Bay Meadows Racetrack Horse Racing

About Bay Meadows Racetrack

Founded in 1934, Bay Meadows Racetrack in San Mateo, California, is the longest continually operating racetrack in the Golden State. Bay Meadows, for a track of its size, holds a wealth of history, making it a monument to horse racing itself. Pari-mutuel wagering, the Daily Double, the first all-enclosed starting gate, the totalizator board, and the photo-finish camera, were all introduced to racing at Bay Meadows. In fact, even the first horse transported by air, landed at Bay Meadows. This took place in 1945, when El Lobo was flown from Los Angeles by his owner, country and western entertainer Stuart Hamblem, to contest the Burlingame Handicap. After landing on an airstrip adjacent to Bay Meadows, El Lobo completed the history-making journey by winning the race. Bay Meadows is also home to the longest-running stakes event in California, the Bay Meadows Handicap, which was captured in 1937 and '38 by the great Seabiscuit.

The track also survived during World War II and generated more than $4 million for the War Relief project during the years within the conflict.

Bay Meadows has a seating capacity of 12,000, includes two courses, the main track, in addition to the Longden Turf Course, and a unique indoor Paddock that allows visitors to view thoroughbreds under climate-controlled conditions. The track also includes a wide selection in terms of dining accommodations. Outdoor dining accommodations include: The Infield, The Clubhouse Patio and The Gallery. Indoor accommodations include: the Turf Club, a gorgeous glass restaurant with a panoramic view of the track; The Kyne Room, an upscale dining room; and the Directors Room, a more private high-class restaurant, located at the very top of the track.