Friday, April 29, 2011

A Day at the Races


Some girls are satisfied with plastic replicas, but our two need the real deal. Horses. Right behind missing their friends, they miss the horses they used to ride in Costa Rica. Naturally, when we heard about the race track in Phoenix, we set aside a day to check it out.

Turf Paradise was established in 1956. It is a handsome, retro facility with modern upgrades and ultra plush grounds set against rugged mountains. While there are club areas and finer dining, we were completely satisfied with the grandstands. The girls were able to see the live action right off the track and enjoy the pre-race viewing where they each picked their favorites to win.

Of course, lots of people were there, studying the statistic books, eager to bet on a winner. For us, watching the animals and taking in the views was a perfect way to spend an afternoon, no cash prize required. I imagine there is a certain thrill added when you've placed a bet, but our experience proved you certainly don't have to be a gambler to enjoy a day at the races.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

Are you going back for Derby Day? I wonder if they dress up and wear all the hats and gloves like they do here.

I always like an excuse for a really spectacular hat. The Royal Wedding? HAT-TASTIC!

Susan said...

Very happy for you.