Thunder of hooves. The roar of the crowd. This is Meadowlands Racetrack. The Big M. Feel the energy.
Meadowlands Racetrack opened in 1976. Its first harness race thrilled 42133 spectators. A year later thoroughbred racing began. The track quickly became a North American harness racing staple. Its unique design included a lake shaped like New Jersey. It was a bold statement.
The track’s memorable slogans include “Racing with the Moon” and “It’s All About Being Here – The Meadowlands”. Dave Johnson’s iconic “and down the stretch they come” originated here. He announced the track’s first thoroughbred races.
The Meadowlands hosted the Hambletonian Stakes since 1981. This is the first leg of the Trotting Triple Crown. The Cane Pace another major race joined the lineup in 2015. It is the first leg of the Pacing Triple Crown. Both races boosted Meadowlands’ fame.
John Campbell a legendary driver dominated harness racing for years. He won six Hambletonian Stakes. His victories with Mack Lobell were unforgettable. Mack Lobell a remarkable horse also left its mark on Meadowlands’ history.
The track also held memorable boxing events. In 1982 a record 52794 people attended a simulcast of the Holmes-Cooney fight. Simulcasting however was short lived. It was deemed unconstitutional in 1985. A referendum reinstated it later that year.
Meadowlands Racetrack wasn’t always popular. In the late 1990s Bruton Smith considered buying the property. He wanted to build a NASCAR short track. Governor Christie also considered closing the track.
In 2011 however Jeff Gural acquired the track. He invested $110 million in renovations. The new grandstand opened in 2013. The track is now a world class entertainment venue. It hosts not just horse races but also concerts. Sports betting is another success story. FanDuel a daily fantasy sports service now handles betting. The track hosted over 100 Breeders Crown Finals. This more than any other racetrack.
The Meadowlands Racetrack continues to thrive. Its legacy includes amazing races incredible drivers and unforgettable moments. The thunder of hooves echoes through time. The roar of the crowd lives on. The Big M remains a symbol of excitement and passion.