Charles Town Races, nestled in the scenic landscapes of West Virginia, boasts a rich history steeped in tradition and excitement. Established in 1933 as Charles Town Race Track, the facility opened during the Great Depression and took a few years to turn a profit. Since then, Charles Town has evolved to continually meet the changing landscape of the sport while preserving its heritage and traditions.

The crown jewel of the Charles Town schedule is the Grade 2 Charles Town Classic. Drawing elite Thoroughbreds from across the nation, this challenging 1 1/8-mile race offers a $1 million purse. The Grade 3 Charles Town Oaks also typically runs on the same race card.  

Other top races celebrate the best of West Virginia’s equine talent. The West Virginia Breeders’ Classics, a tradition since 1987, is a rich, stakes-filled card for statebred horses.  

Charles Town Races, nestled in the scenic landscapes of West Virginia, boasts a rich history steeped in tradition and excitement. Established in 1933 as Charles Town Race Track, the facility opened during the Great Depression and took a few years to turn a profit. Since then, Charles Town has evolved to continually meet the changing landscape of the sport while preserving its heritage and traditions.

The crown jewel of the Charles Town schedule is the Grade 2 Charles Town Classic. Drawing elite Thoroughbreds from across the nation, this challenging 1 1/8-mile race offers a $1 million purse. The Grade 3 Charles Town Oaks also typically runs on the same race card.  

Other top races celebrate the best of West Virginia’s equine talent. The West Virginia Breeders’ Classics, a tradition since 1987, is a rich, stakes-filled card for statebred horses.