​California racing has been an important part of the Thoroughbred game since the 1930’s. The opening of the Del Mar meet will mark the 87th season in which fans flock to where the turf meets the surf. When entertaining icon Bing Crosby’s dream became a reality and the gates opened for the first time, could he have known his creation would still be such a haven nearly nine decades later? Having now hosted the Breeders’ Cup four times and boasting a Summer schedule that features 37 Stakes races worth over $11.6 million, this Seaside Oval located just north of San Diego is again breaking from the starting gates with authority.(Original Caption) Del Mar, California. Racing Seabiscuit won by a nose over Ligaroti in their $25,000 winner-take-all match race here, August 12th. Georgie Woolf was riding the winner. Time for the mile and a eigth was 1:49. Photo shows: Seabiscuit (nearest camera) with jockey Georgie Woolf up, winning from Ligaroti, with Spec Richardson up, at the del Mar race track.Bettmann ArchiveOver the years, Del Mar has developed into one of the most iconic tracks in the world. This “playground for the stars” has developed different definitions of that moniker since Bing crooned to the first guests back on July 3, 1937. A destination spot for many of the brightest stars during Hollywood’s golden age, Del Mar has always been a place of glitz and glamour for many two-legged stars. But the four-legged stars have also been numerous during the track’s tenure. Names like Seabiscuit, Tomy Lee, Zenyatta, Beholder, California Chrome, and American Pharoah are just a scant few of the miraculous equine athletes that have toed the track at old Del Mar.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhy do the stars align at Del Mar? The competition is always fierce and for the fans that means an even more amped up adrenaline rush. For the horsemen it provides an opportunity to measure and develop athletes. The two-year-old race program is especially good as those in the game look to develop young talent.“You really can’t beat Del Mar for many reasons”, says Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, who has more wins than any other conditioner at the Seaside Oval. “The atmosphere is great and everyone looks forward to being there. The competition is top notch and the weather is fantastic which makes it good for two-year-old development because these young horses never have to miss training. Being at Del Mar is like a working vacation.”DEL MAR, CA – The turf racing at Del Mar, is among the best in California. and the world (Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images)Getty ImagesSince that inaugural opening day, Del Mar has welcomed over 47 million fans through the turnstiles. Literally across the street from the Pacific Ocean, Bing Crosby and his partners deserve a round of applause for their site selection. Unlike other sporting venues whose popularity has come and gone over the years, this spot for the sport of kings has continued to maintain its ma