The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club started its 84th racing season with a buzz today, as the eagerly anticipated Opening Day celebrations played host to a sell-out crowd. According to ABC 10 News, fans gathered to inaugurate the beginning of the summer meet. With an abundance of excitement in the air, it’s certainly going to be one to remember with an action-packed lineup of events on the horizon featuring the traditional hat contest in the Plaza de Mexico and the Caesars Sportsbook Oceanside Stakes.
Del Mar CEO Joe Harper, a keen advocate for capping attendance at the event for the third year running, was pleased with the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from fans, praising the easier access to wagering, food, and beverage amenities NBC San Diego noted. The racing season kickoff has set the tone for an extraordinary summer, jam-packed with exhilarating world-class racing, outstanding fashion displays, and a fantastic array of luxury food and drinks, ensuring that event-goers can revel in style as they watch the heart-pumping action unfold.
The Opening Day didn't disappoint, showcasing an array of over-the-top, extravagant, and stylish hats. People showcased their creations in the Plaza de Mexico, adding a touch of glamour and excitement to the day as Fox 5 San Diego reports. The traditional hat contest, held from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., proved to be one of the highlights of the day, with hats judged in four categories: best racing theme, most glamorous, best fascinator, and best flowers. Winners took home a share of the generous $4,000 prize pool available for the contests.
Impressive as the fashion extravaganza may be, the primary focus remained on the races gracing the turf. The stage was set for the $100,000 Oceanside Stakes, which lured a field of 14 3-year-olds to compete for glory in the mile race. All eyes remained on the morning line favorite, Escape Artist, who boasted an impeccable record with victories in all five of his career starts. Jockey Kent Desormeaux and Escape Artist teamed up again following their triumph at Santa Anita Park on June 11, increasing the anticipation surrounding the race.
While the Opening Day tickets had sold out, fans who missed out should not be disheartened, as limited tickets were still available for the opening weekend events on July 22 and 23. This summer racing season promises a roster of engaging fan-favorite events catered to cater to various interests, enhancing the energy and excitement throughout the meet.
From the Beer Fest on July 22, boasting over 50 brews, ciders, and seltzers, to the Taste of New Orleans on August 5, offering a flavorful slice of authentic Cajun cuisine and live music, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club shows no signs of slowing down as ABC 10 reports. In addition, an array of other themed events, such as the Wine Festival, Taco & Beer Festival, and Family Fun Day, ensures an exhilarating summer racing season catering to all tastes and preferences.
