Opening Day at Emerald Downs

Last Friday we attended the Opening Day of our local race track, Emerald Downs. A couple of things attracted us. First, it was a nice sunny day, something that we don’t always have at this time of year in the northwest. And second, there was a fine giveaway, a sports bag. One out of the 5,000 available one had $5000 tucked away in it. It was worth a shot. The card is not wonderful, neither on opening day nor at this time of year. All of distances were set at 5 or 5½ furlongs. The horses haven’t been in training very long and the longer distances would only bring injuries. We had a great time until the sun went down. It began to get cold and by the last race around 9:30 p.m. I was getting chilled clear through. Still, it was fun to see the horses run. We didn’t lose. Neither did we win very big. And no, we did not get the $5 grand. A lady who did was interviewed at about the fourth race. There was a good opening day crowd of about 8,000 and the handle at the windows was nearly $1½ million. So the track is off to a good start. I note that the first stakes race was Sunday and a horse was shipped in from California to take the big money. Smart owner or trainer. Well, this won’t be the last time I go to the track this summer. It’s about a half hour away and the drive isn’t bad at all. And on clear days there is a beautiful view of Mt. Rainier standing tall to the southeast. What more could one ask? Blue skies, sunshine, and beautiful horses trying their best.