One of New Jersey’s oldest harness racing tracks, Freehold Raceway, will be shutting down in December. The announcement was made recently, devastating fans and industry professionals alike. The raceway has been in operation since 1853 and has played a significant role in the state’s racing history.
The closure of the Freehold Raceway is a result of declining revenues and increased competition from neighboring states. The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the business, with restrictions on capacity and spectators affecting attendance and revenue. Despite efforts to increase interest in the track, including live streaming of races and off-track betting, the financial challenges have proven insurmountable.
The closure of the Freehold Raceway will have a ripple effect on the local community, as the track has been a source of jobs and economic activity for many years. Employees will be left without work, and local businesses that rely on raceway visitors will also be impacted. Additionally, the closure will be felt by the horse racing industry as a whole, as Freehold Raceway has been a prominent fixture in the sport for over a century.
Fans of harness racing are saddened by the news, as Freehold Raceway has been a beloved destination for many in the region. The track’s rich history and tradition will be missed, and many are hopeful that some form of racing can return to the area in the future. In the meantime, efforts are being made to ensure a smooth transition for employees and to find new opportunities for those affected by the closure.
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