Los Angeles: A City With A Long History Of Horse Racing
So, when you think of Los Angeles, horse racing is definitely not the first thing that comes to mind. You probably think of Hollywood and sun-soaked beaches where you enjoy a relaxing day out.
But what about horses? Do you know that LA actually has a long history with these incredible animals?
Yes, we are talking about a century-old history that is now well embedded into the culture and identity of the city. This is good news for all horse-racing fans. Now, you can escape the chaos, traffic jams, and noisy clubs, and go for an adrenaline-fueled horse-racing trip.
But before you pack your bags and go, let’s learn more about Los Angeles and its history with horse racing, the current state of the sport, and what the best horse racing tracks are that every fan must visit.
How Did It All Start?
Not many people know that LA was actually quite a big player in horse racing, even before Hollywood started making waves. We are talking about the late 19th and early 20th century when horse racing was quite popular with the locals.
It is safe to say that the city has some of the most iconic racetracks in the country that survived for hundreds of years.
The First Traces of Horse Racing in LA
There is no doubt that Agricultural Park (now known as Exposition Park) was the first place where the city started organizing horse races. This venue opened its doors in the late 1870s, and back then, horse racing wasn’t just a sport, it was a community event where thousands of people came to socialize and watch some adrenaline-filled races.
Horse racing betting was also quite popular, but back then, they didn’t have online betting obviously, and all the action happened on the track.
Santa Anita Park
Even though Exposition Park was the place that introduced horse racing to the locals, it was Santa Anita Park that was responsible for carrying the sport into the future. This incredible venue opened its doors in 1934 in Arcadia, just northeast of LA.
It quickly became one of the most popular racetracks in the region, thanks to its state-of-the-art facilities and stunning views of San Gabriel Mountains.
We are talking about a racetrack that is not just about the races but also about the experience.
As the popularity of the racetrack grew, so did the number of Grade 1 thoroughbred races. Santa Anita Derby now hosts quite popular horse-racing events like the Santa Anita Handicap and has been home to the Breeders’ Cup multiple times.
If you want to know more about this year’s Breeders’ Cup entries and top horses, you should check out TwinSpires.
Santa Anita hosted the first-ever $100,000 handicap race, the Santa Anita Handicap (also known as “The Big ’Cap”), which drew huge crowds and high-profile names. Even today, this race remains a major event on the racing calendar.
The Golden Age of Horse Racing in L.A.
The 1930s and 1940s are often considered the golden age of horse racing in Los Angeles. During this time, the city was a hotbed for the sport, attracting everyone from everyday folks to Hollywood elites. Celebrities like Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, and even Walt Disney were known to frequent the tracks, adding a touch of glamour to an already thrilling sport.
Hollywood Park: Where Stars and Horses Collide
Speaking of Hollywood, we can’t ignore Hollywood Park. Opened in 1938, this track was a glitzy addition to the L.A. racing scene. Founded by a group of movie industry moguls, including Jack Warner and Samuel Goldwyn, Hollywood Park was designed to be a playground for the rich and famous. And it delivered.
This track was known for its luxurious amenities, including a posh Turf Club where the who’s who of Hollywood could be seen. But it wasn’t just about the glitz and glam; Hollywood Park also became known for its competitive racing events, including the prestigious Hollywood Gold Cup.
Betting and Economic Impact
Let’s talk numbers for a second. During the peak of horseracing’s popularity in the mid-20th century, betting on races was big business. In 1950, horse racing bets in California reached a staggering $473 million (equivalent to around $5.3 billion today). This influx of money wasn’t just a win for gamblers; it also provided a significant boost to the local economy.
The Decline and Revival
But like all good things, the golden age of horse racing in L.A. eventually faded. The rise of television, coupled with the growing popularity of other sports, led to a decline in attendance. Hollywood Park, once the epitome of racing glamour, closed its doors in 2013, marking the end of an era.
However, horse racing isn’t quite ready to ride off into the sunset. Santa Anita Park continues to be a beacon for horse racing fans, hosting major events like the Breeders' Cup. The sport has seen a resurgence in recent years, with new fans discovering the excitement of a day at the races.
Modern-Day Racing in Los Angeles
While the heyday of Los Angeles horseracing might be behind us, the sport is far from dead. Santa Anita Park remains a cornerstone of the racing world, drawing fans from all over the globe. The track has undergone several renovations to modernize its facilities, ensuring it remains a top-tier venue for both fans and competitors.