 PHILADELPHIA
PARK
 Philadelphia Park is a thoroughbred racing facility in Bensalem, Pennsylvania.
It has two tracks that feature year-round horse racing.
Philadelphia Park is the proud home of Pennsylvania's premier thoroughbred
race, the Pennsylvania Derby. Held on Labor Day, the Pennsylvania Derby is
a nine-furlong race for three year olds.
The other events it hosts annually include the Cotillion Handicap, the Pennsylvania
Oaks, the Larry R. Riviello President’s Cup, the My Juliet, the Gallant
Bob Handicap and the Steve Van Buren Handicap.
Philadelphia Park is the home of 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes
winner Smarty Jones. His victories have generated renewed interest for this
track.
Philadelphia Park Track Facts
| • Main
Track |
: |
one
mile, oval |
| • Turf
Course |
: |
seven furlongs,
oval |
| • Distance
from last turn to finish line |
: |
974 feet |
History of Philadelphia Park
1974
- In November, Philadelphia Park opened under its original name Keystone.
1984
- The track was purchased by ITB for $40 million.
- It got its new name, a new turf course, and a new way to wager called
Phonebet.
Philadelphia Park
Bensalem, Pennsylvania
1990
- In December, Greenwood Racing became the track’s new owner.
- Full card simulcasting was added.
- Five off-track locations called Turf Clubs were also added.
1999
- The paddock at Philadelphia Park was expanded and refurbished while
the Grandstand’s exterior was repainted.
- A modern Turf Club was unveiled, complete with plush simulcast theaters,
a brand new dining room, and sports bar, a horsemen's lounge, and a grand
entrance.
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