Flagler Greyhound Track marks 80th Anniversary with Hecht Marathon Championship re-launch
Flagler Greyhound Track, Miami’s oldest racetrack and casino is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year and to mark this event it is re-launching the Hecht Marathon Championship this October.
For more than 50 years the Flagler Greyhound Track was the main attraction of Magic City but in recent times the track has stood empty for most part.
The track has a seating capacity of 7000 but in recent times spectator numbers have fallen immensely and most of the 7000 seats lie vacant.
What is interesting to note is that although the race has a purse of $50,000 it is open to all with no entry fee. The championship is an attempt to revive the fast fading concept of distance racing in South Florida.
This is a much needed attempt especially since the last long distance race in South Florida was the 7/16ths Mile Stake ran six years ago in 2005. The last Greyhound to have won here was Instant Vintage of DQ Williams Kennel, owned by Tina Williams.
The track is not just involved in horse racing but also provides homes to retired Greyhounds by encouraging people to adopt them as household pets.
It is hoped that the event revives the love for Greyhound racing among spectators and bettors alike and the grandstand is filled to the brim.
The champion will win prize money of $20,000 while all the participants in the final will get at least $2,000 for making it through to the final. It is likely that the winner will be propelled to new heights of success after making it to the top of this
field in October.
This race is the perfect opportunity for long distance Greyhounds as it will be run over a distance of 2310 feet, a relief for Greyhounds that start slow, as they will have ample opportunity to catch up with the rest of the field.
Complete with exquisite dining, slot machines, a luxurious club and of course great racing the Flagler Greyhound Track is the perfect racing and betting experience and this fall the Hecht Marathon Championship will double the fun for visitors.
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