Tech Valley Museums Track Horse Racing’s History
Published Apr 15, 2008
Ever wanted to know what it feels like to spend more than two minutes on the back of a racehorse – during an actual race? Or what it’s like to tear around a track in a harness rig?
You can have those experiences and more at the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame and the Goshen Harness Racing Museum.
The National Museum is located in Saratoga Springs, and opened its doors in 1956. Since then, it has placed 176 thoroughbreds, 88 jockeys and 84 trainers in its hall of fame, says Mike Kane, communications officer.
“In addition to the annual induction, we have a lot of programs during racing season and through the summer months, as well as tours of the nearby training tracks. People get to see the horses being worked out, bathed, shod – whatever’s going on when they’re over there.”
The Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame in Goshen dates back to 1951, but was renovated and expanded in 1996.
“We included a lot of computer-driven exhibits, including a simulator which really gives the feel of being in a harness race,” says Gail Cunard, director.
The National Mueum has a simulator of its own, which puts you on the back of a horse during a race that was filmed at Hollywood Park in 1995.
“It’s a pretty realistic ride,” Kane says. “We’ve had jockeys get up there and when they get off, even they have rubbery legs, so you can figure out what the average guy who’s never done this before is going to feel like!”
Story by Joe Morris
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