Thunder Plains Park Set to Host Historic Races Starting in August
Horse racing will make its return to Wyoming in 2025, with the Wyoming Gaming Commission officially approving Thunder Plains Park, a new mile-long racetrack set to open in Laramie County. The track, located just 10 miles east of Cheyenne, will be the state’s first and only full-sized horse racing facility.
The approval, granted on Friday, paves the way for live racing events to begin in August 2025, marking a major milestone for the state’s racing industry.
A Major Investment in Wyoming’s Horse Racing Future
Thunder Plains Park, operated by Cowboy Racing LLC, has been a major undertaking. With more than $6 million already invested into the track, Cowboy Racing has worked diligently to bring this ambitious project to life. The track required moving a staggering 376,000 cubic yards of dirt to create the mile-long oval course, which is 80 feet wide at its narrowest point. This design allows for 12 horses to race side by side, a feature that will make the races even more thrilling for fans and participants alike.
While Cowboy Racing had initially hoped to begin racing sooner, their original timeline hit a snag when the Wyoming Gaming Commission reviewed their application in July. The commission determined that some of the approval processes were incomplete, pushing back the anticipated start date. However, with the green light now given, the focus has shifted to finalizing preparations for the 2025 season.
What Makes Thunder Plains Park Special
The mile-long oval at Thunder Plains Park will be the centerpiece of Wyoming’s growing horse racing scene. For years, Wyoming has had limited options for live racing, with most horse racing fans having to travel out of state to watch or participate in the sport. The opening of Thunder Plains Park will change that, providing a dedicated venue for racing enthusiasts and offering local bettors new opportunities to get involved in the action.
The park is also expected to bring a significant economic boost to the region, with more tourists and racing fans likely to visit Cheyenne and Laramie County for events. As a part of the development, Cowboy Racing has also promised to create jobs and contribute to the community, making the track not just a sporting venue, but also a valuable asset to Wyoming’s economy.
The Road Ahead for Wyoming’s Racing Industry
With the approval of Thunder Plains Park, Wyoming’s horse racing industry is poised for a resurgence. While the park will open its doors for live racing next year, the long-term vision includes expanding the events held at the track and fostering greater interest in the sport across the state.
This will likely encourage other investments in the industry, including the development of additional racetracks and wagering opportunities. For now, the focus remains on making Thunder Plains Park a success, with Cowboy Racing confident that the track’s first season will lay the foundation for many more years of racing in Wyoming.
As August 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Laramie County to see how Wyoming’s first full-sized horse racing track transforms the state’s sporting landscape.
