Track Menu


Race Dates
2017
3/18 - 11/25




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  The Red Five Eights Mile!     

Pocno Downs Pocono Downs became the third racetrack to open in Pennsylvania in 1964 Since it's inception it has been a harness track, thoroughbred track, had it's leading rider kidnapped, and survived a near riot.

Pocono Downs  Originally designed as a harness track, Pocono Downs pulled double duty as a thoroughbred venue starting in 1969 when Pennsylvania legalized wagering on that breed. Putting the cart before the horse the state had no thoroughbred tracks so all three harness tracks handled double meets while new tracks were built.

 In 1971 a near riot begin when some fans were upset about an exacta payoff that was less than the winners price. Fans overturned benches and started trashcans on fire before the Pennsylvania State Police restored order. Several drivers were suspended for the incident. In another matter leading Jockette Mary Bacon was kidnapped at knifepoint on her way to the track. She was able to escape her abductor and suffered no harm.

 Pocono Downs In 1980 thoroughbred racing was discontinued and Pocono Downs returned full time to harness racing. In 2006 opened it's racino after being granted a license from the state. 

Pocono Downs is said to have one of the safest racing surfaces in the country. Annually about $60,000 are spent on red sand materials which give the track it's reddish cast.