Today is opening day at Arlington Park, the International race course in my hometown. Arlington Park is one of the most important landmarks in Arlington Heights and has been an integral part of the community for decades. "The Track" as the locals call it is a popular social destination not only for the excellent horse racing but for the concerts and special events which are planned throughout the year. Arlington burned to the ground in 1985 in a spectacular fire that the entire village could see for miles around and opened the next year in tents before it could be rebuilt. That summer was my first job, selling hot dogs trackside in a sweltering hot tent. I've enjoyed the track almost ever summer since and it's also a favorite destination of my kid who likes to choose the horses I bet on. I'm planning on heading over this afternoon to bet on a few ponies and enjoy a cold beer.
Here is a video of the first Arlington Million (the 1st million dollar purse in racing history) ran at Arlington in 1981. Jockey Bill Shoemaker won on John Henry in a come from behind victory. Enjoy!
For more information on The Track, check out their website http://www.arlingtonpark.com/
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