The New Jersey Sire Stakes Board of Trustees issued a statement on Wednesday, Oct. 8 advocating for the Hambletonian events to remain at Meadowlands Racetrack in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Last month, The Hambletonian Society announced it has opened bidding to racetracks to host the Hambletonian Stakes, beginning with the 2027 edition. The Society, which oversees the event's format, venues and host-track agreements, noted that, under the organization's by-laws, the Hambletonian is opened annually to prospective host-track bids unless already secured under a multi-year contract. The Meadowlands, which has hosted the Hambletonian for the last 44 years, is contracted to host through 2026; however, the track did not exercise its exclusive right of renewal, which expired on Sept. 1, 2025. All tracks, including the existing host track, are able to bid if Society by-law requirements are met. 

The statement from the New Jersey Sire Stakes Board of Trustees appears below.

New Jersey Sire Stakes Board of Trustees Asks to Keep Hambletonian Events in New Jersey

"The Hambletonian and the Hambletonian Oaks through their history have demonstrated clearly and loudly the spirit of harness racing, an industry that New Jersey has proudly supported.

"Continuing to hold these events at The Meadowlands is important to many fans and participants, and to the Standardbred industry in general. The Meadowlands Racetrack has been the home of the Hambletonian events since 1981 and is known for its excellent facilities, vibrant atmosphere and its ability to be an excellent host track. The rich history and tradition associated with the Hambletonian races have helped make The Meadowlands a special place for harness racing enthusiasts.

"The New Jersey Sire Stakes Board of Trustees is deeply disappointed that the Hambletonian Society is even considering the possibility of moving the Hambletonian to another state or to a province in Canada.

"Over the years, we have worked tirelessly with The Meadowlands to benefit horse racing in New Jersey. Our collaborative efforts have strengthened the sport. We have brought significant economic benefits to the state. The thought of the Hambletonian being relocated from this cherished venue is like the thought of moving the New Years’ Eve countdown from Times Square in New York City. It would be not only  disheartening for fans and participants alike, but also the move will negatively affect the experience and 
the sense of community that has been built around the event for many years. 

"Let’s remember that Jeff Gural [Chairman & CEO of Meadowlands Racetrack] and his team at The Meadowlands stepped up more than 15 years ago to save this world renowned racetrack from closure and have continually supported the track and the industry, which includes the owners, the drivers, the trainers, the grooms, the farriers and the countless others who derive their income and support for their families from The Meadowlands.

"Moreover, we believe that moving this race from the Meadowlands will have a significant adverse economic impact on New Jersey which will negate the positive message we have been sending to the public as well as to our legislators and elected leaders.

"The New Jersey Sire Stakes Board of Trustees strongly recommends that the Hambletonian Society reconsider the idea of moving the Hambletonian events and work together toward our vision for the future of horse racing in New Jersey by keeping this historic and revered race at The Meadowlands."

(With files from New Jersey Sire Stakes/New Jersey Department of Agriculture)