Monmouth Park officials are already looking ahead to 2027 following the conclusion of the track’s 81st season, which saw a decline in both average total handle and average on-site handle. This year’s 50-day meet was shortened to 48 days due to severe heat and heavy smoke from Canadian wildfires, leading to the cancellation of races on July 3 and 4.
The average total handle for 2026 dropped to $2,845,807 from $3,641,403 in 2025, while the average on-track handle fell from $341,340 to $281,772. Dennis Drazin, Chairman and CEO of Darby Development LLC, which operates Monmouth Park, acknowledged outside factors such as weather and foal crop challenges but emphasized the need to find solutions rather than place blame. He also highlighted the difficulty in competing with nearby states benefiting from casino and slot machine revenues boosting their purses.
Despite these challenges, Monmouth Park remains committed to working with state officials to strengthen the track and the New Jersey Thoroughbred industry. As Drazin stated, the focus now shifts to improving outcomes in 2027 and beyond.
Attendance remained relatively steady, buoyed by record crowds on Father’s Day (30,367 attendees) and Mother’s Day (16,368 attendees), with the average attendance this year at 6,532 compared to 6,650 last year. The NYRA Bets Haskell Day saw 35,608 fans despite significant storms and flood threats. However, weather impacted the Memorial Day weekend, forcing all 12 turf races to be run off the grass due to heavy rain.
Individually, jockey Paco Lopez secured his 13th riding title at Monmouth Park, tying Joe Bravo for the most titles in the track’s history, and marking his eighth consecutive championship. Jorge Delgado repeated as top trainer with 25 wins, including six victories with 2-year-olds. Owner Brad Altschuld’s Brad’s Equine Adventure won the leading owner honors for the first time, with the milestone winner crossing the finish line on the final day. Altschuld dedicated his achievement to his late mother, Carla, who introduced him to racing.
Christian Maragh led apprentices with 14 wins, placing eighth overall in the jockey standings.
Looking ahead, the New Jersey Thoroughbred season will move to the nine-day, all-turf Monmouth at Meadowlands meet starting Friday, September 18, running through October 16.
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Fan Take: This report highlights the ongoing struggles Monmouth Park faces amid tough competition and unpredictable weather, yet underscores the enduring passion of its community. For horse racing fans, the resilience shown here is a hopeful sign that with focused efforts, the sport can thrive despite external challenges, preserving a cherished tradition for years to come.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
