Bet on Your Favorite Pony at This Year’s Breeders’ Cup
Written By: Matthew J. Black
The showcase horse racing event of the year arrives this November in San Diego, and enthusiasts are in for a thrill ride of celebrities, gambling and one of sport’s finest events. For the first time, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club has the honor of hosting the annual Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
High fashion will meet a high profile crowd, featuring members of the Breeders’ Cup Celebrity Ambassadors Program like Bobby Flay, Elizabeth Banks and Kate Upton. Nearly $130 million will exchange hands on Nov. 3 and 4, and with all that cash on the line, you understand why the Breeders’ Cup is considered the Super Bowl and World Series all rolled into one.
“Because there is so much prestige and so much money on the line, the racing is always the most important aspect of the day,” says Craig Dado, Executive VP and CMO of Del Mar.
Thirteen Grade I races over two days will create magic of their own as horses from all over the world compete for over $28 million in prize money.
“I’ve learned to say thank you in many languages,” says Del Mar Mayor Terry Sinnott. Del Mar is readying itself, and sparing no expense to accommodate the cosmopolitan crowd. A $4.5 million facelift will bring in a new 8mm Daktronics video board, an additional 900 box seats and a Trackside Marquee and Chalet housing almost 2,000 guests.
Over the course of 2017, 80 races held in 13 countries decide which horses will run in the Breeders’ Cup. “The top horse in the world, Arrogate, is very likely to run,” says Dado. The best of the best are coming to San Diego and there’s plenty for locals to enjoy.
With over $75 million in anticipated economic impact, San Diego included a 5k run, golf tournament, Belly Up concerts and food and drink festivals in Del Mar. Festivities will occur all week, mingling San Diego’s finest with visitors from all over the world.
Where the Turf Meets the Surf: The infield of Del Mar will feature a new private area for 250 lucky guests. It’s called “The Beach” complete with sand flooring, umbrellas and an adjoining Taco & Tequila festival. That’s enjoying horse racing San Diego style.
Breeders’ Cup Celebrity Ambassador Program: Fifteen celebrities have been inducted into this prestigious group. Some are owners of competing racing teams like Joe Torre, and two-time winner Jim Rome. They enjoy concierge service at horse racing events all over the world as ambassadors for the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
Del Mar Racetrack
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd
Del Mar, CA 92014
858.755.1141
