In less than a week, the iconic Freehold Raceway, renowned as the oldest horse racing track in America, is set to close its doors. The history attached to this track is truly remarkable, with horses having raced there since the 1830s. It's a fact that leaves one in awe and disbelief. Howard Bruno, the track's general manager, expressed in a statement, "This was an extremely difficult decision, especially considering the historical significance of Freehold Raceway to the local community and the New Jersey horse racing industry. Unfortunately, the current operating conditions do not allow for the continuation of the racetrack, and we do not foresee a viable path forward. We are immensely grateful to our dedicated employees, horsemen, and fan base for their unwavering support over the years."

Memories of a Misspent Youth at Freehold

Back in the days of my misspent youth, I was a frequent visitor to Freehold. I would make the journey from Rider University, place my bets on the ponies, indulge in a smoke, and have an absolute blast. Even when I was back in Parsippany, I would regularly head to the Meadowlands. Horse racing truly is an amazing sport for those with a gambling inclination. With just two bucks, you can bet on any horse you fancy, get up close to the action, and experience the thrill of the race like no other when it comes to gambling. It was so much fun, and it's a pastime I haven't engaged in for a very long time.A friend of mine, who wishes to remain anonymous, has never stopped. He is at the Meadowlands every weekend, surrounded by his crew, and even owned a horse for a while. And sometimes, he has an uncanny ability to pick the winning horses.

An Unforgettable Race at the Meadowlands

In October 2020, a photo captured the exterior of the Freehold Raceway track in New Jersey. This particular track, through an agreement reached on January 12, 2021, has partnered with the Australian company PlayUp to offer mobile sports betting in New Jersey. It is the third New Jersey track to enter this realm.Let me share a top-20 memory of my life. Race time at the Meadowlands used to be 7:30 p.m., and around 6:45 p.m., I received a call from my buddy. He excitedly told me, "Raphie Boy is in the first race, and the odds are 30-to-1." Here's the thing: My friend didn't usually call with such tips. Sure, he would have his preferences at the track, but this phone call was a rarity. And here's the second part: He was at Rutgers and couldn't make it to the race. I was in Parsippany and was determined to make it. Along with my friend Matt, we hopped into my 1987 Pontiac 6000 STE, with its all-digital readout, and sped towards the Meadowlands. From my house, it was approximately a 45-minute drive, but we managed to make it in just 20 minutes. (Don't tell my parents!)We parked the car and sprinted into the track, reached the betting window, and placed our bet - $50 on Ralphie Boy to win. (It was to be split three ways.) Can you guess how this story ended? You were wrong! Ralphie Boy won! Just thinking about that moment and watching him surge to the lead on the last turn and hold on to win at the finish line gives me goosebumps.Love you, Ralphie Boy, love you, all you horse racing enthusiasts, and I will truly miss you, Freehold.