The weekend horse racing scene is highlighted by the $1 million Pennsylvania Derby at Parx Racing, a focal point amidst 10 additional stakes races, including four graded events. Parx Racing is set to draw significant attention from the racing community, with notable horses and jockeys ready to compete.

In the lead-up to the Pennsylvania Derby, the performance of Thorpedo Anna in the Travers Stakes has been a topic of considerable discussion. Trainer Kenny McPeek praised the winner of that race, acknowledging that "he was the best horse, he ran more ground than we did." This commendation sets high expectations for Thorpedo Anna as she prepares for her next challenge in the Cotillion at Parx.

Meanwhile, the horse racing community is coping with the imminent closure of Freehold Raceway, the oldest horse racing track in the United States. The track, located in Freehold, N.J., will shut its doors on December 28, bringing an end to a historic era in horse racing. The announcement has left many racing enthusiasts nostalgic and concerned about the future of the sport in the region.

Amid the closures and uncertainties, there is a glimmer of hope in Illinois. With the closure of Arlington, Illinois racing has been struggling, but Fairmount Park is emerging as a beacon of optimism. Efforts are underway to redevelop Hawthorne Race Course and revitalize horse racing in the state. The dedication to these initiatives signals a commitment to keeping the sport alive and thriving in Illinois.

As the racing calendar progresses, tracks like Churchill Downs, Gulfstream Park, and Aqueduct continue to host significant events, sustaining the excitement and competitiveness of horse racing across the country.