Ever wonder where champion thoroughbred Seabiscuit won stake races? Welcome to Yonkers Raceway. This historic harness racing track has thrilled crowds for 125 years.
Founded in 1899, Yonkers Raceway began as the Empire City Trotting Club. William H. Clark was its founder. It was originally named Empire City Race Track. Today, Yonkers Raceway is a world-renowned venue. It holds more races per year than any other track.
Imagine over one million horses gracing this track. Originally for harness racing, thoroughbred racing arrived in 1907. It continued until 1943. Seabiscuit, the legendary 1938 American Horse of the Year, achieved significant victories here. He won a purse of $7,300 at the Scarsdale Handicap. This set a new record at the 1936 Yonkers Raceway event. Seabiscuit won more stake races at Yonkers Raceway than at any other racetrack.
Celebrities frequented Yonkers Raceway. Famous musicians, politicians, and athletes visited. Frank Sinatra, Ed Sullivan, Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle, and Jack Dempsey were among them. Even former U.S. Presidents like Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan came to visit.
In 2021, UFC Lightweight Champion Charles Oliveira won an exhibition race. He competed against Harness Hall of Fame Driver Tim Tetrick. In December 2023, NBA MVP Nikola Jokic visited. He is an avid harness racing team owner and fan.
MGM Resorts acquired Empire City and Yonkers Raceway in 2019. They invested over $1 million to enhance the racing experience. The track was resurfaced and regraded. Turns were raised by a foot. Improvements were made to the track lighting with an LED system. The paddock was resurfaced. A new state-of-the-art tote board with video capabilities was installed. These upgrades are the first of their kind in over 15 years.
Yonkers Raceway contributes significantly to New York’s economy. The horse racing industry contributes over $3 billion to the state economy. It supported more than 20,000 jobs in 2023.
Legislators participate in the annual Legislative Pace event. They experience harness racing firsthand. It is typically dubbed the hottest political race of the year.
Yonkers Raceway hosts live racing Monday through Friday evenings. The first race post time is 7:00 p.m. Over 80 equine athletes compete nightly. Races are simulcast and available for viewing and wagering online.
Yonkers Raceway has a rich history. It has evolved into a premier destination for harness racing. With MGM Resorts’ continued investment, Yonkers Raceway remains an iconic sports venue. The 126th racing season began in January 2025. Over 80 equine athletes compete nightly. With $50 million in purses set for 2025, Yonkers Raceway leads the world in racing payouts.