Traditional Dirt Back for Opening Day at Del Mar

A new dirt track will be unveiled, replacing the Polytrack surface that was installed in 2007 – a fact likely not lost on many traditional handicappers who lamented the quirky form of the synthetic footing. A total of 41 stakes races will be contested during the meet, beginning with the traditional running of the $100,000 Oceanside Stakes on opening day. The Eddie Read marks the first grade one event of the meeting, and is slated to take place Saturday, July 18.  

Traditional grade 1 events on tap

Other annual grade 1 classics include the Bing Crosby on July 26, the Clement Hirsch on August 1, the Del Mar Oaks on August 15, and the $1 million Pacific Classic on August 22. First post will be at 2 pm Pacific, with the exception of 4 pm Friday posts. Jockey Victor Espinoza won the 2014 meet with 12 wins in 51 starts for earnings of $748,468, while trainer Peter Miller captured the conditioner’s title with 15 victories from 65 starts – good for purse earnings of $767,518.

Big days, big bets 

Handicappers from around the country will note the trio of graded stakes races scheduled for August 22, with the featured Pacific Classic, and an undercard that includes the Grade 2 Del Mar Handicap at 1 3/8 miles on turf and the Grade 2 Pat O’Brien at seven furlongs.