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HorseRacing

Wyoming's First Mile-Long Horse Racing Track: Thunder Plains Park

2024-11-25

Wyoming's horse racing landscape is about to undergo a significant transformation with the approval of Thunder Plains Park. This state-of-the-art track is set to host 16 live race dates in 2025, along with simulcasting and related activities. The first racing season will commence with a bang on Friday, August 1, followed by additional race days throughout the month.

Unleashing the Potential of Wyoming's Horse Racing Industry

Approval and Initial Setup

The Wyoming Gaming Commission has given the green light to Thunder Plains Park, marking a momentous occasion for the state's horse racing community. While temporary structures will be in place during the first racing season, the essential components such as barns, the racing officials' tower, video patrol towers, and spectator areas are already in position. This ensures a seamless start to the racing action.The track, located 10 miles east of Cheyenne, is primed to become a hub of activity. Its inaugural race day on August 1 is expected to draw horse racing enthusiasts from far and wide. The subsequent race days, spread across August and September, offer a series of thrilling events that will keep the excitement alive.

Bringing Opportunities and Impact

For Ryan Clement, a fifth-generation Wyomingite, bringing this track to the state holds great significance. Thunder Plains sees a golden opportunity to make a positive impact on the Wyoming horse racing industry and the local economy. New job opportunities will emerge, and tourism revenue will see a boost. This is not just about horse racing; it's about creating a vibrant ecosystem that benefits everyone.Through partnerships with elite industry veterans and horsemen, Thunder Plains is committed to delivering high-quality, high-caliber racing. By collaborating with 1/ST, North America's preeminent Thoroughbred racing, entertainment, and pari-mutuel wagering company, they are setting the standard for horse safety across the nation.

Safety and Track Protocols

The partnership with 1/ST TECHNOLOGY's Senior Vice President Jeff True highlights the exciting opportunities ahead. 1/ST has a proven track record of operating premier racetracks and events. They are bringing their expertise to Wyoming, ensuring that the track is operated with numerous horse safety and welfare protocols in place.The mile-long and eighty-feet-wide track itself significantly improves horse and rider safety. During the design and construction process, Thunder Plains collaborated with Dennis Moore, a renowned track surface specialist. This ensures the safest and most high-quality racing surface, giving horses the best possible conditions to perform.

Future Plans and Expansion

Future plans at Thunder Plains Park include building a regional equestrian center and establishing a high-altitude horse training and breeding program. This will further enhance the track's significance and contribute to the growth of the horse racing industry in Wyoming. It's a vision that holds great promise for the future.In conclusion, Thunder Plains Park is set to become a game-changer in Wyoming's horse racing scene. With its approval, partnerships, and future plans, it is poised to bring excitement, opportunities, and a new level of excellence to the state.