For nearly a century, the thunder of hooves has echoed across the one-mile dirt oval at a cherished institution in Collinsville, Illinois. This is the story of Fairmount Park Horse Racing, a venue that has weathered immense change to remain a pillar of the sport in the Midwest. From its historic opening in 1925 to its modern identity, the track has provided unforgettable moments for generations of racing fans, holding its ground as the only horse racing venue in Illinois outside of the Chicago metropolitan area. For a deeper dive into other racing venues, exploring a guide on states with horse racing can provide a broader context.
The Rich History of a Midwest Racing Icon
Fairmount Park opened its gates in 1925, quickly establishing itself as a premier destination for both Thoroughbred flat racing and, for a time, Standardbred harness racing. During its early decades, it was a bustling hub of activity, hosting prestigious events like the Fairmont Derby and drawing significant crowds from across the region. The track’s design, a classic one-mile dirt oval with chutes for varied race lengths, became the stage for countless thrilling contests of speed and endurance.
Ownership of the park has changed hands over the years, with notable periods under the Ogden Corporation, which acquired it in 1969, and later, Bill Stiritz of Ralston Purina fame, who took over in 2000. Through these transitions, Fairmount Park maintained its identity as a beloved local landmark. At its peak in the late 1990s, the track hosted an astonishing 232 days of live racing annually. However, the rise of riverboat casinos in the St. Louis area presented significant economic challenges, leading to a reduction in live racing days as the sport’s landscape evolved.
A New Era: Reinvention and Modernization
Recognizing the need to adapt to a new entertainment climate, the historic track has undergone a significant transformation. For a period, it operated under the name FanDuel Sportsbook and Racing, a partnership that introduced a modern sportsbook and new betting technologies to the venue. This collaboration was a strategic move to blend the classic thrill of horse racing with the burgeoning world of sports betting.
In 2024, the track entered its latest chapter with the acquisition by Accel Entertainment, a prominent gaming operator. This new ownership restored the cherished “Fairmount Park” name and embarked on an ambitious plan to enhance the facility. A key part of this revitalization is the conversion of the grandstand into a “racino,” integrating nearly 300 state-of-the-art slot machines and electronic table games. This hybrid model aims to create a comprehensive entertainment destination, appealing to both long-time racing aficionados and a new generation of casino-goers.
Experiencing Race Day at Fairmount Park
A day at Fairmount Park is an immersive experience. The energy is palpable, from the paddock where horses are paraded before each race to the grandstand where cheers erupt as the gates fly open. The track primarily hosts live Thoroughbred flat racing, with events typically scheduled on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Similar energy can be found at other important tracks, and for those interested in the scene across the river, reading about horse racing in st louis offers a glimpse into the broader regional passion for the sport.
Beyond the track, the revitalized venue offers a host of amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience. Dining options range from casual trackside fare to more robust restaurant offerings, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate. The addition of the casino floor provides continuous entertainment between races, while simulcast wagering allows patrons to bet on races from other premier tracks across the country.
According to equine behaviorist Dr. Sarah Miller, “A race track is a sensory symphony for a horse. The crowd, the calls, the energy—it all feeds into their competitive spirit. A well-managed track like Fairmount creates an environment where these athletes can truly perform at their peak.”
A Pillar of Illinois Horse Racing
In a state where horse racing has faced numerous challenges, Fairmount Park’s endurance is a testament to its importance. It stands as one of only two active horse racing venues in Illinois and holds the unique distinction of being the sole track outside the Chicagoland area. This makes it an essential hub for owners, trainers, jockeys, and fans throughout the central and southern parts of the state. Those who follow the sport closely might also be interested in the various horse racing illinois tracks that have contributed to the state’s equestrian history. The track’s continued operation supports a significant ecosystem within the state’s agricultural and sporting economies.
The recent investments and upgrades, including the new casino and loyalty programs that reward both racing and slot play, signal a strong commitment to a sustainable future. By creating a multifaceted entertainment destination, the new ownership aims to build a robust business model that honors the track’s storied past while ensuring its viability for decades to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Fairmount Park still open for horse racing?
Yes, Fairmount Park continues to host live Thoroughbred horse racing. Under new ownership, it has been revitalized with additional entertainment options, but the thrill of live racing remains at its core.
What is Fairmount Park called now?
After a period of being known as FanDuel Sportsbook and Racing, the track’s name was restored to Fairmount Park in 2024. It is now officially called Fairmount Park Casino & Racing to reflect its expanded offerings.
Can you bet on sports at Fairmount Park?
Yes, in addition to live and simulcast horse race wagering, the facility includes a modern sportsbook where patrons can place bets on a wide variety of other sporting events.
Where is Fairmount Park located?
Fairmount Park is located in Collinsville, Illinois, which is part of the greater St. Louis metropolitan area, making it easily accessible to fans from both Illinois and Missouri.
What is the history of Fairmount Park horse racing?
Fairmount Park has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1925. For nearly a century, it has been a key venue for Thoroughbred racing in the Midwest, weathering economic shifts and evolving to remain a cornerstone of the sport in Illinois.
The Next Hundred Years
Fairmount Park stands as a proud symbol of resilience and adaptation. It has successfully navigated nearly a century of change by honoring its deep roots in the sport of kings while embracing a future that offers a broader entertainment appeal. The synthesis of thrilling live horse racing with the excitement of a modern casino ensures that the legacy of Fairmount Park horse racing will continue to charge forward, providing unforgettable experiences for a whole new generation of fans.
