History of Hastings Park Racecourse

Establishment of Hastings Park and the Origins of the Racecourse

Hastings Racecourse, Vancouver's longest-running professional sports venue, traces its origins to the late 19th century. In 1888, the Vancouver City Council sought to establish a public park in the Hastings Townsite, a provincial property outside the city's jurisdiction at the time. The provincial government granted 160 acres for this purpose, and the land was designated as East Park, intended for public recreation and enjoyment. Two years later, in 1890, a group of local citizens, recognising the growing popularity of horse racing, petitioned the City for a small portion of East Park to be allocated for a racetrack. This request led to the leasing of 16 acres to the newly formed British Columbia Jockey Club, an organisation composed of some of the city's most influential figures, including city council members, prominent businessmen, and a former Lieutenant Governor.

The Rise of Horse Racing at Hastings Park

By 1892, a racetrack had been constructed, and regular horse races quickly became a popular attraction. However, accessing the track in those early years was a challenge. The streetcar system did not extend to the area until the early 1900s, so racegoers had to make the journey on rough, undeveloped roads by carriage or opt for a specially chartered boat on race days. Despite these logistical hurdles, the racecourse thrived, with horses frequently shipped from Victoria by steamer to compete in the events. As the 20th century progressed, the racecourse's popularity continued to grow, establishing itself as a central hub for both the city's social elite and sports enthusiasts. In 1910, the park became the home of an annual agricultural fair, marking the beginning of Hastings Park as a major venue for public entertainment. The same period also saw the opening of Happyland in 1926, an amusement park that would later evolve into the well-known Playland.

Expansion, Wartime Use, and Modern Developments

The mid-20th century brought significant developments and challenges to Hastings Racecourse. During World War II, the racecourse was repurposed for a grim task: it served as a holding site for over 8,000 Japanese Canadians who were forcibly removed from their homes and interned in camps across British Columbia. The racecourse grounds were used to detain these individuals and confiscated vehicles were parked there, later auctioned off without the owners' knowledge.

After the war, the racecourse underwent major renovations. In the 1950s, the racing oval was expanded to its current five-eighths of a mile, which required the demolition of several PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) structures, including the original Giant Dipper roller coaster. The grandstand was rebuilt in 1965, and by 1968, night racing was introduced, further boosting the venue's appeal.

Despite these efforts, the racecourse saw a decline in attendance in the following decades. However, new events such as movie nights and wiener dog races have attracted a younger audience, helping to revitalise the historic venue. In 2012, Hastings Racecourse gained international recognition when jockey Mario Gutierrez, who began his career at Hastings after emigrating from Mexico, won the prestigious Santa Anita Derby, Kentucky Derby, and Preakness Stakes. This achievement brought newfound attention to the racecourse and highlighted its ongoing relevance in the world of horse racing.

The Modern Era and Continued Legacy

Today, Hastings Racecourse remains a vibrant part of Vancouver's community, offering live horse racing, special events, and a variety of entertainment options. Operated by the Great Canadian Gaming Corporation since 2004, the racecourse continues to balance its rich history with modern amenities, making it a unique destination for both locals and visitors. The racecourse hosts numerous graded events annually, including the British Columbia Derby, Ballerina Stakes, and BC Premier's Handicap, attracting top Thoroughbreds from across the region. The annual British Columbia Cup Day, held on the first Monday in August, remains a fan favourite, featuring a series of stakes races that draw large crowds.

Despite its challenges, Hastings Racecourse has maintained its status as a beloved institution in Vancouver, offering a mix of tradition, excitement, and scenic beauty that is unmatched in the world of horse racing. As the racecourse continues to evolve, it remains a testament to Vancouver's enduring passion for sport and entertainment, ensuring that it will remain a cherished part of the city's cultural landscape for generations to come.