Sandy Ridge Opens Kentucky’s Only Quarter-Horse Track

What Happened

Sandy Ridge Racing held its first day of racing Thursday in Boyd County, about 15 minutes from Ashland and Catlettsburg. The $10 million facility sits beside Sandy’s Racing & Gaming and brings horse racing back to the area after Raceland’s brief run in the 1920s. Sandy Ridge is Kentucky’s only quarter-horse track, with races run down a straight chute rather than around a traditional oval. The opening meet carries $3 million in purses, admission is free, and FOX is covering the racing alongside Saratoga. Governor Andy Beshear attended and called the opening an important day for Ashland. The first day included a $66,000 race with about $15,000 in betting handle.

Why It Matters

• Eastern Kentucky now has a racing venue built for quarter horses, a different format from the thoroughbred tracks at Keeneland and Churchill Downs.
• The $3 million opening-meet purse pool gives the new facility a financial draw for horsemen during its first schedule.
• Free admission and FOX coverage give Sandy Ridge a chance to build a local audience beyond the track’s adjacent gaming operation.

THE PATE STATE READ

THE PATE STATE READ: Sandy Ridge gets credit for opening a new $10 million facility in a state where horse racing already has deep roots. The task now is keeping the operation sharp after the first-day ceremony. The camera coverage drew criticism during the opening race, which is a small problem until it becomes the image of the meet. The next test is repetition: clean broadcasts, steady attendance and a schedule that gives the quarter-horse format a reason to stand on its own.(Josh has not yet commented.)

What's Next

• August 20 at 1:30 p.m.: Sandy Ridge hosts its Chamber event.
• August 21 at 1:30 p.m.: Sandy Ridge continues its Kentucky Proud schedule.