DEL MAR OPENING DAY GUIDE 2015
SADDLE
UP!
Opening Day at Del Mar, Your Complete Guide to San Diego’s Most Anticipated Event of the Year PG. 130
HOW TO
BET
Quick Tips to Make Some Cash PG. 136
MAKE IT A
STAYCATION
Sit Back and Relax This Summer in San Diego PG. 138
FASHION 101
Find Your Flair for the Races at These Local Spots PG. 132
TRACK
TREATS
Find Your Best Bite On-Site PG. 135
PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION
RANCHO MISSION VIEJO RIDING PARK AT SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
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Hashtag This! Get Del Mar famous by posting pictures of you and your friends while at the track on Twitter or Instagram and tag @DelMarRacing with the hashtag #DelMarScene, to have your photo shown on the giant tote board in between races! Get the latest concert, racing and event updates by following Del Mar on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @DelMarRacing.
saddle up!
A DAY AT THE RACES: PLAN YOUR BEST OPENING DAY YET
OPENING DAY AT DEL MAR, YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO SAN DIEGO’S MOST ANTICIPATED EVENT OF THE YEAR
WRITTEN BY: ROXANA BARHAGHI AND SAMANTHA TANCREDI OPENING PHOTO BY: DHRUMIL DESAI | COVER MODEL: YENNY GARCIA | STYLED BY: JILLI JOFFE MAKEUP & HAIR BY: BRIE LEACH CROUSE | APPAREL & ACCESSORIES BY: BCBG HORSE PROVIDED BY: NICOLE KANE OF SOUTH SHORE FARMS
Overwhelming excitement is in the air, and boutiques all throughout Southern California are selling out of their colorful and glamorous floppy hats. This can only mean one thing: Opening Day at Del Mar is right around the corner!
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Fashion-forward men and women are already in extensive planning mode, and they are counting down the days until their time to shine arrives. Meanwhile, the bets are on, and the horses are ready for a performance of a lifetime. Restaurants are gearing up for the impending
wave of hungry visitors, and hotels are booking reservations left and right. The anticipation for the big day is bubbling under the surface. To help guide you through the style, food, events and lodging for the July 16th Opening, insider tips and hints are just a page flip away.
Date: July 16, 2015 9:30 am: Pre-Race Brunch
Start your day with brunch and good friends before you hit the track.
11:30 am: Gates Open
Get a head start and be there early to beat the traffic and the crowd!
2 pm: Races Begin 6 pm: The After Party!
FASHION VALLEY
At the Drop of a Hat Want to know what it takes to have the winning hat of the season? Check out the past years’ number one stars and their runnerups. The winner for the “Most Outrageous” category of the 2014 season, Belinda Berry, decorated her hat with large, navy blue polka dots, ostrich feathers and a matching dress. Berry was also the 2014 Bing Crosby Grand Prize Winner, which included a five-star getaway at The Grand Del Mar valued at $1,500! So be inventive, look to the past for inspiration … and good luck!
IF THE SHOE FITS… Be prepared to strut your stuff by wearing comfortable wedges or flats. You want to keep up with the race, so wear shoes that can withstand the dirt, the standing and the long walks around the grounds.
PLAY IT COOL If you want to incorporate summer trends into your look, go for bold yellows, box clutches, tassel fringe and gingham patterns. Suede and the polo button-up are on the upswing as well, so keep your eye out for these trends and a simple gold jewelry piece to go along with it.
SWEATER WEATHER The racetrack is next to the ocean, and sometimes-sunny skies are accompanied by a cool breeze. Don’t forget to throw a pretty shawl over your shoulders or a light sweater in your handbag for when things get chilly.
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Fashion 101:
FIND YOUR FLAIR FOR THE RACES AT THESE LOCAL SPOTS
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club will be overflowing with trendsetting men and women for Opening Day’s fun in the sun festivities. Ladies’ style can run the gamut from California
casual to formal flair. But whether you want to wear white jeans with wedges or a floral dress with heels, definitely pair your outfit with an elegant sun hat. The fashionable gentlemen of the Turf Club will adhere
to the dress code in fitted sports coats, button down shirts and pressed slacks. Non-members can dress more casually, in cotton trousers and a laid-back button down.
