National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, nestled in the picturesque town of Saratoga Springs, New York, is a treasure trove for enthusiasts of Thoroughbred horse racing. This esteemed institution, founded in 1950, stands as a testament to the rich heritage and thrilling history of one of America's most beloved sports. Whether you're a seasoned racing aficionado or a curious newcomer, a visit to this museum promises an engaging and enlightening experience.

A Journey Through Time

The origins of the National Museum of Racing trace back to a single room in Saratoga's Canfield Casino, where it first opened its doors in 1951. Thanks to the generous donations from the city of Saratoga Springs, the Saratoga Racing Association, and various patrons of the sport, the museum quickly grew in stature and collection. By 1955, it had relocated to its current location on Union Avenue, directly across from the historic Saratoga Race Course. This move marked the beginning of the Hall of Fame inductions, which have since become a cherished annual tradition.

Hall of Fame Inductions

The Hall of Fame is the heart of the museum, celebrating the remarkable achievements of horses, jockeys, and trainers who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Each spring, the nominating committee selects a slate of candidates from four contemporary categories: colts and horses, fillies and mares, jockeys, and trainers. The voting process, which allows for multiple inductees from a single category, ensures that the most deserving figures receive their due recognition. The actual inductions take place in mid-August during the Saratoga race meeting, adding to the excitement of the racing season.

Exhibits and Galleries

The museum's extensive collection of art, artifacts, and memorabilia spans the history of horse racing from the eighteenth century to the present. Visitors can explore a variety of themed galleries, each offering a unique perspective on the sport's evolution:

• The Link Gallery: Featuring a bronze statue of Seasick and a rotating selection of paintings.
• The Sculpture Gallery: Showcasing works by renowned artists such as June Harrah, Herbert Haseltine, and John Skeaping. The gallery also offers a view of the inner courtyard, home to a life-size bronze of Secretariat by Skeaping.
• The Colonial Gallery: Covering the ocean transportation of horses and the foundations of American racing.
• The Pre-Civil War Gallery: Chronicling the expansion of racing during the early 19th century.
• The Post-Civil War Gallery: Highlighting the continued growth of racing after the Civil War and the subsequent backlash against gambling in the early 20th century.
• The 20th Century Gallery: Focusing on more recent developments in the sport.
• The Eclipse Gallery: Displaying award-winning entries from the Eclipse Award photography competition.
• The Racing Day Gallery: Featuring exhibits about jockeys, odds, and the Breeders' Cup.
• The Anatomy Room: Delving into the breeding and biology of the Thoroughbred.
• The Triple Crown Gallery: Showcasing artifacts and information related to Triple Crown history.
• The Steeplechase Gallery: Covering the history of steeplechase racing in America.
• The von Stade Gallery: Displaying a selection of paintings, works on paper, or photographic prints from the Museum Collection.
• The Peter McBean Gallery: Housing temporary exhibitions, the semi-permanent Hall of Fame Heroes exhibition, and seasonal exhibitions. This gallery also features a collection bequeathed by John Nerud, including trophies and paintings of the Hall of Fame horses he trained, Gallant Man and Dr. Fager.

Notable Art and Artifacts

The museum's collection includes over 300 paintings, ranging from depictions of early racing days in England by John E. Ferneley Sr. to contemporary champions by Richard Stone Reeves. Featured artists include William Smithson Broadhead, Vaughn Flannery, Sir Alfred J. Munnings, Frederic Remington, and more. Among the prized artifacts are Kelso's five Jockey Club Gold Cup trophies and the Triple Crown trophies of Count Fleet.

Pillars of the Turf

Established in 2013, the Pillars of the Turf category honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to Thoroughbred racing in a leadership or pioneering capacity at the highest national level. This category recognizes the visionaries and trailblazers who have shaped the sport and ensured its enduring legacy.

Visiting the Museum

A visit to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is more than just a journey through the history of horse racing; it's an exploration of the passion, dedication, and artistry that define this exhilarating sport. Whether you're captivated by the stunning art, intrigued by the detailed exhibits, or inspired by the stories of Hall of Fame inductees, the museum offers a rich and immersive experience for all.

So, saddle up and head to Saratoga Springs for a day of discovery and delight at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. It's a destination that promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the sport and its storied past.