In a move that has sent shockwaves through the local equine community, the Warren County Agricultural Society's board has voted to evict all 300+ harness racing horses that have long called the fairgrounds their home. The decision to discontinue harness racing at the facility has been attributed to an "overwhelming financial burden," leaving many in the industry scrambling to find a new place to stable and train their beloved horses.

A Tradition Comes to an End: The Fate of Warren County's Harness Racing Legacy

The Eviction Announcement: Horses and Livelihoods at Risk

The Warren County Agricultural Society's decision to evict the harness racing horses has left the local equine community in a state of disarray. Brittany Carlo, who owns 13 horses, expressed her dismay, stating, "We really are left with nothing other than, 'You're an extreme financial burden,' which doesn't add up. That's over $600,000 a year in stall rent. Where is the money going? The bookkeeping is terrible." The impact of this decision extends far beyond the horses themselves, with an estimated 1,000-1,200 people directly affected by the loss of this industry.

The Financial Fallout: Questioning the Fairgrounds' Priorities

The fairgrounds' decision to discontinue harness racing has raised concerns about the financial management of the facility. Brittany Carlo's statement highlights the significant revenue generated by the stall rent, which amounts to over $600,000 annually. However, the fairgrounds' leadership has cited an "overwhelming financial burden" as the reason for the eviction, leaving many to question where this revenue has been allocated. The lack of transparency in the fairgrounds' bookkeeping has only added to the frustration and uncertainty felt by the harness racing community.

The Future of the Warren County Fair: Adapting to Change

Despite the discontinuation of harness racing, the Warren County Agricultural Society has announced plans to move forward with holding the 2025 Warren County Fair. Fair Board President Dana Letner has stated that the fair will continue to be held on the fairgrounds, but the future of the event remains uncertain. The decision to cut back on race dates at the fair has been a trend in the region, with Mercer and Auglaize County fairs also reducing their harness racing offerings over the years.

The Broader Landscape of Harness Racing in Ohio

While the Warren County Fairgrounds is discontinuing its harness racing operations, the sport continues to thrive in other parts of Ohio. The state is home to several other tracks, including Eldorado Scioto Downs, Miami Valley Gaming, Northfield Park, and Hollywood Gaming – Dayton Raceway. These facilities provide alternative venues for harness racing enthusiasts and professionals to continue their passion.

The Enduring Legacy of the Little Brown Jug

One of the most prestigious events in the world of harness racing is the Little Brown Jug, held annually in Delaware, Ohio. This iconic race, first held in 1946, has become the anchor for the Triple Crown of Pacing, which also includes the Cane Pace at Yonkers (N.Y.) Raceway and the Messenger Stake at Roosevelt Raceway in Westbury, N.Y. Last year's Jug winner, Captain Albano, was purchased for $150,000 as a yearling and went on to earn over $1.2 million in career earnings, showcasing the enduring appeal and significance of this prestigious event.As the Warren County Fairgrounds closes the chapter on its harness racing legacy, the broader equine community in Ohio remains resilient, with other tracks and events continuing to uphold the rich traditions and competitive spirit of this beloved sport. While the loss of the Warren County facility is undoubtedly a setback, the passion and dedication of the harness racing enthusiasts will undoubtedly ensure that the hoofbeats continue to echo across the state for years to come.