Making the Grade (III) in Texas !
Gillespie Fair LogoIn 1977, Fredericksburg Downs, a three thousand seat grandstand was built at the Gillespie County Fairgrounds, in anticipation of pari-mutual wagering being legalized in Texas. It would take another thirteen years for that to become reality, but Fredericksburg Downs was ready to open as the second betting track in Texas and the first class III venue.
First Pari-Mutual MeetUnder Texas Law, a class III track must be a county or non profit fair and cannot conduct more than sixteen days of racing a year.
Gates of GillespieFredericksburg which is about eighty miles west of Austin, is no stranger to horse racing, it said that the first races there were held in 1888. The current version of racing in Fredericksburg, like most western fair locations features mostly quarter horses with a sprinkling of thoroughbred races.
Currently the season is eight days spread out over July and August with two weekends each month, culminating with The Gillespie County Fair, said to be the oldest, continues fair in the State of Texas. For fans of simulcasting The Race Barn is an OTB outlet, located at the entrance to the track.
As for myself I've never made it there, but The Alamo is on my bucket list, along with Manor Downs, Retama Park and Bandera Downs, which are nearby. Definitely worth considering.