Thoroughbred racing is one of America’s oldest sports, and it has a colorful history. Seabiscuit, Man o’ War, Secretariat, Arcaro, and the Jones Boys are all heroes of the turf and names that evoke the clang of the starting gate, the thunder of pounding hooves—the sights and sounds of racing. Located at the historic Saratoga Springs racetrack, this museum celebrates the sport and the animals whose grace and beauty have become legendary. General Topics: History, Industry, Popular Culture, Diversity
ODE TO THE BEAST
Secretariat, a horse that was revered during his lifetime, is now immortalized in bronze in the courtyard at The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, New York. A major attraction in the Museum, this sculpture captures the excitement and thrill of Secretariat’s Triple Crown win in 1973.
WIN, PLACE AND SHOW
Win, Place or Show, betting is the fuel that keeps racing going. Owners compete for the “purse,” or the prize money while spectators gamble on the outcome. Sophisticated bettors and amateur race fans win – and lose – millions each year pursuing the big payday.
THE JOCKEYS
Some consider jockeys to be pound-for-pound the best athletes in the world. With intense competition taking place at 30 – 40 miles per hour, these 100-pound humans must be strong enough to control 1,000 pounds of horse. Women jockeys participate in the only sport where men and women compete on equal ground. Julie Krone was the first woman ever to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and the first woman ever to win the Belmont Stakes.
THE MATCH RACES
Match races, which pit one horse against another, are considered a pure form of the sport. This 1938 poster commemorates an historic event, with two iconic horses, the regal War Admiral, and the short, stocky Seabiscuit, facing off. The race became a battle between East and West, with underdog Seabiscuit claiming victory for the West.
START TO FINISH
Coveted gold and silver trophies represent victory in many of the major races. Gorgeous and gleaming, these works of art often have intricate designs that convey some of the history and beauty of this sport.
