The beginning of 2025 brings a thrilling start to the horse racing calendar, featuring multiple races and events across various tracks in North America. The action kicks off on New Year’s Day with live coverage from several venues. The excitement continues into the weekend with two significant Kentucky Derby points preps: the Smarty Jones Stakes at Oaklawn Park and the Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct. These races will be showcased on NYRA's "America’s Day at the Races," broadcast on FOX Sports channels. Additionally, live racing from Gulfstream Park, Santa Anita Park, Turfway Park, Fair Grounds, and other tracks will be available on FanDuel TV and Racetrack Television Network (RTN). Subscribers can also stream races from around the world via RTN on various devices.
January marks an important month for horse racing enthusiasts as it sets the stage for the upcoming season. The early days of the year are packed with live broadcasts and special programs. The Smarty Jones Stakes and Jerome Stakes are key highlights, offering crucial points for the Kentucky Derby qualification. The extensive television and radio schedules ensure that fans can catch all the action, whether they prefer traditional broadcasts or streaming services. With a variety of platforms providing comprehensive coverage, the new racing season promises to be both exciting and accessible.
New Year's Day Kicks Off with Live Racing Coverage
The dawn of 2025 sees the commencement of the racing season with live broadcasts from multiple tracks across North America. On New Year’s Day, racing fans can tune into FanDuel TV and Racetrack Television Network (RTN) for live coverage of various races. Both networks offer flexibility in post times, ensuring viewers can catch every moment of the action. This inaugural day sets the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating year of horse racing, highlighting the diversity and richness of the sport.
The significance of New Year’s Day cannot be overstated as it marks the official start of the racing calendar. Fans have the opportunity to witness top-tier competitions from different locations, each bringing its unique flavor to the sport. FanDuel TV provides comprehensive coverage, capturing the essence of the races with expert commentary and analysis. Meanwhile, RTN offers an alternative platform, accessible through various devices, making it convenient for subscribers to follow their favorite horses and jockeys. The day’s events lay the foundation for the excitement that will unfold throughout the year, setting high expectations for the coming months.
Weekend Highlights: Smarty Jones and Jerome Stakes
The weekend following New Year’s Day is filled with notable events, particularly the Smarty Jones Stakes at Oaklawn Park and the Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct. These races are part of the prestigious Kentucky Derby points system, adding extra importance to the outcomes. NYRA’s "America’s Day at the Races" program, airing on FOX Sports channels, features these races along with undercard action from Queens and Hot Springs. The program ensures that fans can enjoy a full day of racing entertainment, culminating in the climax of the weekend’s events.
The Smarty Jones Stakes and Jerome Stakes are not just any races; they serve as critical stepping stones for horses aiming to qualify for the Kentucky Derby. The stakes are high, with each race offering valuable points that can significantly impact a horse’s chances of securing a spot in the coveted Derby lineup. The broadcast on FS2 from Friday to Sunday allows fans to immerse themselves in the drama and excitement of these races. Moreover, additional coverage from Gulfstream Park, Santa Anita Park, Turfway Park, and Fair Grounds adds depth to the weekend’s offerings. Whether watching on television or streaming online, racing enthusiasts can anticipate a weekend filled with intense competition and thrilling moments.