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Freehold Raceway, the oldest horse racing venue in the U.S., will cease operations on December 28. This closure marks the end of a nearly 200-year legacy. Located in central New Jersey, the track has been a cornerstone of harness racing since its establishment in the 1830s.
Track officials announced the decision, citing insurmountable operational difficulties. “This was an extremely difficult decision, especially given the historical importance of Freehold Raceway to the local community and the New Jersey horse racing industry,” stated Howard Bruno, general manager of Freehold Raceway. He added, “Unfortunately, the operations of the racetrack cannot continue under existing conditions, and we do not see a plausible way forward.”
Freehold Raceway has been integral to New Jersey’s horse racing heritage. Established with the help of the Monmouth County Agricultural Society, it became a key venue for harness racing enthusiasts in the mid-19th century.
Over the decades, Freehold Raceway encountered numerous challenges. A significant fire in 1984 destroyed the main building, forcing operations to continue in temporary tents for two years until a new facility was completed in 1986. In 1998, the venue was acquired by a joint venture between Penn National Gaming and Greenwood Racing, which also operates Parx Casino and Racing in Pennsylvania.
The closure signifies the third major horse racing venue to shut down in New Jersey since 2001. Garden State Park in Cherry Hill closed its doors in 2001 after 58 years of operation, while Atlantic City Race Course ended its racing schedule in January 2016.
Bruno expressed heartfelt appreciation for the community’s unwavering support over the years. “We are incredibly thankful for our dedicated employees, horsemen, and fan base for their support and patronage for so many years,” he remarked.
The last day of live racing and simulcast operations at Freehold Raceway is set for December 28.