The Del Mar Racetrack opened in 1937, and Bing Crosby, a very famous movie star for 30 years, was at the gate to personally create fans. With the exception of the closing of the track during World War II, racing has been continually held at Del Mar since it opened. This track became the 'playground of the stars' during the late '40's and all of the '50's. Del Mar is the second largest thoroughbred racetrack in the country. Only Santa Anita in Los Angeles is larger. The prestigious Breeder's Cup will be held for the first time at Del Mar in 2017.
We were off to the races. Thursdays are 'Senior Days' at Del Mar, and that means free admission for old people. This place is really fun. Let me answer the one question everyone is thinking: "Did you win?" Actually, we did. Drake won twice and I won once out of seven races. Drake's first bet on the long shot coming in really started us off on a high. Then, to top it off, he also won the second race. His comment at the betting window, "Boy, this is easy!" got a big laugh.
As always, the weather was absolutely perfect. We sat in the grandstands right before the finish line watching the races from the same vantage point we like to watch ballet performances - slightly from above. Our seats were right in front of the big jumbotron TV which was great because we could see the race on the back half of the track. Otherwise, you'd only see the last 100 yards of each race.
I kept looking around for racetrack touts, but they must have been home doing their laundry. It was all squeaky clean, and really pleasant. Talk about a relaxing day! And, yes, people really do try to cheer home the horse they've bet on. The emotional charge of the spectators ebbed and flowed throughout the day.
If you would like to see the pictures, click on the link:
Oh, and our winnings amounted to the grand total of $18.
