We Almost Had Another

Belmont Park was always a place Mike and I said we should go someday. Located in Elmont, NY, it's just minutes from my grandparents' house, and every year when the Belmont Stakes rolled around, we said we had to get out there sometime to see some races. Unfortunately, that day never came. This year, on the spur of the moment, I got the idea to head down to the big race once I found out it wasn't off-limits as far as getting in was concerned. After all, it is still a racetrack. So, early on the morning of June 9, Mike's sister, Susan, and I (with fashionable racing hat in tow) got in the car and made our way to Long Island. Once we got to the track parking lot around 2PM, shuttle buses were there to bring us right up to the entrance of the track. We were shocked at how easy and seamless it was. Races had already been happening for several hours, so we assimilated well into the party atmosphere and enjoyed what was going on around us. The big race wasn't until about 6:45 that evening, so we filled the day with watching the other races, having snacks and several adult beverages. We also caught up with one of my college friends and his family, who were also enjoying a day at the race. As the big race drew closer, we placed our bets, including some "by proxy" bets from Dad C. and Uncle Bill in Florida. Since the favorite and potential Triple Crown winner, I'll Have Another, was scratched from the race the day before due to an injury, I bet my lucky number nine, Paynter, who was also the new race favorite. Susan and I had learned how to jockey (no pun intended) for position around the standing-room area before each race, so we had a perfect view at a bargain price. We managed to get right up behind the seats before the big race. As the race was getting ready to start, we could feel the excitement building. The crowd was an interesting mix of upper-class snobs and degenerate gamblers. God bless America. Before we knew it, the horses were assembled in their gates and they were off! Paynter was an early stand-out, holding the lead for the vast majority of the race, until horse number three, Union Rags, began making its move. By the finish line, Union Rags was the winner, and I was out 20 bucks. Susan, however, picked the winner and scored some cash, which we later turned into a dinner date. I am glad we decided to make a spur-of-the-moment decision to go to the race. It was a great experience to have, and a nice distraction from the day-to-day doldrums of life. I only wish Mike was able to be there with us. He would have enjoyed it.