Groundbreaking Announcement: Revolutionary Racing Unveils Plans for Cutting-Edge Quarter Horse Racetrack in Boyd County
In a move that promises to transform the equestrian landscape of Kentucky, Revolutionary Racing has announced the official plans for a state-of-the-art quarter horse racetrack in Boyd County. Amidst the backdrop of a rainy day that would test the mettle of even the most seasoned "mudders," the company's chairman unveiled the ambitious project, setting the stage for a thrilling new chapter in the region's rich racing heritage.Unlocking the Potential of Kentucky's Equine Powerhouse
Unveiling the Sandy Ridge Racetrack
Revolutionary Racing's chairman, Larry Lucas, revealed the construction of a 5/8-mile oval track called Sandy Ridge, set to host quarter horse races as early as 2026, pending approval from the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation. The $10 million facility will be specifically designed for quarter horse racing, built on 182 acres behind Sandy's Gaming. The initial plans for a J-track have been revised, with the decision to construct a full oval track in response to feedback from the Quarter Horse Racing Association and other stakeholders.Fostering Collaboration and Community Engagement
The announcement of the Sandy Ridge project has been met with enthusiasm from local officials and industry leaders. Jeremy Holbrook, one of three Boyd County commissioners, praised the partnership, stating, "This is going to be an incredible future facility. Thank you to Sandy's for continuing to grow this dream and this vision for our local people, local employees and local events." The collaborative approach has been a hallmark of the project, with Lucas emphasizing the importance of "working together" throughout the process.Expanding the Equine Ecosystem
In addition to the racetrack, the Sandy Ridge facility will feature a year-round training facility, catering to the needs of the region's equine athletes. The project's scope extends beyond just racing, as Lucas envisions the venue hosting a variety of events, including concerts and farmers markets, further enhancing the community's entertainment and recreational offerings.Tapping into Kentucky's Racing Legacy
The Kentucky Quarter Horse Racing Association, represented by its President, Christina Sowders, expressed immense excitement about the project, stating, "This is the most exciting day for us. This has been a work from our heart for many years. Thank you to Sandy's and Revolutionary Racing for making all this possible. Kentucky's known for its fast horses and we're going to bring the fastest horses in the world right here to Sandy Ridge to race. We couldn't be more excited."Driving Economic Growth and Community Development
The Sandy Ridge project is poised to have a significant impact on the local economy and community development. Boyd County Judge-Executive Eric Chaney identified entertainment as a key missing piece for the county's success, and Lucas believes the new racetrack will help fill that void, complementing other recent developments in the region. The project's economic benefits extend beyond just the racetrack, with months of infrastructure planning dedicated to addressing water, power, sewer, and transportation needs.A Vision for the Future
As the groundbreaking approaches, Revolutionary Racing and its partners are confident in the long-term growth potential of Boyd County and the tri-state area. Lucas emphasized the company's belief in the region's future, stating, "We believe in long-term growth of Boyd County and the (tri-state) area." The Sandy Ridge project represents a significant investment in the community, poised to become a hub of equestrian excellence and a catalyst for further economic and cultural development.