Phoenix’s historic horse racing track, Turf Paradise, celebrated its grand reopening Friday under new management.
Live horse racing has returned to the track for its 70th season. Turf Paradise is under new ownership for the first time in 25 years. The previous owner had been wanting to retire and the future of the track was uncertain, prompting rumors about a possible permanent shutdown.
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Turf Paradise in Phoenix on Oct. 19, 2025.
Jean Clare Sarmiento / KJZZ
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It’s a photo finish on Nov. 10, 2025, at Turf Paradise in Phoenix, a race track many didn’t expect would have an opening day this year.
Paul Garcia II / Cronkite News
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Horses are prepared for the next race on opening day at Turf Paradise in Phoenix on Nov. 10, 2025.
Paul Garcia II / Cronkite News
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Turf Paradise in Phoenix in 2015.
Phil Latzman/KJZZ
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Turf Paradise in Phoenix.
Sky Schaudt/KJZZ
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An entrance to Turf Paradise.
Sky Schaudt/KJZZ
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Turf Paradise in north Phoenix on Sept. 20, 2023.
Sky Schaudt/KJZZ
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Signage at Turf Paradise.
Sky Schaudt/KJZZ
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Turf Paradise in Phoenix on Monday, Jan. 29, 2024.
Daniella Trujillo/Cronkite News
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Top of My Game finished third in the first race at Turf Paradise in Phoenix on Monday, Jan. 29, 2024.
Daniella Trujillo/Cronkite News
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Covered escalators at Turf Paradise on Sept. 20, 2023.
Sky Schaudt/KJZZ
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A horse tile mural at the Turf Paradise in north Phoenix.
Sky Schaudt/KJZZ
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The parking lot at Turf Paradise on Sept. 20, 2023.
Sky Schaudt/KJZZ
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Horses, trainers and jockeys at Turf Paradise in Phoenix on Monday, Jan. 29, 2024.
Daniella Trujillo/Cronkite News
Track Announcer Vic Stauffer said fans can expect a new and improved experience.
“We brought in one of the premier track superintendents in the business to take care of the main track and we also have retained a brilliant guy that takes care of our turf course,” Stauffer said. “We’re gonna make it an event and a destination that you can come not necessarily always for horse racing but it might just be a great place to come out and have a great lunch.”
The two-day celebration offers free admission and family friendly activities.
The track, located at 19th Ave and Bell Road, first opened its doors in 1956.
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