You’ve probably heard the rumors. For a while there, it felt like Turf Paradise was destined to become just another Phoenix parking lot or a block of luxury condos. People were basically eulogizing the place. But then, things shifted. Not only is the track still breathing, it’s actually in the middle of a pretty massive 102-day comeback season.
If you're looking for the Turf Paradise race track schedule, you have to throw out the old "weekend only" mindset. This isn't Churchill Downs. It’s a desert diamond with a rhythm all its own.
The 2025-2026 Schedule Breakdown
The current season kicked off on November 10, 2025, and it’s slated to run all the way through May 2, 2026. Honestly, the schedule is kind of a dream for the "lunch break" bettor but might surprise the casual fan who only shows up on Saturdays.
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Live racing primarily happens Monday through Thursday. Yeah, you read that right. While the rest of the world is at the office, the horses are thundering down the stretch in North Phoenix. Post time is usually set for 12:30 PM on these weekdays. If you’re planning a visit, don't just roll up on a random Friday expecting to see the gates fly open; you’ll likely just find the simulcast screens glowing in a quiet room.
That said, there are exceptions. They do some "special event" Saturdays, particularly when the big national races are happening. The whole season actually builds toward its climax on May 2, which coincides with the Kentucky Derby. That’s the day the place truly erupts.
Why the Midweek Focus?
It’s all about the "simulcast" market. By racing on Mondays and Tuesdays, Turf Paradise becomes one of the few live games in town for bettors across the country. When the big tracks in New York or Florida are dark, the eyes of the wagering world turn to 19th Avenue and Bell Road. It’s a business move that keeps the purses competitive and the lights on.
Key Dates You Shouldn't Miss
While the daily grind of claiming races keeps the engine humming, there are specific days on the Turf Paradise race track schedule that bring out the heavy hitters.
- The Cotton Fitzsimmons Mile: Named after the legendary Phoenix Suns coach, this is usually a highlight for turf specialists.
- The Phoenix Gold Cup: If you like raw speed, this is the one. It’s a sprint that usually attracts the fastest horses in the Southwest.
- The Turf Paradise Derby: A local stepping stone for three-year-olds dreaming of bigger things.
- Kentucky Derby Day (May 2, 2026): This is the season finale. It’s loud, it’s crowded, and it’s the best people-watching in Arizona.
The track is currently operating under a new vibe. After 25 years under Jerry Simms, the reins were handed over to Gary Hartunian (Landmark LA Capital Group) and general manager Tom Ludt. They’ve been pouring money into the place—new paint, better landscaping, and a general "cleaning up of the joints." It feels less like a relic and more like a venue again.
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What’s the Vibe at the Track?
If you haven't been lately, it's sort of a mix of "Old Vegas" and "Arizona casual." You’ve got the Clubhouse upstairs where people are actually wearing collared shirts and eating off real plates. Then you’ve got the apron down by the rail where the die-hards are clutching their racing forms and shouting at the jockeys.
The track itself is a one-mile dirt oval with a seven-furlong turf course inside it. Seeing a race on the grass in the middle of the desert is still one of the coolest visual contradictions in sports.
Admissions and Entry
Honestly, it’s one of the cheapest professional sports experiences left. General admission is usually just a few bucks, and parking is plentiful.
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Pro Tip: If you want the best seat in the house without the Clubhouse price tag, head to the "Park Pavilion" or grab a spot near the winner's circle. You can practically feel the wind as the pack thunders by.
The Ownership Shift: Why It Matters
The reason people got the Turf Paradise race track schedule confused last year was the constant "will they, won't they" regarding the track's sale. At one point, it was almost sold to a developer. The racing community was in a panic.
But the new lease agreement—a two-year deal with options to extend—basically saved the industry in Arizona. Without Turf Paradise, the dozens of Off-Track Betting (OTB) sites across the state would have nothing to broadcast. It’s an ecosystem. The 38+ OTB locations from Yuma to Prescott rely on these Monday-Thursday races to keep the local betting handle alive.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
- Check the Daily Racing Form: Before you go, look at the "overnights" or the entries on the Turf Paradise website. Field sizes can vary. A 10-horse field is way more fun to bet on than a 5-horse scramble.
- Bring Cash: While there are ATMs and some spots take cards, the betting windows and the smaller concession stands move way faster if you have bills in hand.
- Watch the Equine Pool: If you get a chance to peek at the backside, the track has a massive $125,000 equine swimming pool. It’s used for therapy and training. It’s a huge reason why the horse health stats at Turf Paradise have actually been improving, with a death rate in 2025 that was lower than the national average ($0.73$ per 1,000 starts vs $1.11$).
- Mind the Weather: It’s Phoenix. Even in January, that sun on the apron can be intense. The grandstand offers shade, but if you’re standing by the rail, wear a hat.
The schedule is set. The horses are in the stalls. Whether you're there for the $17,000 Maiden Special Weights or just a cheap beer and a bit of sunshine, Turf Paradise is proving that it’s not ready to be paved over just yet.
If you're planning to go, aim for a Wednesday. The crowds are thin, the action is fast, and you can usually get a seat right at the finish line without fighting for space. Keep an eye on the official site for any last-minute "scratches" or time changes, especially as the spring heat starts to creep in toward May.