Indiana Governor Mike Braun, in partnership with the Indiana Horse Racing Commission and the Indiana Standardbred Association, announced on Thursday, Feb. 19 interest in hosting the Hambletonian in Anderson for a three-year commitment.
Long regarded as the Super Bowl of harness racing, the Hambletonian has been held in New Jersey for decades. With the Hambletonian Society having opened bidding to racetracks to host the prestigious stakes event beginning with the 2027 edition, Indiana representatives are making a clear statement that they are ready to lead.
“Indiana has proven time and again that when it comes to major national events, we don’t just compete, we set the standard,” said Governor Braun. “Just as we’ve made clear that Indiana is ready to host world-class professional sports, we are equally prepared to welcome one of the most iconic events in international horse racing. Just like our great business climate that values stability, partnership and growth, we also are known across the country with our great standard in horse racing and breeding programs.”
Harrah’s Hoosier Park, recognized nationally for its racing surface, infrastructure and commitment to horse racing, stands ready to showcase Indiana’s strength as a premier racing destination. Racetrack representatives say the event would draw tens of thousands of visitors, generate significant tourism activity and shine a national and international spotlight on Indiana’s agribusiness and equine industries.
“Caesars and Harrah’s Hoosier Park are very interested in putting forward a committed effort to showcase Indiana, the track and the outstanding horsemen who make this industry thrive,” said Tom Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment. “The Hambletonian is a uniquely American race and if given an opportunity, we would love to bring it to Hoosier Park. Caesars is prepared to invest to help deliver a world-class event that drives tourism, supports the local economy and elevates Indiana’s profile on the global racing stage.”
The Indiana Standardbred Association emphasized that the opportunity aligns with Indiana’s long-standing leadership in harness racing, workforce development and rural economic vitality.
“This is exactly the type of opportunity that rewards Indiana’s decades-long commitment to horse racing and agribusiness,” said Mike Smith, Executive Director of the Indiana Horse Racing Commission. “Hosting the Hambletonian would not only honour the sport’s tradition but secure its future by introducing it to new audiences in a state that understands how to do racing right.”
State and local partners, along with the Indiana Standardbred Association, say they will continue working to advance Indiana’s proposal as the Hambletonian Society considers the next chapter for this historic event.
(With files from Indiana Horse Racing Commission)