For generations of racing fans in Arizona, Turf Paradise has been more than just a track. It has been a place where families gather, horses become legends, and the desert backdrop frames some of the sport’s most thrilling moments. In recent years, however, uncertainty about the track’s future left many wondering if live racing in Phoenix might fade away.
Now, after months of speculation and change, the 2025–2026 meet is officially back on the calendar. With a full season, new leadership, and visible improvements, Turf Paradise is preparing to welcome horses, jockeys, and fans with renewed energy.
A Full Season Ahead: 102 Days of Live Racing
Arizona fans will have plenty to cheer about this year. Turf Paradise is set to host a 102-day live racing season, beginning November 10, 2025, and running through May 2, 2026. That’s a commitment to nearly six months of racing action; a welcome return after recent disruptions.
The calendar will feature a mix of Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse races, honoring Arizona’s dual legacy in both breeds. For longtime followers, the return of a full schedule feels like a statement: Turf Paradise isn’t just surviving; it’s intent on thriving.
The confidence behind this season also strengthens Phoenix’s role as the state’s racing hub, drawing trainers, owners, and fans from across the Southwest.
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The Derby Spotlight: Arizona’s Big Day in February
Among the season’s highlights, none looms larger than the Turf Paradise Derby. Traditionally run in February, this marquee race for three-year-olds provides Arizona fans with a chance to see rising stars on the cusp of national recognition.
It’s more than a single event; Derby Day is a celebration. From the crowds lining the grandstand to the tension building in the paddock, the energy mirrors racing’s biggest stages. Add in supporting races like the $60,000 Hasta La Vista Handicap and the $60,000 Turf Paradise Open Spring Futurity, and the day becomes a showcase of Arizona’s racing spirit.
Later in the season, Turf Paradise will host a full day of live racing and simulcasting for the Kentucky Derby, connecting local fans with one of the sport’s most iconic traditions.
Improvements on the Track and Beyond
Racing is at its best when safety and quality go hand in hand, and Turf Paradise has made upgrades with both in mind. Over the summer of 2025, crews laid down new dirt to create a smoother, safer main track. Aging barns, some dating back decades, received new roofs and structural reinforcements, offering better conditions for horses and horsemen alike.
The work didn’t stop there. Major improvements include:
- New dirt surface on the main track for consistency and safety,
- Repairs to rails on both the main and turf courses,
- Renovated jockeys’ facilities with upgraded showers and saunas,
- Investment in new track maintenance equipment,
- Planned inspection by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) before training begins in October.
For fans, these upgrades mean more than just a cosmetic facelift. They represent a commitment to longevity and a safer environment for the athletes, both equine and human, who make racing possible.
A New Era of Leadership at Turf Paradise
Change is rarely easy, but at Turf Paradise, a leadership shift is offering cautious optimism. Longtime owner Jerry Simms has leased the track and its off-track betting network to an LLC headed by California horse owner and real estate executive Gary Hartunian.
At the helm of daily operations is veteran racing executive Tom Ludt, now serving as general manager. Ludt’s experience across racing organizations nationwide brings credibility and a steady hand to the transition.
The lease runs for two years with an option to extend, giving Hartunian and Ludt time to stabilize operations and consider long-term plans. While the possibility of relocating to a new site has been mentioned, the immediate focus is on making the Phoenix facility the best it can be. This means added stability and the promise of continued live racing in Arizona’s largest city.
Trainers, Horses, and Fresh Competition to Watch
Excitement is already building in the barns. Turf Paradise has received a wave of stall applications, with a notable influx from trainers relocating from Northern California. This shift brings fresh rivalries and new bloodlines into Arizona racing, expanding the diversity of the fields.
For fans, the arrival of unfamiliar names and horses is a chance to discover new favorites. Watching a lightly raced colt make his Arizona debut or following a seasoned trainer establish a foothold in Phoenix adds intrigue to every race day.
Of course, keeping track of which horses are hot, which trainers are on a roll, and which newcomers to watch can feel like a challenge. That’s why many fans turn to resources like daily horse racing picks, which make it easier to follow contenders not just at Turf Paradise but across the national circuit.
Why This Season Matters for Arizona Racing Fans
For the local community, the return of a strong meet is about more than numbers on a calendar. Turf Paradise has long been a place where racing fans from all walks of life gather. Families make traditions out of weekend outings, longtime fans reconnect with the sport, and newcomers discover the thrill of a photo finish under the desert sun.
The meet also sustains Arizona’s horsemen, from breeders and trainers to jockeys and grooms. With state funding now supporting local breeding through the Arizona Breeders’ Award, the ecosystem of Arizona racing is being reinforced from the ground up.
In short, this season is not just about races; it’s about community, continuity, and pride in Arizona’s sporting culture. From the grassroots breeders to the passionate fans who fill the stands, there is an enduring belief that the sport belongs in the state.
The 2025–2026 Turf Paradise season isn’t just a schedule of races; it’s a statement of intent. Racing in Arizona may bend, but it refuses to break.
