And They're Off! It's Time For Horse Racing at Del Mar, July 16

Yep, it's time to whip out the Daily Racing Form, dust off the binoculars, hit the ATM, and pray to the racing gods -- Del Mar is back for the 69th season. The annual beach party known as the Del Mar Thoroughbred racing season parades to the post beginning Wednesday, July 16. The season extends through Wednesday, September 3, with a six-day-a-week schedule, Tuesday being each week's day of rest.

The 2008 racing season will be highlighted by the historic track’s richest and most prestigious stakes schedule ever -- 31 events worth $7.35 million. Opening Day will be highlighted by the unique "One and Only Truly Fabulous Hats Contest". The wearing of hats is a tradition on Opening Day at Del Mar. Friday and Saturday concerts continue the entertainment tradition, including shows by Gnarls Barkley, Pinback, Ziggy Marley and more.

For an extensive preview of the 2008 Del Mar Racing season, along with some background info on the track's colorful history, read my article here.