Balmoral Park Horse Racing Track in Illinois

Balmoral Park in Crete, Illinois, is a popular year-round harness racing track that has been running since 1925. Boasting excellent racing events, top steeds, brilliant drivers and excellent facilities, Balmoral Park race track also hosts simulcast racing, so the good times never end.

Back in 1925 Col. Matt J. Winn had Lincoln Fields constructed on a 1,050 acre piece of land. The name of the track was later changed to Balmoral Park. Balmoral’s first race, the Joliet Stakes, was held in 1926. The one-mile track was built in 1989, and since that time, harness racing at Balmoral Park has flourished. Previously the race track also hosted thoroughbred horse racing meets, however in 1991 it became a harness racing dedicated track. Balmoral Park race track has a stretch of 1,360 feet and breadth of 80 feet. The speed rating of this track is 1:581. A number of renowned harness races are run at Balmoral Park. Among these are the Champion On Ice Trotting Series, Plesac Trotting Series, Columbian Trot, Midwest Derby, Crete Trotting Series, Big Dog Pacing Series, Pacific Racing Series, American Nationals, Hanover Stakes and Fairy Godmother.

Illinois’ Balmoral Park race track has wonderful facilities ensuring the comfort and convenience of racegoers. The grandstand can accommodate about 8,300 eager spectators, whilst the clubhouse has space for 2,000. The park has sufficient parking for 15,000 vehicles, and dining options vary from light snacks to full meals at the concession stands, Balmoral Club Dining Room and Lincoln Room Bar and Grill. Simulcast races are transmitted from racetracks around the USA and Canada, with simulcast wagering being very popular. Balmoral Park’s highest recorded handle was set in 2000 at $ 2 817 966. The biggest attendance was in 1990 with 11,494 attendees.

Balmoral is easily accessed along Calumet Expressway S or Dixie Highway, just 38 miles away from Chicago’s loop. Offering exquisite racing in a convenient location, Balmoral Park is a popular race track amongst harness racing fans throughout the state of Illinois.

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