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Ghosts Of Open-wheel Racing In Arlington
UTA exhibit uncovers the forgotten history of open-wheel racing at Arlington Downs racetrack
Published on Feb. 28, 2026
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As Arlington prepares to host the IndyCar Java House Grand Prix, a new exhibit at the University of Texas at Arlington's Special Collections is shining a light on the city's rich open-wheel racing history. The exhibit, "Uncovered Speed: The Legacy of Open-Wheeled Racing in Arlington," explores the story of Arlington Downs, a former racetrack that hosted AAA Championship Racing events from 1947 to 1950 and was the site of legendary driver Ted Horn's three consecutive national titles.
Why it matters
Arlington Downs was an important part of the city's history, hosting a variety of events including open-wheel auto racing that helped lay the foundation for modern IndyCar racing. The exhibit provides a glimpse into this forgotten chapter and connects Arlington's past to its present as a growing hub for sports and entertainment.
The details
Arlington Downs opened in 1929 as a horse and auto racing track built by oilman W.T. Waggoner. After pari-mutuel betting was banned in 1937, the track hosted a variety of events including rodeos, stock car races, and open-wheel auto racing sanctioned by the AAA Contest Board. Legendary driver Ted Horn won the AAA National Championship three years in a row from 1946 to 1948 at Arlington Downs, cementing his status as a force in American open-wheel racing.
- Arlington Downs opened on November 1, 1929.
- Pari-mutuel betting was legalized in Texas in 1933, making Arlington Downs one of the state's premier racing destinations.
- Pari-mutuel betting was banned again in 1937, leading the track to host a variety of events including open-wheel auto racing.
- Arlington Downs hosted AAA Championship Racing events from 1947 to 1950.
- The exhibit "Uncovered Speed: The Legacy of Open-Wheeled Racing in Arlington" will run from February 16 to March 16, 2026.
The players
W.T. Waggoner
An oilman who built the Arlington Downs racetrack in 1929.
Ted Horn
A legendary driver who won the AAA National Championship three years in a row from 1946 to 1948 at Arlington Downs.
University of Texas at Arlington
The institution hosting the "Uncovered Speed" exhibit that explores the history of open-wheel racing in Arlington.
What they’re saying
“To the race fans in Texas, good luck, Clark Gable.”
— Clark Gable (MGM sweepstakes program)
What’s next
The exhibit "Uncovered Speed: The Legacy of Open-Wheeled Racing in Arlington" will run from February 16 to March 16, 2026, providing visitors the opportunity to explore the forgotten history of open-wheel racing in the city.
The takeaway
Arlington's rich racing history, including its role in the development of modern open-wheel and IndyCar racing, is a testament to the city's enduring connection to the sport. The "Uncovered Speed" exhibit offers a chance to rediscover this forgotten chapter and appreciate how Arlington's past continues to shape its present and future as a hub for sports and entertainment.
