As the Summer season fades away like a bronzed tan and Labor Day 2021 wanes from our memories, we hit “pause” to harken back to July 16th, which was Opening Day at Del Mar. This swanky event is one of horse racing's most popular festivities, and for those in the know, it serves as Southern California’s “Unofficial Party of the Summer.”
Del Mar is located twenty miles north of San Diego, California, along the Pacific Ocean. The Del Mar Racecourse is one of the world's most beautiful, and its history dates back to Hollywood’s golden age. Celebrities including W.C Fields, Lucille Ball, Jimmy Durante, and Bing Crosby all helped to establish the track soon and forever to be known as the place “where the surf meets the turf.” (Horse racing at Del Mar is held on two types of tracks: grass and dirt. ‘Turf’ refers to the grass course).
Every July, thousands of attendees -- from celebrities and socialites to casual racing fans and curious onlookers -- flock to Opening Day at Del Mar. Everywhere one turns, there are glamorous gamblers, well-adorned hats, and fashion-forward fans.
Opening Day 2021 at Del Mar Race Course
The day began early and with much more eager anticipation than in years past, especially because no fans were allowed during the 2020 meetings due to COVID health concerns. The pent-up electrical energy of the crowd in 2021 was palpable from the get-go.
The weather was perfect, not a surprise given that San Diego, with its near-perfect weather, is often referred to as “America’s Finest City.” The racecourse was well-manicured and the horses well-coiffed.
As the first race of the day commenced, the gates flew open, the horses charged, and the track announcer declared: “And away they go!” Del Mar 2021 was pumping adrenaline and off to a great start. A sea of happy faces cheered and celebrated.
Aside from world-class competition among the horses, Fashion is a serious passion on Opening Day too!
100's of contestants donned flamboyant, extravagant designs and vied for the coveted Hat Contest crown. This year, hats were varied, plentiful, and colorful -- ranging from broad-brimmed hats to plumed fascinators — creativity was on display with everything from bluebirds in a cage to Vegas showgirls-themes. The 2021 winners among four categories were Lauri Shelton, Belinda Berry, Kathy LaBordo, and Rebecca Smith.
Photo Credit: @DelMarRacing on Twitter
However fine the hats, it was the horsemen who held court in a fashion sense. GayTravel’s own Steve Flash, along with his entourage of successful entrepreneurs and fellow horse owners, including community supporters Del Mar barrister Bing Bush Jr. and Insurance Executive William “Rooster” Minton, looked especially snappy. Bing and Rooster are long-time partners who both fulfilled their overdue dream when they won their first race ever on Opening Day at Del Mar.
These fine fellows not only looked good, but they also displayed impressive prowess on the wagering front too. Steve Flash, betting on his namesake horses, paid off handsomely for his group when Flash of Genius and Flashiest placed first in their respective races.
Photo Credit: Benoit
But the best bet of the day occurred when a gentleman meant to bet a $20 superfecta, picking the first four finishers in the next race, but the teller mistakenly gave him the Pick 4 (picking the winners in the next subsequent four races). The teller’s miscue resulted in the bettor winning $87,000 on his bet. $20 for $87 large…this too could happen to you when you attend the races at Del Mar.
Photo Credit: @DelMarRacing on Twitter
Breeders' Cup 2021
If you missed Opening Day at Del Mar, the best is yet to come. Breeders’ Cup World Thoroughbred Championships will be hosted by the Del Mar Racetrack November 5 - 6, 2021. Make your plans now to experience thoroughbred Champions and fun in the sun at Southern California Fall’s Premier equine fashion event. Don't miss more horses, flowers, fashion, and festivities.
When planning to travel, we advise caution as we are still in the midst of a pandemic. These unprecedented times make it especially challenging with an ever-changing pathogen, so check the CDC Guidelines for up-to-date information. At GayTravel.com, we remain cautiously optimistic that we may soon put extreme caution in the rearview mirror and return to our roots of constantly seeking new, inclusive, and safe adventures for you to experience. Stay tuned and up-to-date with the latest LGBTQ+ travel information by subscribing to our free newsletter.
Where to Stay?
Giddy on up to these GayTravel Approved® accommodations!
1) Paradise Point Resort & Spa, tucked away on beautiful Mission Bay in San Diego.
2) Marriott Marquis San Diego, located on the waterfront of San Diego Bay and walking distance from the Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, Little Italy, Petco Park, and a short trip away from Balboa Park & the Hillcrest gayborhood. This stunning hotel was the 2019 Gay Travel AwardSM Winner of the "Business Hotel" category.
3) Rancho Valencia is a fine choice for luxury and location in Rancho Santa Fe with proximity and just minutes away from the Del Mar Racetrack.
P.S. Horse enthusiasts traveling to Oahu, Hawaii, will also appreciate staying at equine-themed The Equus, a longtime GayTravel.com partner, and super gay-friendly hotel in Waikiki.
