On December 29, 1995, the slot facility opened, ushering in the “new era of the grand tradition at Delaware Park.”

In June of 1994, the Delaware General Assembly passed The Horse Racing Redevelopment Act, legalizing video lottery gaming at Delaware tracks. In the summer of 1993, William Rickman, Jr., took over the day-to-day reins of the racetrack and personally took charge of the efforts to seek video lottery legislation. Realizing the track’s existence was in jeopardy, Rickman sought avenues to protect the long-term future of Delaware Park, including efforts for relief legislation in the form of slot machines. The track’s bottom line was marginal and its survival surprised most sceptics. developer of office buildings and parks and a dedicated horse owner, acquired Delaware Park. In 1983, the late William Rickman, Sr., a Rockville, Md. Most importantly, Delaware Park’s gracious hospitality from its dedicated and loyal employees welcomes fans and horsemen. The track is situated in a unique and picturesque country landscape with stately century-old oaks and grassy pastures.

More recently the track has spawned the careers of Afleet Alex, Barbaro, Hard Spun, Eight Belles, and the 2011 Horse-of-the-Year, Havre de Grace. Legends such as Kelso, Buckpasser, Damascus, and Spectacular Bid have been victorious at the Stanton oval. Through seven decades, Delaware Park has consistently offered the best in horse racing. These changes have created the character and atmosphere of Delaware Park, which graciously accommodates the horseplayer, casino guest, sports bettor and golfer. Since its inception in 1937 by William DuPont, Jr., it has undergone many dramatic changes. Website: Delaware Park has walked a long road to get to where it is today. Corporate Name: Delaware Racing Association

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