Del Mar CA— Surfside Race Place, one of the nation’s largest and most prestigious off-track wagering facilities, is gearing up to celebrate the biggest race of the year, the 142nd Kentucky Derby, Del Mar style, which will be simulcast at Surfside on Saturday, May 7 from Churchill Downs.
Each year 20 horses have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to run in this prestigious event, known as the “Run for the Roses.” To earn a spot in the starting gate, they must travel along the Road to the Kentucky Derby, a series of 35 designated races at tracks across the country and around the world. Points are awarded to the top four finishers in each race. The 20 horses with the most points will earn a spot in the starting gate Derby Day.
The celebration will feature horse racing via satellite from around the country. The day will start with breakfast at the Carving Stand; guests can enjoy Mint Juleps and a barbeque on the patio, sample delicious food and purchase souvenirs at the official Derby Day gift shop. Free swag and Derby fan photo opportunities will be offered at the Yelp.com both from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. There will also be a selection of bottled craft brews for $3 or two for $5.
Advance Theater seats are now on sale for $5 at the gift shop, and are on a first-come, first-served basis. Admission is sold separately. General Admission is $5 and $2.50 for Diamond Club members. Indoor and outdoor seating will be offered.
Diamond Club members receive 50 percent off general admission and free parking. Membership in the Diamond Club is free; racing fans can sign up on their first visit and start saving on subsequent visits. The Diamond Club is a joint venture with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, so those who joined during the live meet can save immediately!
A Saddle Club package is available for $20, and includes admission, a program and a commemorative glass. Enjoy a special menu and premium drinks in the comfortable plush club house setting at Surfside Race Place. For reservations, call (858) 755-1167, extension 1220.
Gates and the Saddle Club will open at 7 a.m. First post is 7:30 a.m. The Kentucky Derby will run at 3:30 p.m.
Looking ahead, horse racing enthusiasts can enjoy the excitement of the second and third legs of the Triple Crown at Surfside with the Preakness Stakes on May 21, and the Belmont Stakes on June 11.
Surfside Race Place is located on the Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., and offers off-track wagering year-round (closed during the live Del Mar race meets). Surfside features live racing, day and night from tracks across the country and around the world. Surfside’s unique features include a smoke-free environment, the luxurious Saddle Club, and patios with video monitors where Del Mar’s outstanding weather can be enjoyed. The immaculate 90,000-square-foot facility is designed to provide the ultimate satellite wagering enjoyment. For more information, visit www.surfsideraceplace.com or call 858-755-1167