The track’s Spanish-style architecture and laid-back attitude make Del Mar the annual setting for one of America’s foremost salutes to the sport, where horses, trainers, jockeys and owners come together for racing beside the sea.
It all began back in 1937 when Bing Crosby and some of his Hollywood buddies such as Pat O’Brien and Jimmy Durante got together and found a spot in a sleepy town called Del Mar to start a race track. In 1938, the great legendary horse, Seabiscuit, came to town in an epic race against Ligaroti, where Seabiscuit, with George “Iceman” Woolf riding, won by a nose. Some of the great names have spent time at Del Mar. Pincay, Shoemaker, Wittingham, Longden, Delahoussaye, Lukas, Baffert, McCarron, Cigar, Mabee, Best Pal, etc.
In 1993, a major renovation and expansion made Del Mar even better. From 1990 through 2000 Del Mar led the entire country in average attendance. If you have ever taken the chance to visit Del Mar you will understand why. It is hard to argue with perfect weather, perfect scenery, and great racing. That is what Del Mar has every summer.