Century Downs Racetrack: A Calgary-based Horse Racing Facility Details

Nemes Z. Márió

2026/06/21

Introduction

Located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Century Downs Racetrack is a horse racing facility that offers live thoroughbred racing, slots, and other forms of entertainment to its patrons. Opened in 2017, the track has become a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts and those looking for a unique gaming experience.

Overview and History

Century Downs Racetrack is owned by Century Mile Racetrack & Casino Ltd., a Canadian company that operates several racetracks and casinos across Canada. The facility was built on 300 acres of land in casinocenturydowns.ca Rocky View County, Alberta, with an initial investment of over $100 million. Upon completion, the track featured a one-mile dirt oval racing surface, a grandstand seating approximately 1,000 spectators, and a large infield area for parking.

In addition to horse racing, Century Downs features a casino with hundreds of slot machines, electronic gaming terminals (EGTs), and table games like blackjack, baccarat, and roulette. The facility also offers various dining options, including a buffet restaurant and several snack bars.

How the Concept Works

Horse racing at Century Downs follows traditional rules and regulations set by Horse Racing Alberta (HRA). The track typically hosts live racing on Fridays and Saturdays during the spring and fall seasons, with approximately 35 to 40 races per year. Thoroughbred horses are transported from other Canadian tracks and international locations for competition.

Racing events can be divided into several categories:

1. Allowance : Horses of any age or sex competing in a specific distance range.
2. Non-Winners : Unsuccessful horses of any age or sex racing within a specific distance range.
3. Maidens : Unraced three-year-old Thoroughbreds competing over 7 furlongs.

Century Downs also offers on-track and off-track wagering, allowing bettors to place wagers on horse races taking place locally and internationally.

Types of Racing

In addition to thoroughbred racing, Century Downs hosts various forms of events:

1. Quarter Horse Racing : Thoroughbreds are not suited for short distances; Quarter Horses excel in shorter sprints.
2. Cobalt Racing : A variant where a lead rider carries the maximum weight on their back while two other riders carry much lighter weights, creating a more competitive and thrilling event.

Century Downs’ racing program is also subject to seasonal changes:

• Winter (January-February): Live thoroughbred racing
• Spring (March-April): Quarter horse racing
• Summer (June-July)
• Fall (August-September)

Regulatory Environment

As a licensed racetrack in Alberta, Century Downs must adhere to provincial and national regulations. This includes:

1. Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC) jurisdiction: Ensures compliance with gaming laws, regulations, and responsible gaming practices.
2. Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA): Oversees racing regulation in Canada.

Century Downs has a Memorandum of Understanding with the Calgary Humane Society for animal welfare concerns and addresses local community needs through volunteer initiatives like Adopt-a-Family.

Advantages and Limitations

Key benefits to Century Downs patrons include:

• Affordable general admission fees
• Convenient transportation options (via public transit or ride-hailing services)
• Friendly, knowledgeable staff

Drawbacks might include limited seating capacity for live racing events and potential environmental concerns due to increased traffic around the facility.

Century Downs offers a mix of traditional horse racing, gaming opportunities, and dining experiences that appeal to various audiences. While its history in Calgary has been relatively short-lived compared to other racing facilities across Canada or internationally, it continues to establish itself as a popular destination for entertainment and leisure activities.

In Conclusion

By learning about the specifics regarding Century Downs Racetrack, those who are interested can make informed decisions when planning their visit there.