The track gained overnight attention from Smarty Jones’ fame and was partially responsible for the passage of the bill allowing for casinos in Pennsylvania. After Smarty Jones’ successes at this track, as well as others, Parx Racing & Casino created a number of commemorative events in his honor as he had been born and raised a short distance from the track. Other notable facts are that many famous thoroughbred race horses have spent time in the oval, including Shuvee, My Juliet, Spectacular Bid, Revidere, Summer Squall, and Broad Bush, but most identifiable, the 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner, Smarty Jones. took control of the racetrack allowing “club” membership, enhancing customer loyalty and satisfaction. Under ITB management the racetrack saw many improvements such as, a new turf course, the addition of a cutting edge betting system, and a television show for promotional purposes. From there International Thoroughbred Breeders (ITB) purchased the track in 1984, changing the name to Philadelphia Park. When the racetrack first opened, as Keystone Racetrack, it soon became the area’s premier thoroughbred racetrack. The racetrack changed hands and was renamed multiple times since its inception in November 1974. It has a rich history of ownership and has seen many top performing thoroughbred racehorses come through its gates. Parx Racing & Casino is located in Bensalem, Bucks County, just twenty minutes northeast of Philadelphia.

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