Farewell to The Big A: Celebrating the Legacy of Aqueduct Racetrack

This month, New York racing says goodbye to one of its most iconic venues: Aqueduct Racetrack.

First opened on September 27, 1894, Aqueduct spent more than 130 years as the winter home of New York racing and the only major racetrack located within New York City. For generations of horseplayers, owners, trainers, and fans, "The Big A" wasn't just a racetrack—it was a proving ground.

Aqueduct witnessed some of the sport's greatest moments. Legends including Seabiscuit and Secretariat raced beneath its grandstand, while the track hosted the Belmont Stakes from 1963 through 1967 during renovations to Belmont Park.

Perhaps no track was more synonymous with hard-knocking winter racing. Through snow, wind, and freezing temperatures, Aqueduct kept the New York circuit alive when most major racing venues had gone dark. It launched countless careers and served as the stage for prestigious races including the Wood Memorial, Gotham Stakes, Cigar Mile, Remsen Stakes, and Gazelle Stakes.

On June 28, 2026, Aqueduct will host its final day of live racing as operations transition to the newly renovated Belmont Park. While racing moves forward, the memories created at Aqueduct will remain part of racing history forever.

Tracks are made of dirt, steel, and concrete. Their legacy is built by the horses, horsemen, and fans who fill them with life.

Thank you, Aqueduct.

The Big A may close its gates, but its place in Thoroughbred racing history is permanent.