DEL MAR RACING AT YOUR FINGERTIPS Del Mar Mobile is the must have app for regulars and rookies spending a day at the seaside track. The “one-stop, one-source mobile app” features on-track mobile wagering, streaming of live races, race replays, Cybertote (real-time results, odds, will pays, scratches, etc.), a betting calculator and a calendar of Del Mar events and concerts. Consider it your virtual concierge. Available for any “smart” mobile device.
handbag essentials
FLOWER HILL PROMENADE
Stop Everyone in Their (Del Mar) Tracks – These Tips Will Keep You Fashionable and OnTrend at The Races
$ CASH:
$
some betting booths only take cash and you never know when you will need to tip someone
FLOWER HILL PROMENADE 2720 Via De La Valle Del Mar, CA 92014 858.481.2904 www.flowerhill.com
If you want to make a day of your shopping adventures, visit the Flower Hill Promenade, where you can experience fashion, relaxing spa treatments and delicious dining in one convenient location. It’s only one mile from the tracks, so if you’re scurrying around for any last minute items to complete your look, the Flower Hill Promenade is the place to go.
CELL PHONE: for trackside selfies
$
$ SUNGLASSES: especially for viewing horses at the paddock
FASHION VALLEY 7007 Friars Rd San Diego, CA 92108 619.688.9113 www.shopfashionvalleymall.com
When you need plenty of options and endless inspiration, Fashion Valley will have everything you’re looking for. This expansive outdoor mall in Mission Valley consists of 200 stores and restaurants and five major department stores. With price tags ranging from bargain deals to indulgent splurges, you can shop till you drop as you prepare for the main event of the season.
LIPSTICK:
to be photo ready
REIGN & CLOVER 937 S Coast Hwy 101, Ste C102 Encinitas, CA 92024 760.635.2664 www.reignandclover.com
For a chic and trendy Opening Day look, Reign & Clover will meet all your style needs. Sisters and coowners Nicole and Dominique Richards stock their boutique with leading, high-quality brands like Merritt Charles, Amanda Uprichard, Riller & Fount, Myne and Janessa Leone. After shopping at this fabulous Encinitas boutique, you’ll be turning heads and stopping everyone in their (Del Mar) tracks. SEKA BOUTIQUE 2021 San Elijo Ave Cardiff, CA 92007 760.633.1680 www.sekaboutique.com
$
POWDER:
for blotting out a glow
Since opening in August 2014, Seka Boutique has emphasized personalized service and fashionable head-to-toe attire. With a wide selection of amazing accessories, dresses and
denim, you’re sure to find an outfit for every occasion. MATTI D 2689 Via De La Valle Del Mar, CA 92014 858.523.0693
The reliably cool and modern Matti D offers the newest apparel and accessories in contemporary fashion for both men and women. This trendsetting boutique has an unlimited variety of casual wear and formal attire, so whether you’re looking for a comfortable sweater or sophisticated blouse, Matti D will have you covered. CEDROS AVENUE Cedros Ave Solana Beach, CA 92075 www.cedrosavenue.com
Travel just a little north of Del Mar to Solana Beach for the artistic and stylish scene on Cedros Avenue. Full of history and culture, the street is lined with a variety of boutiques, jewelry shops and eateries. The Cedros
Avenue Design District is a community for San Diegans and visitors alike, as they enjoy casual shopping and entertainment. Stroll the avenue and feast your eyes on all the excitement as you shop for your dress-toimpress outfit. CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLETS 5620 Paseo Del Norte Carlsbad, CA 92008 760.804.9000 www.premiumoutlets.com/ carlsbad
The Carlsbad Premium Outlets lure in the stylish and budget-savvy shopper with exceptional brands and extraordinary savings of 25 – 65 percent. Nestled next to The Flower Fields, visitors enjoy a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere while also discovering affordably priced Michael Kors accessories, Cole Haan pumps and Kate Spade dresses.
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Searsucker photos by: Chantelle Photography
Food & Tunes San Diego’s local music scene thrives at many of the city’s neighborhood eateries. During this season’s races, check out Beaumont’s in La Jolla for their fabulous food and entertaining live music scheduled every Thursday to Sunday. Or, stop by Searsucker’s lounge area for a cocktail and performance every Friday and Saturday.
Up Close and Personal Reserve a table trackside at the Clubhouse Terrace Restaurant, where your close proximity to the races guarantees a good view and excellent dining experience for the whole event.
