History
The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, founded by the Saratoga Springs Racing Association in 1950, was originally located in the Canfield Casino.
The museum moved into its own building, across the street from Saratoga Race Course, in August of 1955. A new wing was added in 1957 to house a collection of art works related to horse racing.
Financed by a $6 million fund drive, a major renovation and modernization project began on Sept. 1, 1987. The museum was closed during the project. It reopened on July 14, 1989.
A 100-member committee, made up of representatives from the Thoroughbred racing media, elects new members annually in three categories: Jockeys, trainers, and horses.
A horse can be nominated only after being retired for five years. Jockeys and trainers don't have to be retired, but they must have been active for at least 15 years and 25 years, respectively, to be considered.