The fourth time was the charm for veteran 7-year-old Skippylongstocking, who rallied to win the $3 million Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes on Jan. 24 while making his fourth straight start in the Grade 1 event at Gulfstream Park.

From its earliest days on the fringes of American horse racing, Aqueduct Racetrack has persisted through the ups and downs of the sport in New York City. Once a so-called “outlaw,” the “Big A” has played host to Triple Crown winners, legendary battles, and at least one world leader. As we prepare to say goodbye to this Gotham sporting staple later this year, follow the evolution of this track from a rough diamond into a shining gem.

Tenuous Takeoff