Smarty Jones, the beloved Pennsylvania-bred racehorse, may be best known for his thrilling victories on the track, but his greatest triumph may have come off the racetrack. It was his win at the 2004 Kentucky Derby that sparked a gambling revolution in the Keystone State, leading to the launch of the Pennsylvania gambling industry.
Smarty Jones’ dominance on the track captured the hearts of racing fans across the country. His electrifying performance in the Kentucky Derby, where he surged ahead in the final stretch to win by 2 3/4 lengths, marked him as a true superstar of the sport. But it was his performance in the Pennsylvania Derby later that year that would have a lasting impact on the state’s gambling landscape.
The Pennsylvania Derby, held at Philadelphia Park Racetrack (now Parx Casino and Racing), was already a popular event, but Smarty Jones’ participation in the race gave it a new level of visibility and excitement. The race drew record crowds and generated significant betting revenue, showcasing the potential for growth in the state’s gambling industry.
Inspired by the success of the Pennsylvania Derby and the growing popularity of horse racing in the state, lawmakers seized the opportunity to expand gambling beyond the track. In 2004, the Pennsylvania General Assembly passed the Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, paving the way for the legalization of slot machines at racetracks and the creation of standalone casinos.
The law was a game-changer for Pennsylvania, transforming the state into one of the largest gambling markets in the country. Today, Pennsylvania is home to 12 casinos, including Parx Casino and Racing, which has become a major player in the industry thanks in part to the legacy of Smarty Jones.
The impact of Smarty Jones’ success on the Pennsylvania gambling industry cannot be overstated. His thrilling victories on the track not only captured the imagination of fans but also inspired lawmakers to take action to capitalize on the state’s growing appetite for gambling. Thanks to Smarty Jones, Pennsylvania now boasts a thriving gambling industry that generates billions of dollars in revenue each year.
As we celebrate the legacy of Smarty Jones on the 17th anniversary of his Kentucky Derby win, let us also remember his role in launching the Pennsylvania gambling industry. His triumphs on the track may have inspired awe and admiration, but his impact off the track has left a lasting impression on the state and its residents. Smarty Jones may have been a champion on the racetrack, but his true legacy lies in his role as a catalyst for change and growth in the Pennsylvania gambling industry.
