Horse racing is a sporting event that is globally enjoyed and has fans from every corner of the world attending the big races. While there are many horse racing tracks, Northern California’s Golden Gate Fields Racetrack has been running for 82 years! But sadly, your excitement to visit this decades-old racetrack may have to “hold its horses” as the racetrack may soon shut its gates.
California’s 82-YO Golden Gate Fields Horse Racetrack To Shut Down
The San Francisco Bay area horse track, Golden Gate Fields, will close forever after its last race this year. The Stronach Group, the track’s owner, announced on July 16 that it will concentrate on racing at Santa Anita. They will shift their focus to training at San Luis Rey Downs in Southern California, as per Hindustan Times reports.
As per reports, once the Golden Gate Fields meet concludes, The Stronach Group plans to transfer horses from the Bay Area to Arcadia. Their objective is to expand field sizes and introduce a fourth day of racing each week at Santa Anita, starting in January.
The Stronach Group bought the track in 2011. Golden Gate Fields, situated along the shore of the San Francisco Bay between Albany and Berkeley, opened in 1941. During World War II, the US Navy took control of the property to store landing craft for the Pacific theatre. After the war, racing resumed at the site reported Hindustan Times.
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The closure of the racetrack may impose serious repercussions on the staff of the racetrack and the company. With many standing at risk to lose their jobs with the closure of the racetrack, the employees may soon be facing the grim reality of joblessness.
8 Decades Old Horse Racetrack To Shut Down Post-Final Race
The news of the closure has brought mixed reactions with horse race fanatics and animal rights activists expressing concern. And rightfully so, the decision to shut down the racetrack not only affects the staff but the animals as well.
As per reports by ESPN, this year, eight horses died at the Golden Gate Fields track. The ownership claims that horse fatalities in California have decreased by over 50% in the past five years. They state that California is now one of the safest states for thoroughbred racing.
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The news has upset many horse race fans and even those animal lovers who just enjoyed watching the sport. What do you think about this decision?
Let us know in the comments.
Cover image courtesy: Golden Gate Fields’ Twitter