lights Spectacular.
