La Mesa Park facts for kids
| Location | Raton, New Mexico |
|---|---|
| Date opened | 1946 |
| Date closed | 1992 |
| Race type | Thoroughbred Quarter Horse |
| Course type | Dirt |
| Notable races | Land of Enchantment Futurity |
| Live racing handle | $11,967,687 (annual record 1977) |
| Attendance | 4,892 (daily record 1965) |
La Mesa Park was a special place in Raton, New Mexico, where fast horses raced. It was a horse racing track that opened way back in 1946. This track was the very first of its kind in New Mexico.
Contents
What Was La Mesa Park?
La Mesa Park was a popular spot for horse racing fans. People would gather to watch amazing horses compete. The track hosted two main types of races. These were called Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse races.
Types of Horse Races
Thoroughbred Racing
In Thoroughbred racing, horses are bred for speed and endurance. They run longer distances on the track. These races are often seen in big events like the Kentucky Derby.
Quarter Horse Racing
Quarter Horse racing is a bit different. These horses are known for their incredible speed over short distances. They are super fast for about a quarter of a mile. That's how they got their name!
A Special Place in History
La Mesa Park made history when it opened in 1946. It was the first official horse racing track in New Mexico. For many years, it was a big part of the community. People loved to visit and cheer for their favorite horses.
The track operated for several decades. It saw many exciting races and set records. Sadly, La Mesa Park closed its gates in 1992. Even though it's gone, it remains an important part of New Mexico's sports history.
