The future of Gulfstream Park is unclear after Belinda Stronach, the CEO of 1/ST, spilled the truth about its location while being interviewed by NBC Sports at the Pegasus World Cup. Stronach straight-up said that Gulfstream’s spot in the heart of the city isn’t doing any favors for the horses anymore. “The fact is that Gulfstream Park is now in a very dense, urban setting, and that’s not great for horses, ultimately,” she conceded. Though she remains fully committed to South Florida racing in the long-term, her words have sparked the racing world’s imagination, asking what comes next for the historic track after 86 years of operation?

With discussions of change and a bill that will bring change, the horse racing industry is under pressure. Stronach and 1/ST president Aidan Butler are trying to calm the nerves saying that they are not going to give up on maintaining the racing scene in South Florida. “What kind of situation can we collectively come up with together that would be in the best interest of racing in Florida and create something that is sustainable?” Stronach asked, hoping to bring the community together for the future. But despite the good vibes, a protest kicked off at the Pegasus World Cup, making it clear not everyone’s on board with the ride ahead.

January 26th saw Hallandale Beach transform into a melting pot of feelings as demonstrators took to the streets outside one of Gulfstream Park’s most successful racing events, the Pegasus World Cup. As reported by Local 10, these passionate souls were protesting against a bill which has created the division of animal lovers and racing enthusiasts like never before. The bill, when enacted, would do away with the law that compelled track owners to stage live thoroughbred races to be eligible for a gaming license, which could redefine the future of Gulfstream Park.

To animal rights activists, this was not just a fight in the legal courts, but a fight to give a voice to the voiceless. These groups have always had a bone to pick with horse racing, which they argue disguises aspects of animal abuse. It is because there are only two racetracks in the state of Florida where thoroughbreds are allowed; Tampa Bay Downs and Gulfstream Park. However, the only racetrack with a casino is Gulfstream, and it is right in the line of fire of this fiery debate. To put it mildly, the drama off the track was just as exciting as the one on it!

Gulfstream Park is pretty much Florida’s playground, blending high-speed horses, thrilling races, casinos, and shopping—all in one spot. Located in Hallandale Beach, it’s the go-to destination for anyone who loves the thrill of Thoroughbred racing and a little extra fun. Open all year round, this place is buzzing with action, especially during epic events like the Championship Meet, and the legendary Pegasus World Cup.

Then you have the Royal Palm Meet from April to September and the Flamingo Festival Meet from October to November, each giving a different feel. Well, if you are gambling on the horses or simply enjoying the Florida sunshine, Gulfstream has it all. Of course, people are angry about its future–but there is still a chance to preserve it!

Horse Racing and its future!

Aidan Butler, the big guy at 1/ST, who owns Gulfstream, offered a glimpse of how they are all about collaboration and looking for interesting ways to approach things in the future. He explained that in the state of Maryland, 1/ST continued the show by holding the races at the Laurel Park while the Pimlico undergoes some renovations. It shows that 1/ST is completely willing to collaborate to ensure horse racing continues to exist, but also to be strategic.

However, Butler was quick to explain—there is no cause for concern about Gulfstream’s prospects. No one is in a hurry to shut the track down, and they are all about progress in the right direction. They’re all about preserving the horse racing sport in Florida and working with all to make it possible. So, no worries, they’re on it, thinking ahead, and ensuring the sport sticks around for the long haul.