SEARSUCKER
Room With a View Located in the infield with traditional Spanish Mission design, the shaded outdoor Pacific Pavilion can hold up to 2,000 people and is ideal for your large group of friends. Closed-circuit television screens and wager windows surround the area. And while you can bring your own food for an intimate picnic, there’s also a staffed catering service with an array of appetizing platters to choose from.
Trucking Amazing Every foodie’s dream comes true as the Food Truck Festival rolls back into Del Mar this summer. Amazing cuisines from the best Southern California chefs will be served to you from vehicle windows, and it will taste superb. Past trucks have included: The Grilled Cheese Truck, The Lobsta Truck and The Lime Truck, and we can only hope these crowd favorites return for another year! VISIT www.DelMarScene.com for dates and details.
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Food for Thought
FILL UP AT OUR FAVORITE NEARBY RESTAURANTS BEFORE AND AFTER THE BIG EVENT
CRUSH 437 S Hwy 101, Ste 112 Solana Beach, CA 92075 858.481.2787 www.solanabeachcrush.com
Crush in Solana Beach is the epitome of Italian home cooking with freshly prepared pastas, vegetables and meats. Chef Matthew Geremia’s Italian upbringing is something we can all be thankful for as we eat one of his brick oven pizzas and then walk 10 minutes to Fletcher Cove Beach Park
to lounge on the grass and access the beach path for a tranquil stroll. PACIFICA DEL MAR 1555 Camino Del Mar Del Mar, CA 92014 858.792.0476 www.pacificadelmar.com
Pacifica Del Mar specializes in modern coastal cuisine and great sunset views. The dining room and outdoor patio treat guests to stunning ocean sights, while excellent seafood, steak and
pasta dishes are served to the table. TRULUCK’S 8990 University Center Ln San Diego, CA 92122 858.453.2583 www.trulucks.com
Upscale dining meets the ultimate seafood and steak experience at Truluck’s in La Jolla. When you’re craving high-end crab or center-cut filet, Truluck’s will present you with the finest plates to exceed all your expectations.
AGAVE DEL MAR 1555 Camino Del Mar, Ste 322 Del Mar, CA 92014 858.793.0758 www.agavedm.com
For authentic Mexican food grab a bite at Agave Del Mar. Located at the top of the Del Mar Plaza, expect picturesque views and assorted tequila cocktails as you savor their flavorful mole and savory seafood.
SEARSUCKER Del Mar Highlands Town Center 12995 El Camino Real, Ste 121 Del Mar, CA 92130 858.369.5700 www.searsucker.com
After a fun day spent at the tracks, dine at celebrity Chef Brian Malarkey’s Searsucker to enjoy some good ole fashioned comfort food. Order the ‘toasted 5 cheese + pesto + tomato soup’ or one of the menu’s other satisfying entrée items. The American classic cuisine and relaxed environment is perfect for your post-Opening Day activities.
THE EXPERT: JOSH RUBINSTEIN
Track Treats
Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Working with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club for over two decades, COO Josh Rubinstein has been there to see the excitement of Opening Day throughout the years. He gives us the scoop for this summer’s 2015 races and what he enjoys doing at the track when he’s not busy at work.
1. If your group is in the Paddock View Patio area, grab a carved sandwich or specialty salad from the Paddock Tavern or Red Star Cafe for a filling and energizing meal.
2. Wholesome downto-earth burgers and fries are served at Blue Moon Celebrity Grill on the 3rd Floor Clubhouse level. Pair the spicy crunchy tempura green beans with your favorite draft brew.
KITCHEN 1540 1540 Camino Del Mar Del Mar, CA 92014 858.793.6460 www.laubergedelmar.com
A sensational summer setting awaits at L’Auberge Del Mar’s signature restaurant, KITCHEN 1540. Whether you are looking for a lively atmosphere at the bar, a comfortable yet elegant setting in their dining room, or an al fresco experience complete with an ocean view, you can find it here. Unforgettable features include an open presentation kitchen, a private dining room wrapped in wine-encased walls, and private cabanas for a more secluded environment to eat and drink.
3. When you need something refreshing to cool down from all the excitement, try the soft serve ice cream on the 1st Floor Clubhouse or the hand-packed ice cream on the 1st Floor Stretch Run level.
