There were other tracks in NY earlier in the century that were all competitors. Jamiaca, Empire, Belmont and a few others that I dont recall. Nyra was formed in the 50's to have all the NY tracks under one organization. Aqueduct was a very popular track in the 60's and I believe that the Belmont was even held there while Belmont was being renovated. Aqu is located in Queens not too far from Brooklyn and is on the subway lines from Manhattan and as such was easier for people in these area to reach. Dont forget there was no simulcasting or OTb's and Belmont was a long ways away from the city.
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