Suffolk Downs, a thoroughbred race track in East Boston, Massachusetts, United States opened in 1935. Famous horses that have raced at this track include Seabiscuit, Whirlaway and Cigar. The MassCap is held there, as well at the annual Hot Dog Safari.
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History
The track was founded in 1935 after pari-mutuel wagering was legalized in Massachusetts. The first MassCap was held that year. The track raced through World War II. On 18 August 1966,[1] The Beatles played a concert before approximately 24,000 music fans in the infield of Suffolk Downs. Between 1990 and 1991 there was no racing at Suffolk. In 1992, this was resolved when a deal was brokered between Suffolk Downs and Rockingham Park. In 1995 the Massachusetts Handicap returned from a six-year hiatus with a victory by Cigar. The track is conveniently accessed by public transportation via the Suffolk Downs MBTA subway station on the Blue Line. In 2006, the track had an influx of new ownership, vowing to improve the success and future of Suffolk Downs. In addition, the MassCap will be held in September of 2007 with an improved purse of 500,000.
Physical attributes
The track is a one-mile dirt oval. There is also a seven-furlong inner turf oval.
Racing
The track is the host to numerous overnight handicaps and minor stakes. The flagship event is the MassCap, a Grade II event.
References
- ^ Moskowitz, Eric (2007-08-18). Delp's bandmates, friends unite in tribute and in sadness. The Boston Globe.
External links
- Suffolk Downs Website
- "A day at the races" Video by The Boston Globe
