Attendance up. Handle down. But one burning question remains unanswered: What the heck did they add to my margarita that turned it so green?
Regardless of its color, it’s still the same tasty refreshment. Likewise, I can say the same thing about Lone Star Park’s 2010 Spring Thoroughbred Meet – perhaps the racing product wasn’t exactly “top shelf”, but it was still a fun and enjoyable refreshment.
Last year, racetrack management, toiling in bankruptcy misery and imminent auction, couldn’t provide a spark of innovation if they had a flamethrower. However, this year – energized with the impending transfer to Global Gaming – fan-friendly fresh ideas blossomed. Here’s a sampling of a few of the recent zesty racetrack happenings:
Jockeys & Java. I’ve been
touting this trackside program since Dan Leary and his media/marketing posse whipped it up in May. People are eager to learn about horse racing and what better way than to ask questions, tour the backstretch, and walk down a shedrow while being bit by evil horseflies. After eating a free breakfast burrito, of course. The “special guests” featured on these programs were informative and entertaining; gladly fielding fans’ numerous questions. Of note, teeming millions showed up for the final installment of the program with guest, jockey Chris Landeros; don’t have the actual attendance figure but according to Hospitality Man, they went through 500 burritos.
Additionally, Lone Star’s track announcer, John Lies, deserves a shout out for his involvement with Jockeys & Java. His interview style put the guests at ease and encouraged interesting topics and anecdotes. And not once did he say my questions were dumb.
Lone Star Music Series. Okay, I didn’t go to any of these concerts, but lots of other people did.
Dollar Day. Lots of people went to Dollar Day. Value entertainment. Wish every day was Dollar Day.
Clarence Scharbauer, Jr. The famed Texan of
Alysheba lore is steadfast and true to the Lone Star State, lending dreams of greatness to Texas horse racing one day. His
Coyote Legend won the $50,000 Premiere Stakes on opening day, won the $100,000 Texas Stallion Stakes on May 8, and won the $75,000 Assault Stakes on July 10. He earned the meet’s Champion Texas-Bred Male Award.
Party at the Park. Friday nights with $1 beers and great local bands, one of which included my favorite Beatles tribute band,
Hard Night's Day. I danced at the track – literally. The cheap beer helped ... with the dancing, that is.
Bob Baffert/Martin Garcia. Winning trainer/jockey combo was formidable here.
Mythical Power won the Texas Mile (gr. III).
Game on Dude won the Lone Star Derby (gr. III).
Recognition of racehorse rescue organizations. Lone Star Park aided Donna Keen’s fundraising efforts for her non-profit organization,
Remember Me Rescue, with raffles and a chili cook-off. The care and well-being of horses after they’re finished racing is a concern for so many fans, and there’s a perception of indifference by the industry. I was glad to see Lone Star give the issue some high profile attention.
Chris Landeros. Last year’s leading jockey defended his title with 101 wins this year, just shy of a record. A couple of years ago, disgruntled with short fields and a shortage of mounts, this young man left California and was lured to ride in this region. At this writing, he’s committed to Lone Star Park and the PGA Tour. He’s loaded with talent and promise – California’s loss has been our gain. And he’s never had any kind of weight issue, which pisses off a lot of us chubby people.
Yes, there are money
woes and sagging purses and handle decline, yet the spring meet was pleasurable. At this time, there are plans being hatched to improve the racing quality and make it more attractive to the serious bettors, however, I hope they don’t neglect those of us who enjoy horse racing as a tasty treat.
Wednesdays in August, from 5 to 7 p.m., Lone Star Park has the Del Mar Happy Hour with $2 Margaritas. $2 Margaritas!
Attendance up. Handle down. But one burning question remains unanswered: What the heck did they add to my margarita that turned it so green?
Lone Star Park – doing their part to contribute to the commendable cause – held their 2nd Annual Jockey Charity Softball Game this evening with proceeds benefiting the Don MacBeth Memorial Fund. A doubleheader, to be exact. Jockeys versus The Suits (read: Lone Star Park management and media who can pass themselves off as “fit”). Never one to pass up an opportunity to donate to a worthy cause and/or have my picture taken with really short people, I spent a little time at the ol’ ballpark to take in the festivities and heckle Drew Shubeck when at bat.
