Monmouth Park Horse Racing Track in New Jersey
Monmouth Park Race Track, a beautifully set racing establishment, thoroughly immerses patrons in the world of horse racing, from its historical years to the latest in entertainment. Located in Oceanport of New Jersey, Monmouth Park offers a truly unforgettable experience for racing enthusiasts.
Founded in 1870, the original Monmouth track was at the site of what is today the Fort Monmouth parade ground. It closed between 1873 and 1881, after which it was purchased by a group of interested parties. Once again the doors were closed in 1894, this time because parimutuel gambling was banned in the state. Horse racing was once again permitted under the state legislation in 1946 and Monmouth Park opened to the public in that same year. Monmouth was later purchased by the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority. Monmouth Park race track is best known as the host of the Haskell Invitational Handicap which first took place in 1968. Held every August, the Haskell is a 1 1/8 mile race for three-year-olds.
Monmouth Park race track is a 1 mile dirt oval with a breadth of 100 feet. The topsoil used is a blend of loam, silt and clay. The turf course is 7/8 mile on the inside of the main track. Renowned horses to race on Monmouth’s turf course have included John Henry, Fort Marcy, Mongo, Cozzene and Hawaii. Monmouth Park’s racing season is held between May and September during which many thrilling races bring top horses into competition with each other. Be sure not to miss graded stakes such as the Haskell Invitational Handicap, Molly Pitcher Breeders’ Cup Handicap, Jersey Shore Breeders’ Cup Stakes, Matchmaker Handicap, Red Band Handicap, United Nations Handicap, Monmouth Breeders’ Cup Oaks, Salvator Mile Handicap and Oceanport Handicap. Post time is typically 12:50 p.m.
In addition to a fascinating history and exciting thoroughbred racing events, Monmouth offers some of the best facilities around. Stabling is provided for 1,600 horses. In the backstretch zone, patrons will discover The Quadrangle, a lovely center containing the Frenchman’s Kitchen, an apparel store, a post office, offices and a recreation hall with movies and games. Before the races begin excited racegoers can view the racing horses, athletes of the race track, in the Walking Ring. A truly magnificent sight. Visitors to Monmouth Park are left in no doubt as to why it attracts such large crowds.
