After 171 years of racing history, Freehold Raceway, America’s oldest active racetrack, has officially closed its doors. The track held its final harness race on a misty Saturday afternoon, marking the end of an era in the world of horse racing. Freehold’s closure is part of a larger trend of race track shutdowns across the country, a sign of changing times in the gambling and racing industry.
Freehold Raceway’s Last Day
On December 28, 2024, Freehold Raceway ran its last race at 4:24 p.m. EST. The weather was cold and gloomy, but the crowd, though smaller than it was in its prime, gathered to celebrate the rich history of the track. More than 1,000 fans showed up for this emotional farewell. The final races, totaling 11 events, offered a total of $302,600 in increased purses. The atmosphere was both somber and celebratory, as people reflected on the legacy of this historic venue.
Track announcer Larry Fox tried to keep his emotions in check, but even he couldn’t hide the sadness as the final race concluded. Fans cheered one last time as T’s Raider II, a popular pacer, crossed the finish line. This race, won by a 4-year-old gelding, was the last in a long line of races that made Freehold a special place for both fans and participants.
The History of Freehold Raceway
Freehold Raceway had a long and storied history that began in 1853, eight years before the Civil War. The track was part of the Monmouth County Agricultural Fair and quickly became an important site for harness racing. It became New Jersey’s first pari-mutuel track in 1941 and thrived in the post-war era, when horse racing was one of the few legal forms of gambling on the East Coast.
Over the decades, Freehold survived many challenges, including a fire in 1984 that destroyed its grandstand. However, the introduction of casinos in Atlantic City in 1978 started the decline of Freehold and other racetracks. With more gambling options available and the rise of online betting, attendance at the races dropped significantly. The track’s closure in 2024 is seen as a result of the broader changes in the gambling industry.
The Future of Freehold Raceway
While Freehold Raceway may be closed, there are still lingering questions about the future of the 57-acre property. Local media reports suggest that housing development might be the most likely outcome for the site. There have been efforts by horsemen and racing fans to save the track, but it seems unlikely that they will succeed. The story of Freehold is one of nostalgia and loss, reflecting the struggles of traditional racetracks in the modern gambling world.
In the end, Freehold’s closure represents more than just the end of a track. It’s a symbol of the larger shift in the racing world, as fewer tracks remain open and fewer fans come out to experience the thrill of live horse racing. Freehold will be remembered as an important part of American racing history, but its closure leaves many wondering what the future holds for the sport.
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