As Historic Track embarks on its 101st anniversary of Grand Circuit Racing, it is also poised to complete the construction of a new 19-stall 'shed row' barn to replace the 100-year-old structure which was recently razed
on a lot adjacent to the BOCES barn.
During 2010, the building site was excavated and a concrete foundation and retaining wall was poured. This process led to an extensive and unforeseen, but necessary drainage remediation project. This in turn led to a budget overrun and construction delays which, however, permanently solved a decades-long flooding problem that will benefit both our present and future tenants.
A membership drive is currently underway to help defray some of these cumbersome building costs. Those that are already members are asked to consider upgrading their membership level or buying a gift membership for a friend via the link below.
This racing season also marks Goshen’s 50th year of Matinee Racing, allowing Historic Track to showcase 'sport for sport’s sake.' In addition, the track’s status as a National Historic Landmark continues to attract tourists and visitors from all over the world.
Having been founded in 1838, Goshen Historic Track is the world’s oldest continuously operating harness racing facility. Most of the legends of harness racing have graced Historic Track with their presence. From Hambletonian and Greyhound to Deweycheatumnhowe, the historical roots of harness racing have been decisively planted in our soil.
Goshen Historic Track is an incorporated non-profit, therefore without the revenues of pari-mutuel wagering or VLTs, it relies on the generosity of those in the industry that appreciate the importance of the celebrated venue. The admission revenues taken in from racing just seven days each year cannot begin to offset the stakes racing purse structure and the considerable expense of maintaining a year-round training facility. Although it shares the same hallowed ground and a common mission, it is a financially separate entity from the Harness Racing Museum and Hall of Fame.
Historic Track’s existence would not be possible without contributions from people throughout the industry. Membership plans start at just $35 per family. All first-time and renewing members will receive a beautiful full-colour bumper sticker depicting the start of the Hall of Fame Trot. Surf to goshenhistorictrack.com/join.html for complete information.
(Historic Track)