Not-for-profit operator of New York’s three major Thoroughbred tracks
Cherie DeVaux has become the first woman to win the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, guiding Golden Tempo to Belmont success as the track reopens after renovations; debate lingers over theTriple Crown, including the skipped Preakness.
Aqueduct Racetrack has hosted racing for 132 years before closing its live races. The New York Racing Association is consolidating thoroughbred racing at Belmont Park and Saratoga, with Aqueduct remaining for simulcasting until September and Belmont reopening after a $550 million rebuild.
The Preakness Stakes will shift to a Sunday during Memorial Day Weekend next year, breaking a century-long pattern of racing on the third Saturday in May. Maryland officials say the move aims to attract a stronger field amid recent declines in Derby-Preakness cross-entry. Belmont remains on its June date, with a broader championship series tying the three races together.