Harness racing's premier event, Hambletonian, coming to Indiana

The Hambletonian, a century-old and iconic event in harness racing, will make its debut in Indiana beginning in 2027. The Indiana Horse Racing Commission announced the decision on Thursday, with the race set to take place at Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing and Casino in Anderson. This marks a significant move for the sport, as the Hambletonian had previously been held at Meadowlands Racetrack in East Rutherford, New Jersey since 1981.

Known as the "Super Bowl of harness racing," the event draws top three-year-old trotters from across North America and generates substantial economic impact in Indiana, with a Purdue University study finding the state's horse racing industry contributes approximately $2 billion annually. Indiana Governor Mike Braun expressed enthusiasm for the decision, crediting a collaboration of various organizations for securing the opportunity.

The Hambletonian is expected to provide a national and international platform for Indiana's racing, breeding, and agricultural industries, generating significant tourism and economic activity.

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