PHOENIX – James Scully moved to Glendale from Long Island in the early 1980s, and as someone who loves horse racing, has visited Turf Paradise frequently.

“I used to play the trotters in New York, so I was curious to check out the track when we moved here,” said Scully, who said he is eager to visit the Phoenix track this season.

When he does, he’ll see a place that continues to endure despite rumors of shutdowns and past concerns about conditions and horse safety.

Turf Paradise launched its 70th season Nov. 10.

Phoenix businessman Walter Cluer bought 1,400 acres of barren desert, 25 miles north of the Phoenix metropolis, in 1954. What is now Bell Road and 19th Avenue was only unkept dirt roads that led to the track that opened on Jan. 7, 1956.

Fast-forward and Turf Paradise has start

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