Philadelphia Park Racetrack
Philadelphia Park Racetrack is a thoroughbred racing facility in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. It has two tracks that feature year-round horseracing.
Philadelphia Park Racetrack is the proud home of Pennsylvania's premier thoroughbred race, the Pennsylvania Derby. Held on Labor Day, the Pennsylvania Derby is a nine-furlong race for three year olds.
The other events it hosts annually include the Cotillion Handicap, the Pennsylvania Oaks, the Larry R. Riviello President’s Cup, the My Juliet, the Gallant Bob Handicap and the Steve Van Buren Handicap.
Philadelphia Park Racetrack is the home of 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner Smarty Jones. His victories have generated renewed interest for this track.
Philadelphia Park Racetrack Facts
- Main Track: one mile, oval
- Turf Course: seven furlongs, oval
- Distance from last turn to finish line: 974 feet
History of Philadelphia Park Racetrack
1974 - In November, Philadelphia Park Racetrack opened under its original name Keystone.
1984 - The track was purchased by ITB for $40 million. It got its new name, a new turf course, and a new way to wager called Phonebet.
1990 - In December, Greenwood Racing became the track’s new owner. Full card simulcasting was added. Five off-track locations called Turf Clubs were also added.
1999 - The paddock at Philadelphia Park Racetrack was expanded and refurbished while the Grandstand’s exterior was repainted. A modern Turf Club was unveiled, complete with plush simulcast theaters, a brand new dining room, and sports bar, a horsemen's lounge, and a grand entrance.
