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Horse racing is best experienced at the track. Unfortunately, these opportunities are becoming fewer and far between. Professional horse racing has taken some hits over the last few decades.

Where once these venues were the only places people could gamble legally, now there are tons of options. Convenient for fans, but not so good for the sport. Attendance has been declining slowly.

Unfortunately, this has led to many tracks closing. Are viewing opportunities dwindling into nothing? Never fear, North Carolina racing fans. Your state still has tons of opportunities for fans, including seats at one of the oldest continuously operating venues in the country.

Pinehurst

Pinehurst is the oldest and most highly celebrated racing track in North Carolina. It’s been in continuous operation since 1915 and is noted both for its beautiful and immense grounds and its year-round training facilities. When this historic venue is not being used to host races, it often is home to short-term events like fairs or cultural festivals.

The expansive property features carefully maintained tracks surrounded by towering pine trees native to the Carolina Sandhills region. These natural elements create a picturesque backdrop that has made Pinehurst a favorite among racing photographers and enthusiasts alike. The facility combines historic charm with modern amenities, having undergone several renovations throughout its century-plus existence while preserving its architectural character.

Viewing Party

It might just be possible that the best place to watch horse racing in North Carolina is in your own house. Viewing parties are a classic component of the Derby experience. Most of us can’t afford to spend several thousand dollars on tickets to a Triple Crown event.

Why would we even want to when a possible alternative is gathering in the company of friends?

If you plan on betting on the Kentucky Derby, you can make it fun with wagering pools among your friends. Encourage people to dress up in their best take on the events in a very distinct fashion.

Don’t forget to develop a good drink menu. The Kentucky Derby is famously associated with mint julep but anything with some good Kentucky bourbon in it will do nicely.

It’s true that horse racing has taken some hits over the years. It’s an ancient game in a world that only seems to move rapidly in one direction. That doesn’t mean it’s going anywhere. Racing may change but it will remain a fixture of the American sport’s scene.

This is good news for North Carolina racing fans. The only question is, how do you want to experience your favorite races this year?

Sports Bars

Pinehurst is the primary physical venue for horse racing viewing. Your next best option will be to find a friendly local sports bar—preferably one with tempting drink specials. Most sports bars will already be showing major horse racing events, like the triple crown races. For smaller events—and lay people tend to think of everything that isn’t the Derby as “small,” you may need to specially request it from the bartender. On a quiet night, they should be happy to oblige.

Some bars partner with online betting platforms, making it easy to place wagers while you watch. This creates a more engaging experience similar to being at the track. These partnerships often include special promotions tied to featured races.

The social atmosphere of sports bars adds another dimension to race viewing. You’ll find fellow racing enthusiasts to share tips with or celebrate alongside when your pick crosses the finish line first. This communal experience captures some of the excitement of being trackside.

Look for bars that serve traditional race day cocktails like Mint Juleps during Derby season or Black-Eyed Susans for the Preakness. These themed touches enhance the authentic racing experience even when you’re miles from the actual venue.

VR

VR can be used both as a way to experience the culture of an event and sometimes, to get a “front-row seat,” to the race itself. Major racers that have a strong culture—such as the Derby—might use VR as a way of bringing certain components of the attendance experience to your home. For example, touring the facilities virtually. Seeing the fashion. Etc. VR is also being used as a way to watch an event from the vantage point of someone with really good seats.

Some tracks now offer virtual paddock tours. You can see the horses up close. VR lets you walk through historic venues when they’re empty. You can explore areas normally off-limits to guests. The technology captures pre-race ceremonies in full 360 degrees.

Racing organizations create virtual museum exhibits about famous horses. You can relive legendary races from multiple angles. Some apps let you switch viewing positions during a live race. You might watch from the grandstand or from the trackside.

The sound design in these experiences is increasingly realistic. You hear the thunder of hooves as horses pass. The crowd roars when favorites take the lead. This audio immersion makes you feel present at the event.

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