SANTA ANITA RACE TRACK
Before my dad and Nancy returned to cold weather we went to Santa Anita Park to watch the ponies run. My dad loves horse racing --that's why going to the Kentucky Derby is such a big deal for us (here's a link to that story). This was my first time to Santa Anita, because it always seemed too far. But that was just a silly excuse. It's only 40 miles from where I live (near LAX). The drive wasn't bad at all � there was no traffic. Luck was on our side. Not only did my dad keep picking winners; we also picked a perfect day to go. My house by the beach was cold and foggy, while Santa Anita (inland) was warm and sunny. Temps hovered in the low 80's. Pulling up to valet parking ($10 -- general was $4), I was shocked at how nice and huge (320 acres) Santa Anita is. No wonder the park has been featured in so many movies. The most popular was "Seabiscuit." Fans of that film should take the free tram tour (available weekends only) to the places used in the movie, as well as the famous horse's original stall. The park opens each year on December 26, for 86 racing days. This year's final day is April 23. Racing takes place Wednesdays through Sundays, and holiday Mondays. General admission: $5. Santa Anita Park, 285 W. Huntington Dr., Arcadia CA; tel.: 626-574-7223. For more click HERE.