Books for the Equestrian in Your Life

The Del Mar Fairgrounds--which hosts the county's annual fair and the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club--unites local communities in an arena that attracts worldwide attention. The stunning beauties who were crowned Fairest of the Fair and the smoldering good looks of Tommy Hernandez as Don Diego symbolized the hospitality of the San Diego County Fair, whose historic roots began humbly in the genteel port town of National City, just 10 miles north of the Mexican border. That 1880 inaugural autumn fair, initiated by developer Frank A. Kimball, showcased citrus, agriculture, and horses. Today the 22nd District Agricultural Association hosts the summer fair, which features international superstars, flower shows, livestock contests, exhibits, sports events, carnival rides, and its famed fast food, together with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club's racing meet, which has helped make the city of Del Mar a star-studded world-class destination with a colorful history.

For nearly seventy five years, summertime at Del Mar Racetrack has been a place for fun and entertainment, a place, as Eddie Read said, where nobody's in a hurry but the horses." Since its founding by Bing Crosby and his Hollywood friends in 1937, Del Mar has hosted some of thoroughbred racing's finest: from dancing Zenyatta and scrappy Seabiscuit to San Diego's own hall-of-famers Best Pal and Azeri. In this collection of vignettes, celebrated turf writer and San Diego sports journalist Hank Wesch recalls noted jockeys, infamous matchups, and the best of Del Mar."

"Where the Turf Meets the Surf" entered horseracing lore after the 22nd District Agriculture Association (DAA) established a 241-acre fairground at Del Mar that included a stadium and one-mile oval racetrack in the 1930s. The venue gave an enterprising trio the impetus to bring thoroughbred racing to the San Diego County coast. The Del Mar Turf Club was led by Harry Lillis "Bing" Crosby, Pat O'Brien, and Bill Quigley. A DAA contract to hold a 55-day annual racing season was secured, and on opening day, July 3, 1937, the velvet-voiced "Der Bingle" greeted the first patrons at the gate. Racing established the Del Mar name beyond California, but it was suspended in 1942 for World War II. The Marines moved in and the Del Mar Turf Club Aircraft Division formed to manufacture wing ribs for B-17s. Racing reopened in 1945 to continued success under the direction of Del Mar Thoroughbred Club president Joe Harper.

Throughout its history, Oakland has been a haven for horse enthusiasts. Clubs held frequent horse shows and social events, and riders were seen galloping along roads that led to the beautiful trails of Joaquin Miller, Redwood, and Anthony Chabot Parks. United by a shared passion, traditional cowboys and cowgirls continue to ride alongside English-style riders at the remaining local stables. Capture a glimpse into Oakland's rich equestrian history during the hayday of horses.