5. Refresh and wet your whistle with one of Del Mar’s most famous signature drinks: the Del Margarita.
Q: How have you seen Opening Day change throughout the years? JR: Opening Day has always been Del Mar’s signature event, but the level of “the party” before, during and after the races, and how people dress to the nines, has escalated beyond belief. I’ve been fortunate to attend some fantastic events: Super Bowl, Grammys, Kentucky Derby and none top the atmosphere of being at Opening Day. Q: What’s in store for Opening Day this year? JR: Who shows up from a celebrity standpoint is always interesting. Often times, we don’t know until the day of. Q: As an insider of the DMTC, can you give us any interesting tips or facts? JR: One of the things that makes horse racing, and Del Mar, in particular, so cool is the access you get to the stars. Hang out in the Paddock area at Del Mar, and you’re likely to rub elbows with Hall of Famers Bob Baffert and Gary Stevens, not to mention NFL stars and local residents like Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers.
4. Il Palio offers a spectacular view of the track and an eclectic menu for each hungry guest, while The Turf Club provides luxury dining for their exclusive members. Both restaurants require reservations and enforce a dress code.
Q: You’ve been with the track since 1989! How did you first start with DMTC? Josh Rubinstein: I got lucky and landed a summer college job in the media department. After college, I worked for ABC Sports for a few years. One day I got a call from Craig Fravel, former Del Mar President and current CEO of the Breeders’ Cup, asking if I was interested in a full-time position at Del Mar. It took me less than 6 seconds to say, “Yes!”
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do at the races? JR: When I’m able to get to other tracks, there is nothing more fun than a casual day in a box with friends, handicapping the races and enjoying a few cocktails — hopefully celebrating a winner or two. SEA & SMOKE 2690 Via De La Valle, #D210 Del Mar, CA 92014 858.925.8212 www.seaandsmoke.com
Sea & Smoke, sister restaurant to Urban Solace and Solace & the Moonlight Lounge, is the perfect spot to brunch before heading over to the tracks. Fill up on one of their popular cast iron skillet benedicts, and you’ll be immediately planning your next visit for Martini Monday and Live Music Wednesday.
“Opening Day has always been Del Mar’s signature event, but the level of ‘the party’ before, during and after the races, and how people dress to the nines, has escalated beyond belief.” – Josh Rubinstein | JULY 2015 | 135
F a ct n u F ◀
▶
HORSE’S AGE Every horse celebrates a birthday on JANUARY 1ST, regardless of the horse’s actual birth date.
how to bet
OFF-TRACK BETTING (OTB) Sycuan Casino
QUICK TIPS TO MAKE SOME CASH
WIN: You win $ if your horse wins first place. PLACE: You win $ if your horse gets first or second place. SHOW: You win $ if your horse finishes first, second, or third place.
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2 1
The Daily Double
Quinella
Exacta
tri-Fecta
HOW TO WIN: You must pick the winner in two consecutive races. Bet must be placed before the start of the first race.
HOW TO WIN: You must pick two horses who finish first or second (doesn’t matter the order) in a single race.
HOW TO WIN: You must pick the horses who will finish first and second, in the exact order, in a single race.
HOW TO WIN: You must pick the first three horses who will cross the finish line, in order from first to second to third place.
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3
4
SUPER Fecta
HOW TO WIN: This one’s a real doozy. You must pick who will win first, second, third and fourth - in that exact order!
This casino is the only venue to place bets other than at the Del Mar Racetrack. Betting in the OTB Room at Sycuan Casino is almost as good as being at the racetrack—all of the same bets are available! There are 14 big-screen TVs for live viewing. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am to 11pm.
How to Navigate the Track: Horse Racing 101 Races run each week from Wednesday through Sunday.
QUICK TIP: The ushers wearing green can help you get to your seats. Have your tickets ready and they will show you where to go! There are two sides of the track – Stretch Run and Clubhouse.
ADMISSION TICKET: Stretch Run – Allows access to the Stretch Run areas only: west side of Grandstand, nearest to the ocean Clubhouse – Access to both the Clubhouse area east of the finish line and Stretch Run areas
RESERVED SEATING: Reserve your tickets early and get the best seats by visiting www.DelMarScene.com Clubhouse Reserved – Outdoor, shaded seats located beyond east of the finish line Stretch Run Reserved – Outdoor shaded seats located before west of the finish line
“The location of the track is unlike any other racetrack in the world. You can smell the ocean while you’re on the horses. It’s absolutely beautiful there.”
