Del Mar, CA
Opening day of Del Mar, the unofficial San Diego holiday, was a welcomed sight on Friday. Over 42,000 were in attendance for the first Friday opener in 40 years. The on-track crowd was the largest crowd of the year at a California racetrack and over 2K more than 2015.
The total handle was also higher. With over $16 million wagered, an increase of over a million dollars more than last year.
Jockey Santiago Gonzalez grabbed the early lead in the jockey standings with three wins. While Tyler Baze and Kent Desormeaux both had two victories.
Trainer Peter Miller and jockey Gary Stevens teamed up to win the traditional Opening Day Oceanside Stakes with Monster Bea. Returning $27.20 to win, ahead of Moolight Drive and Path of David.
Monster Bea was only in Miller's care for about week and Stevens helped rally the gelding from behind a quick pace to a clear victory late.
The racing schedule continues at the seaside oval Wednesday - Sunday with a 2 p.m. first post.