On a damp Saturday in September, the echoes of hooves and the hum of anticipation filled the air at Freehold Raceway for one last time. The 171-year-old racetrack, once a vibrant hub of harness racing, prepared to bid adieu to its loyal patrons. As the final day unfolded, emotions ran high among those who had spent decades witnessing history unfold on this storied track.

A Legacy Lost: A Heartfelt Tribute to Freehold Raceway

The Last Hurrah: Emotions Run High Among Loyal Patrons

The atmosphere was palpable as longtime visitors gathered for what many considered an emotional farewell. Joan Borke, an 87-year-old widow, navigated the challenges of entering through Park Avenue, bypassing the broken window at Gate 1’s ticket booth. With her metal cane in hand and a sequined handbag adorned with a royal flush, she opted for the elevator over the questionable escalator. Her decision reflected the broader sentiment of mistrust that had developed over the years.For many, this day marked more than just the end of a sporting venue; it symbolized the decline of a community cornerstone. Mona Hagen, who immigrated from Norway 29 years ago, expressed deep concern for the future of small trainers and the broader horse racing industry. "It is the saddest day in racing," she lamented, hoping someone would step forward to preserve the legacy of New Jersey’s rich equestrian heritage.

Inside the Grandstand: Reflections on a Changing Industry

Tom Reynolds and Nancy Grbelja, chairwoman of the N.J. Sire Stakes board, sat at their usual table, reminiscing about the track’s heyday. The "Afternoon Delight" races were a highlight, but today’s scene painted a stark contrast. Grbelja criticized recent decisions, such as placing food trucks near the final turn, which she believed distracted the horses. The lack of investment in maintenance and facilities became evident, with issues like non-functioning escalators and neglected paddocks highlighting the management’s neglect.The absence of a live bugler added to the somber mood. Instead, recordings played over the public address system, where Larry Fox honored the contributions of patrons and employees alike. Gamblers flew in from distant states, reliving memories of past victories and losses. Frank Bernardini, a 61-year-old gambler from Staten Island, recalled his first big win as a boy, only to have the winnings pocketed by his father. Today, he stood along the rail, catching thrown whips from victorious drivers, a bittersweet reminder of the camaraderie that once thrived here.

The Closing Act: An Unforgettable Finale

As the final Budweiser was sold at Favorites, a bar inside the grandstand, the crowd grew larger. At 4:18 p.m., the last post parade began, with T’s Raider II claiming victory and an $8,800 purse. Friends and family members cheered, then muttered in disbelief when they noticed even the flowers in the winner’s circle were fake. Drivers tossed pylons into the crowd, and patrons clamored for mementos, trying to hold onto a piece of history.Muffin Petrin, the teletimer for the last 13 years, watched as friends relayed news of stolen memorabilia. Her favorite horse, Limerence, had retired after the seventh race. Despite the chaos, she marveled at how everyone stayed until the very end. Darkness fell, but the toteboard remained lit, reflecting in puddles around the track. Orange dots appeared at the end of gamblers’ cigarettes, signaling the close of an era.

Looking Ahead: Hope for Revival

Talk turned to other racetracks that had faced similar fates. Some mentioned Roosevelt Raceway’s closure in 1988, while others pointed to Yonkers as a potential model for rebirth. Bernardini, wearing a green sweatshirt with the Grinch’s face, suggested a doubleheader at Meadowlands, an hour’s drive north. Briganti, down to his last $90, agreed, ready to place another bet despite the odds.Freehold Raceway’s closing was described by Howard Bruno, the general manager, as an “extremely difficult decision.” Jointly owned by Penn Entertainment and Greenwood Racing, the track had struggled under existing conditions. Mayor Kevin Kane criticized management’s disinterest in promoting or marketing the venue, missing opportunities for events that could have revitalized interest. Despite the challenges, the hope remains that Freehold Raceway’s legacy will inspire future generations to keep the spirit of harness racing alive.