Update: February, 2022. A 4 year extension was granted in 2018 to Rillito Race Track. Race dates for 2023 are over 6 weekends this year, Feb. 4- April 2. IF you love the Race Track as we do, plan on going and/or donating. We took pictures at the meet in 2016. Prices have increased. Changes have been made to ensure the safety of the horses. Call 520-940-2956 for Clubhouse tables.
March, 2016 – Horse racing at Rillito Park has never been better, but the future of this historic site remains in the balance. Backers, sponsors and fans and the U of A are working tirelessly to keep this venue a part of quintessential Tucson.
Rillito Racetrack is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the “Birthplace” of the photo finish and quarterhorse racing. Students of the UA Racetrack Management program are taking part in this year’s races.
New paint, a new concessioner, and a good staff make this quite a pleasant way to spend a Sunday afternoon. We do not know if El Charro is back as the concessioner. The menu is limited, but the Burgers, Fries, taquitos, nachos and margaritas are quite tasty. Ms. Karen & I, along with friends, enjoy the ponies at least one Saturday or Sunday afternoon in February or March. Horse racing is exciting, especially if you have a wager on these magnificent animals.
The jockeys and horses are superb athletes and I particularly like seeing them work as a team to defeat their rivals.
Rillito’s racing seasons includes both quarter horse and thoroughbred racing. We always get a table in the historic old clubhouse where we can enjoy food, drink, and camaraderie in comfort. It amazes me how inexpensive the clubhouse is. Particularly considering the grand view of the races with the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains in the background.
You can buy Clubhouse Passes online. However, be aware that they do not include the price of a Clubhouse table. This year a table is $40 & 60, and grandstand tables are $30. General admission is still $5 and Clubhouse admission is $10.
Our friends, Wendy & Richard visiting from Alberta, had never been to any horse race. But it did not take them long to get into the spirit of the event. I lost $$$ on each of the first 4 races. However, it must have been “beginner’s luck” ’cause Richard could not lose.
When all was said and done, Richard made his way back to the car with wads of cash winnings in his pockets. I, on the other hand, won just enough to cover our lunch and drinks. And I consider that a very satisfying day at the races.
The 2023 season runs February 4 – April 2. Go! Enjoy! Rillito Park horse racing … highly recommended.
