Live Racing Returns to Grants Pass Downs in 2026

Live racing has returned to Grants Pass Downs at the Josephine County Fairgrounds, with the track’s 2026 fall meet continuing through October 12.

The 10-day season includes a series of Quarter Horse stakes and trials, led by the $30,000-added Far West Futurity Finals on closing day. The Far West Futurity Consolation will also be contested October 12.

The Quarter Horse stakes schedule begins September 20 with the Far West Futurity trials. The 10 fastest qualifiers will advance to the 400-yard final.

2026 Quarter Horse Stakes Schedule

September 20: Far West Futurity Trials
September 27: Autumn Derby Trials
October 4: The Memorial — $15,000 Added
October 11: Autumn Derby — $20,000 Added
October 12: Far West Futurity Finals — $30,000 Added
October 12: Far West Futurity Consolation — $14,000

The Memorial is open to 3-year-olds and older at 350 yards. The Autumn Derby, which includes $15,000 from the Oregon Quarter Horse Racing Association, is for 3-year-olds at 400 yards. The Far West Futurity Finals will feature 2-year-olds competing at 400 yards.

The remaining fall racing dates are September 20, 21, 27 and 28 and October 4, 5, 11 and 12. Post times vary between 1, 4 and 5 p.m.

Horsemen were permitted to move into the grounds beginning September 5, with training opening September 8. A clocker is available for timed workouts. Stall and RV park applications are available through Grants Pass Downs. Coggins tests are now required every 12 months by order of the Oregon Racing Commission.

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Admission is $5 for adults, while children 12 and younger are admitted free. Parking is free, and guests may bring coolers and lawn chairs. Outside alcohol is prohibited.

Grants Pass Downs, also known as the Don Jackson Racing Facility, has hosted pari-mutuel racing at the Josephine County Fairgrounds since 1968.

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