Fairmount Park Casino & Racing Celebrates

100 Years with FanDuel St. Louis Derby Sept.19

Celebrating a Century of Horse Racing, Tradition,

and Entertainment with a $250,000 Purse

This month marks a historic milestone for Fairmount Park Casino and Racing in Collinsville, Ill. as it celebrates a century of horse racing, tradition, and entertainment in the Metro East region. On Sept. 19, the venue will honor its centennial with the marquee event of the season, the FanDuel St. Louis Derby.

Founded in September 1925, Fairmount Park began as a track for both thoroughbred and standardbred horse racing. Today, it’s evolved into a premier entertainment destination featuring thoroughbred racing, a restaurant with live entertainment, and a state-of-the-art casino, making it the only “racino” in Illinois and Missouri. More changes are underway as part of the $100 million renovation project set to take place over the next three years. Planned upgrades include new barns and employee dormitories, state-of-the-art equipment, and an expansion expected to generate 200 new jobs for the community.

Vince Gabbert, General Manager of Fairmount Park Casino & Racing, credits the exceptional growth and longevity of Fairmount Park to its loyal fanbase.

“We couldn’t have made it this far without our fans and our community,” said Gabbert. “They’re the reason this track has stood strong for 100 years, even before the casino and gaming were part of it. Their loyalty kept us going. Now, as we look to the future, we’re focused on building something even better for them. Something that will last another century and continue to be a place they can enjoy for generations to come.”

The FanDuel St. Louis Derby, formerly known as the Fairmount Derby, is a testament to that loyalty. Since its debut in 1926, it has remained the fan-favorite race each season, attracting top horses and spectators all over the country. In 2003, the race was renamed the St. Louis Derby and later adopted its current name under a partnership with FanDuel Group.

Now in its fourth year, FanDuel will bring a $250,000 purse to the race. The prize money has elevated the race over the years, attracting out-of-state horses and even Breeders’ Cup qualifiers.

“This is a great race for people who might not have the chance to visit Saratoga or Churchill Downs,” said Gabbert. “It’s an opportunity to see top-tier horses that have recently competed at or are headed towards some of the nation’s premier tracks. We’ve seen contenders from New York, Kentucky, and even California, where last year’s winner came from.”

The centennial celebration runs Sept. 18–20, featuring food trucks, giveaways, family activities, and more. Derby race nominations close Friday, September 5.

F   airmount Park Casino & Racing is a premier entertainment destination located in Collinsville, Illinois, offering live thoroughbred horse racing, a state-of-the-art casino, live entertainment, and dining. Since 1925, Fairmount Park has been a cornerstone of the region’s sports and entertainment scene, hosting a full calendar of races, special events, and promotions that draw guests from across the Midwest. With exceptional dining, gaming, and hospitality,

: Fairmount Park Casino & Racing Celebrates 100 Years with FanDuel St. Louis Derby.

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