About Aqueduct

An oldie, but a goodie, Aqueduct, known as The Big A, opened up back in 1894 in Queens, New York although the original track was demolished in 1956 after 62 successful years. It is the only race track within New York City limits.

A new track and facilities were opened to the public in 1959 and in ’75 the inner track was laid in order for the venue to host winter time racing which is now a feature here.

One of the key racing venues anywhere in North America, Aqueduct has hosted hundreds of top class races in its time and has contributed to the careers of many an equine star.

Over 17,000 people can be seated at Aqueduct for a total capacity of somewhere in excess of 40,000.

Aqueduct History

Since its inception in 1894, Aqueduct has been at the top of the racing game and it was made possible by the Queens County Jockey Club, something put together by Thomas Reilly.

Originally owned by a family of Dutch settlers, the land was leased from them in order to accommodate the new track but it took until 1895 for it to be recognized by the Jockey Club. At this time, investment was allowed and so vast improvements were made.

More land was purchased moving into the turn of the 20^th century and by 1955 the old track was demolished to make way for a new world class facility. Costing $33million (around $284million in today’s money), the new facility was opened in fall 1959 to rapturous acclaim.

Since these times many a big race has been held at this venue and in 1985 the track deservedly hosted its first Breeders’ Cup Championships, though it has not hosted the event since.

Aqueduct Track Details

The main track is a dirt oval of 9 furlongs which surrounds not one but two turf courses. The first is a one mile oval and the inner turf course is 7 furlongs in distance.

Biggest Races

Aqueduct is home to many big prizes, the biggest of them being:

Wood Memorial (Grade 1) – 3yo, 9 furlongs ($1,000,000, April) Cigar Mile Handicap (Grade 1) – 3yo+, one mile ($500,000, November) Carter Handicap (Grade 1) – 3yo+, 7 furlongs ($400,000, April) Gazelle Stakes (Grade 2) – 3yo fillies, 9 furlongs ($300,000, April) Gotham Stakes (Grade 3) – 3yo, one mile ($400,000, March)

Place Your Aqueduct Bets With TVG!

Now you know all about the track, don’t forget you can wager on races there with TVG. Head to our schedules page to check out the latest race times then bet and watch live!

Stay Up to Date With TVG!

Head over to our Aqueduct News page to get the latest news updates!

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Contact

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