FAQ

General

What is Thunder Plains

Thunder Plains Park is an upcoming horse racing and equestrian facility located in Laramie County, Wyoming. It features the state’s first mile-long racetrack, complete with a modern safety rail. Long-term, the facility aims to become a premier regional destination for horse racing and equestrian events.

When will races start?

The first race at Thunder Plains Park is scheduled for summer of 2025.

Why is Thunder Plains Park being built?

Thunder Plains Park will revitalize Wyoming’s horse racing industry and provide a boost to the local economy by creating numerous jobs and supporting local businesses. With its high-quality track and focus on safety, the facility is expected to attract higher caliber horses and increase purses, drawing both visitors and revenue to the state.

How is Thunder Plains different from the other tracks / operators in Wyoming?

Thunder Plains Park will have Wyoming’s first mile-long racetrack and be the only racetrack in the state to feature a safety rail. It is Wyoming-owned and operated, with profits reinvested back into the facility and the community.

How do I stay up to date?

Stay up to date on progress by subscribing to the newsletter in the footer of this page, as well as checking out the News page and watching or listening to the Thunder Plains Podcast. Also follow Thunder Plains on our social channels: Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok

Horse Care & Safety

What is Thunder Plains doing to live up to it's commitment to safety?

  • Constructing a mile-long track, a length considered safer for horses than shorter options.
  • Including a safety rail.
  • Collaborating with industry experts like Dennis Moore, a renowned track surface specialist, to ensure a safe, high-quality racing surface.
  • Partnering with the Wyoming All Breeds Racing Association (WABRA) to uphold high standards of horse care.

What is a safety rail?

The flexible, inward-tilted panels attached to the top of the rail protect jockeys from making direct contact with the rail and guide falls away from the track and oncoming horses. Additionally, the rail’s supporting posts are set two feet from the track, doubling the required offset and creating more space for fallen riders to avoid oncoming horses.

Community Support & Economic Impact

How will Thunder Plains support the local community?

Thunder Plains will create hundreds of jobs in Laramie County, particularly during the racing season, while generating significant tax revenue for the state, county, and city. By attracting visitors from neighboring states, it will boost tourism and provide valuable support to local businesses. Additionally, it will serve as a central hub for the equestrian community, hosting a variety of events and activities.

How is this project being funded?

Thunder Plains is a privately funded venture supported by local ownership and industry partners. 

Unlike other tracks in Wyoming, a significant portion of the profits generated by Thunder Plains will be reinvested back into the facility and the local community. This includes creating a world-class equestrian center, promoting Wyoming’s horse industry, and supporting local businesses.

Can we be sure Thunder Plains won’t be a tax burden on local residents and that financial projections are accurate?

The project is being developed with no public funding. Thunder Plains’ financial projections have been reviewed by industry experts, including those at First Racing, a company with a successful track record in horse racing and gaming. 

The managing partners are committed to responsible financial management and will regularly communicate the project’s progress and economic impact to the community.

Expansion

How will Thunder Plains be more than just a racetrack?

Thunder Plains aims to be a vibrant community hub, offering year-round recreational and entertainment opportunities beyond racing events. 

The development of an equestrian center will cater to a broader range of horse enthusiasts and provide educational opportunities for the community.

What are the long-term plans for Thunder Plains and how will the project adapt to future challenges and opportunities?

Thunder Plains is designed with future expansion in mind. 

The team is committed to adapting to the evolving needs of the community and the horse racing industry. This includes exploring innovative technologies, expanding the range of equestrian activities, and seeking partnerships that enhance the economic and social benefits of the project.

Will the temporary facilities for the first race meet detract from the overall experience?

While the first race meet in 2025 will feature some temporary structures, the essential components, including the mile-long racetrack with safety rail, barns, stalls, and spectator areas will be in place. The focus is on providing a safe, enjoyable experience from the outset, with a permanent grandstand and other amenities to be developed in phases.

When can we expect the permanent structures to be completed?

Updates on the construction timeline for the permanent facilities will be shared regularly with the community.