The Hambletonian Society and Harrah’s Hoosier Park have announced the 102nd edition of the $1 million USD Hambletonian will be raced on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2027 at the Anderson, Indiana oval.
The date was selected by The Hambletonian Society and management of the new host track Harrah’s Hoosier Park with the intent to preserve the race’s traditional August date on the Grand Circuit stakes calendar while also properly spacing and maximizing racing opportunities for human and equine competitors. Elimination races, if necessary, will be raced the week prior, on Saturday, Aug. 14.
The Grade 1 Hambletonian and $500,000 USD Hambletonian Oaks will be the primary events on a stakes-laden card that will include many of Hoosier’s established races such as the Caesars Trotting Classic, Hoosier Pacing Derby, Jennas Beach Boy, Nadia Lobell, Vincennes Trot and the Peter Haughton and Jim Doherty Memorials. Hambletonian Day will be the culmination of a week-long Hambletonian Festival of events for fans, bettors and race participants.
“The Hambletonian at Harrah’s Hoosier Park creates an exciting opportunity for both the Hambletonian and harness racing,” said John Campbell, president and CEO of the Hambletonian Society. “Hoosier Park has a strong commitment to the sport and its fans, and we look forward to expanding the exposure and creating additional involvement for all the supporters and participants throughout the Midwest.”
The move to Indiana’s premier racino for the next three years was the result of a collaborative effort involving Harrah’s Hoosier Park, The Hambletonian Society, the Indiana Horse Racing Commission and the Indiana Standardbred Association.
The 2027 Hambletonian will mark the beginning of a three-year run at Harrah’s Hoosier Park, providing the Anderson venue with the opportunity to showcase the sport’s signature event while building on Indiana’s growing prominence in harness racing.
(With files from The Hambletonian Society)