Alberta ranks as the fourth largest and most populous province in Canada. Although it is landlocked like Saskatchewan, its landscape is dotted with approximately 600 lakes that enhance its natural beauty. The province boasts the world's third-largest confirmed oil reserves, surpassed only by Venezuela and Saudi Arabia, contributing to one of the highest GDPs per capita in the nation.
Seventy-five percent of Alberta's residents are concentrated in the Calgary-Edmonton corridor, which includes the province's two largest cities. Tourists from around the globe are drawn to Alberta’s stunning mountain lakes, canyons, waterfalls, protected areas, national parks, hiking trails, historical sites, and picturesque parks.
In the remote prairies of Alberta, wild horses can still be seen grazing. Additionally, the renowned Calgary Stampede, which began in 1912, features the world's largest rodeo alongside thrilling chuck wagon races. Horse racing, including thoroughbred, standardbred, and quarter horse events, enjoys immense popularity, as evidenced by the always bustling racetracks in the region.
Century Mile Racetrack and Casino
The Century Mile Racetrack and Casino replaced Northlands Park, which was the oldest racetrack in Canada, having opened in 1900 in Edmonton, the provincial capital. Northlands Park traditionally featured harness racing in the spring and fall, with thoroughbred racing taking place during the summer season.
Since 1956, it hosted the Canadian Derby, the second leg of the Western Canadian Triple Crown. In 2016, plans were revealed to close the racetrack and repurpose the land for a city festival. Although Edmonton City Council did not initially approve this proposal, it was later given the green light after the Horse Racing Alberta Association announced a tender for a new racetrack, which was won by Century Casinos. The track then closed in January 2019, and racing began at a new track in April. Century Mile Racetrack is located south of Edmonton, near the international airport.
The Grade 3 Canadian Derby continues to be held there, and in 2022, the National Driving Championship for standardbred horses was held, an 8-race series. The winner of the series represents Canada at the World Driving Championship. In 2023, the event was held at racetracks in the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, and the 2024 winner will go to the World Championship in New Zealand.
These races are the highlight of the Century Mile racing calendar, featuring the esteemed Century Casino Oaks for three-year-old fillies and the Northlands Park Distaff Handicap, where the nation's top horses compete. From May to September, the focus shifts to thoroughbred and quarter horse racing, while harness racing takes center stage from September onward. The racing schedule is bustling, drawing visitors not only for the exhilarating races but also for the rich entertainment offerings, betting opportunities, and outstanding facilities.
Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
It is actually a twin of the Century Mile Racetrack, located in Balzac, near the Calgary metropolitan area. The two racetracks are owned by the same owner, the real estate investment trust Vici Properties. The fund owns 54 casinos, racetracks and hotels in the United States and Canada. Until 2008, horse racing was held at Stampede Park in Southern Alberta, it was a major centre where racing enthusiasts from all over the area came. After 121 years of successful racing, the racetrack was decided to close, leaving only chuck wagon races here; a track that meets modern requirements was needed. At the same time, construction began on Century Downs in Balzac, but race fans and fans had to wait a long 7 years until the track of the new racetrack was ready to welcome athletes and spectators. So the then operating Northlands Park racetrack was an outlet for regular visitors to Stampede Park. Finally, in 2015, racing returned to Calgary, a new racetrack opened, where thoroughbred, quarter horse and harness racing is held year-round, visitors are entertained by a nearby casino, there is a large selection of slot machines, restaurants and cafés.
Rocky Mountain Turf Club
The Lethbridge & District Fairgrounds is home to the Rocky Mountain Turf Club. Lethbridge is the fourth-largest city in Alberta and the third-largest city in terms of population. It is located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, not far from Calgary. The beautiful views attract tourists here, and the races held at the racetrack attract crowds of horse lovers and bettors. Nearby there is a casino, a bar, and many event venues.
Horse racing in Lethbridge plays a crucial role in the local economy, contributing approximately $40 million in annual revenue, with an average daily purse reaching around $25,000 in 2012. Horses bred in Alberta also benefit from a 20% bonus on their prize winnings.
In addition to traditional horse racing, the Rocky Mountain racetrack hosts the exciting Warrior Relay event. In this unique competition, riders race thoroughbred horses around the track, switching mounts at full speed after each lap, culminating in two transitions and the use of three different horses. The winner is the rider who crosses the finish line first.
Another noteworthy event is the Doggy Derby, which made its debut at the track in May 2024. This event was organized as a fundraiser for dog and cat food. It featured the Astro Insurance dachshund race, followed by a fashion show where 20 impeccably dressed dogs paraded in front of judges, with some being carried by their owners.
Evergreen Park
North of Edmonton, in the suburb of Grande Prairie, is the Evergreen Park multi-functional exhibition complex. It is located away from roads, hidden by a wall of forest, which makes staying here especially pleasant, and communication with nature begins immediately after leaving the car.
It hosts thoroughbred and quarter horse races, rodeos and chuckwagon races. A grandstand for 2,700 people, restaurants and lounges, conference rooms, pavilions for events, as well as equestrian trails passing through picturesque places of Northern Alberta attract fans of racing and active recreation.
The extreme Evergreen Mountain Trail Race is held here. The course goes through rocky sections, with riders gaining about 1,000 feet of elevation, reaching 8,400 feet. The total length of the course is over 9 miles.
Millarville Racetrack & Market
Located just southwest of Calgary, the Millarville Racetrack and Farmers Market has been a hub for horse racing since 1995, serving as a local alternative to the Stampede. Today, it hosts country fairs, an annual half-marathon, and features exciting events such as chuck wagon and chariot racing for equestrian enthusiasts.
For those who appreciate the outdoors, a range of horse trails, camp grounds, stables, and riding areas make it an ideal destination for both horse lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.