Each race only
– Drayden Van Dyke
lasts 1-2 minutes.
“Post Time” is the time at which each race begins.
At only 20 years old, Drayden Van Dyke has already mastered the world of horse racing. Being mentored by Hall of Fame Jockey Mike Smith, he explains what he is looking forward to most this season and what he does to prepare before a big race.
The Paddock is the oval area where the horses are saddled up 30 minutes prior to each race.
Q: When did your love for racing first begin? Did anything inspire you? Drayden Van Dyke: I was about 14 in Kentucky at Churchill Downs visiting my dad who worked as an exercise rider. The horses of course really inspired me, and most of all, my father.
Watching the horses warm up can help you pick a horse to bet on.
Jockeys mount
Concert Lineup Schedule (all concerts are 18+):
Races begin at 2pm (except on Fridays).
Friday, July 17: Special Guests
Friday, August 7: Special Guests
Friday, July 24: The Wailers
Friday, August 14: Steel Pulse
Saturday, July 25: The Offspring
Friday, August 21: Pepper
Free concert
Friday, July 31: Special Guests
Friday, August 28: Weird Al Yankovic
every Friday around 7:45pm.
Saturday, August 1: Reggae Fest with
Friday, September 4: Paul Okenfold
Friday races start at 4pm.
DRAYDEN VAN DYKE Amateur Jockey
Races are 3.5 to 4 hours with 30 minutes between each race.
their horses and head to the track about 12 minutes before their “Post Time.”
THE EXPERT:
Ziggy Marley
Sunday, September 6: Weezer
Full Season Schedule: Every Wednesday: Free & Easy Wednesdays
Saturday, July 25 & Saturday, August 29:
Every Friday & Select Saturdays/Sundays:
Beer Festivals
Del Mar Summer Concert Series
T-Shirt Giveaway Day & Western Regional Chili Cook-Off & Salsa Contest
Every Saturday & Sunday:
Saturday, August 8:
Daybreak at Del Mar
Saturday, August 15:
Every Saturday & Sunday:
Food Truck Festival & Donuts Day (#2) 8 – 10 a.m.
Family Weekends
Thursday, July 16: Opening Day & Opening Day Hats Contest
Saturday, July 18: Donuts Day 8 – 10 a.m.
Sunday, July 19: Supersized Family Fun Day & Jockey Photo Day
Q: How is racing in Del Mar different than other places you’ve raced? DVD: The location of the track is unlike any other racetrack in the world. You can smell the ocean while you’re on the horses. It’s absolutely beautiful there. Q: What are you looking most forward to in the 2015 Del Mar races? DVD: I am very interested and excited to see the new dirt course they are putting in. And, of course, I want to have a great, safe meet, and hopefully stay in the top five jockeys standing there. Q: What was your most memorable win? DVD: My first Grade 1 victory aboard Ring Weekend for trainer Graham Motion and my very first win at Hollywood Park. Q: How do you prepare on race day? Do you have any pre-race rituals that you’d like to share? DVD: I run up Mt. Wilson Trail to First Water and back just to get my mind focused, cleared, and my body nice and primed for the races. Q: What do you enjoy doing when you are not on the track? DVD: I love to work out even on my days off. I almost feel lazy if I don’t do a little something each day. I love to be in the best shape possible.
Saturday, August 22: $1 Million Pacific Classic & Canvas Bag Giveaway
Monday, September 7: Closing Day Party in the Paddock
“I am very interested and excited to see the new dirt course they are putting in. And, of course, I want to have a great, safe meet.” – Drayden Van Dyke
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Make it a Staycation! SIT BACK AND RELAX THIS SUMMER IN SAN DIEGO
THE GRAND DEL MAR 5300 Grand Del Mar Ct San Diego, CA 92130 858.314.2000 www.thegranddelmar.com
Expect to feel like royalty staying at The Grand Del Mar. Nestled on a Mediterranean style estate, you will feel far away from home yet still close enough to enjoy the bustle of the races. The resort features a five-star spa, Tom Fazio golf course and immaculate dining. You will completely forget you are still in San Diego!
