Local Sports Calendar

The History of Horse Racing in Effingham County

There is a long and storied history of Horse Racing in Effingham County.  It is a story which will fascinate the audience when people gather on the second floor of the Effingham County Museum at 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, December 12, for another in the current season of historical presentations.  The presenters, Carl and Kurt Becker from Altamont, also have a long and storied personal history of involvement with the subject matter. 

Carl left the teaching profession to get into the horse business many, many years ago.  Through the years, he announced many county and state fair harness races.  Kurt’s interest grew rapidly in his childhood when, at age four, he witnessed his first horse race at the Effingham County Fair.  His father was the track announcer.  With those roots in the racing business, Kurt has built quite a resume for himself in horse race announcing from his teenage years to the present. That personal background of the two presenters is the reason why the two are the perfect pair for telling the story of horse racing as no one else can.

The Museum encourages the public to attend the event and learn about another aspect of Effingham County’s wonderful heritage.  There is no admission charge.