Saratoga or Del Mar?

[Dusty]

Well heck, since we're gonna get all misty eyed with Hollywood Park stories I might as well explain breaking my maiden there back in the late 50's and early 60's.  I was born in nearby Culver City and grew up in Marina Del Rey before there were any boats!  Going to Hollywood Park with my uncle and grandfather was just a natural, they worked at nearby MGM studios and had all sorts of "contacts" at the track.  My first big winner was the result of my "stooping" for a $12 ticket, immediately went to Big5 sporting goods and purchased my first ever little league glove, didn't have to share anymore and I was hooked with a lifetime memory!!

I really wish kids today could have some kind of introduction to the sport like I got.  Listening to Harry Henson call some great races, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9bucY6hLbA was really special. 

A simple match race even seemed very exciting https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4F8pDHCErw

And Henson called perhaps the most brilliant filly I ever saw in person.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVOEIBIA80Q

Ahhh, Hollywood Park, RIP.

THANK YOU!

[Diver52]

Great videos, thanks .  The 1968 Californian was loaded with quality speed--Kissin George was really fast and Rising Market was no slouch-- plus Gamely.   Too bad Native Diver wasn't there at 9 to spice it up a bit more. . .

Glad to be here.

[peeptoad]

HOL was my former favorite track... I spent many a weekend there before I moved, esp. since it was only a 15 drive from my home. Met a lot of cool people there over the years and saw so many excellent races. 

[stark]

Too bad Native Diver wasn't there at 9 to spice it up a bit more. . .

I hate to sound like a really old fart just looking the in the rear view mirror, but kids today have no idea how great the sport really was once upon a time, check out those crowds!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oo_5NHzOA3g