BREAKFAST CLUB
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HOTEL INDIGO 710 Camino Del Mar Del Mar, CA 92014 858.755.1501 www.hotelindigosddelmar.com
THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES 11480 North Torrey Pines Rd La Jolla, CA 92037 858.453.4420 www.lodgetorreypines.com
Minutes away from the Del Mar Fairgrounds, you can still enjoy your mini vacay in a laid-back setting. Hotel Indigo is all about “casual style with coastal flair.” With beautiful ocean views from your private balcony, you will have all of the amenities you need to make your “getaway” worthwhile.
With views of the world famous Torrey Pines Golf Course and the glistening Pacific Ocean, you won’t have any regrets staying at The Lodge at Torrey Pines. Make it a real staycation by enjoying everything La Jolla has to offer and still be a part of the busy races in Del Mar.
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Get the party started early at Daybreak at Del Mar, where you can grab breakfast and sip mimosas at the track every Saturday and Sunday morning from 7:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. While you’re there, get some insider tips from former jockey and event announcer, Jeff Bloom, while watching the morning workouts.
THE EXPERT: CHRISTIAN HELLMERS Professional Handicapper Ready to win some cash at this season’s races? Famous handicapper and reality star Christian Hellmers gives the best tips and advice for placing your bets and beating the odds.
L’AUBERGE DEL MAR 1540 Camino Del Mar Del Mar, CA 92014 858.259.1515 www.laubergedelmar.com
Avoid the hassle of traveling and stay right where the action is! At L’Auberge the track is within walking distance, and you are right in the heart of Downtown Del Mar, which is where the after parties will be! Just steps away from the beach, you will have the best of it all! This resort’s mantra, “relaxing by day, stylish by night,” is everything you need to make your staycation the best yet.
WON’T BE A PARTY WITHOUT A BALCONY! Make sure to get a balcony at L’Auberge to view the Opening Day party.
Q: How did you get into horse betting? Christian Hellmers: I must thank my old man for the introduction to horse betting. Like many others, my father took me to the racetrack for my first time as a teenager, and I was hooked. He and I would pick the NFL games based on the point spread each weekend — typical father-son bonding. But after we started studying horses, the world changed. Finally, I had discovered the perfect blend of intellectual challenge, decision-making and risk. I found a game that rewards you for having a sharp mind. Q: What is the biggest bet you’ve won? CH: Last year I took home over $270,000 in the Horseplayer World Series in Las Vegas, but I’ve hit several scores over $100,000 including two in the Breeders’ Cup Betting Challenge tournaments where I finished second twice in 2011 and 2012. Q: What was it like being on Esquire’s reality show “Horseplayers”? CH: Anytime the reality TV cameras are on anyone, you’re at risk of looking like a jackass. I understood that going in. I also knew that I would come across as a different man than those on the show since I’m a health junkie, spiritual seeker, and lover of the arts. But I didn’t mind the attention or that risk because my goal was to share a look inside my world as a Horseplayer. Plus, I’ve dedicated lots of my time to personal development and being present in the moment — watching the power of my words and owning it.
RANCHO VALENCIA 5921 Valencia Cir Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 858.756.1123 www.ranchovalencia.com
Located in Rancho Santa Fe, Rancho Valencia is 45 acres of pure bliss. The resort rests on olive groves, colorful gardens, and Mediterranean style waterfalls.
Ranked as one of the top hotels and resorts in California, Rancho Valencia offers exquisite wining and dining areas with stunning views and signatures cocktails. Just a short drive from the Del Mar Racetrack, Rancho Valencia will provide a luxurious atmosphere as your evening winds down.
Q: What are some tips and the best set of advice you can give to betters? CH: For me, I wanted to get one thing across. Most people think of horse racing as a game of luck. I couldn’t disagree more. It’s about skill, self-mastery, and truth. This game isn’t for everyone as it takes everything you’ve got as I consider it a spiritual quest for truth — my own and the destiny of the horses. The trainers only know so much — same with the jockeys. The horses don’t speak verbally unless you are one. Thus, it’s up to the analysts, AKA the Horseplayers, to cut through the history of the horses’ racing performances to decode their ability to run a race on a given day. “Most people think of horse racing as a game of luck. I couldn’t disagree more. It’s about skill, self-mastery, and truth.” – Christian Hellmers | JULY 2015 | 139