The thunder and excitement of the race has long drawn visitors to the Fair Grounds, where legendary horses including Black Gold, Whirlaway, and Risen Star have raced to victory. The history of one of America's oldest Thoroughbred horse-racing tracks is chronicled here through interviews, rare photographs, and archival lithographs. Since 1872, the New Orleans Fair Grounds has been home to exhibitions, boxing matches, baseball games, and even special events like ostrich racing. Now owned by Churchill Downs, Inc., the Fair Grounds has withstood hurricanes, fire, and bankruptcy and stands today as a vibrant sports and festival venue in a historic New Orleans neighborhood.