Opening day at Arlington Park: How you can own a horse
Celebrating in the winner's circle after your horse crosses the finish line has been a privilege allotted to a small group of people — until now.
As Arlington International Racecourse celebrates opening day of the 2016 racing season today, the track is also launching the Arlington Racing Club, which lowers the price to enter the world of horse racing.
For $500 each, 70 people will share ownership, care and expenses for a thoroughbred that will race at Arlington this season, according to Howard Sudberry, the track's marketing and communications director.
“This allows a large group of people to experience horse ownership without the normal expenses,” Sudberry said.
Each owner will get free admission and parking, barn tours, and email and blog updates on their horse. They can visit during morning workouts and join the horse in the winner's circle when it succeeds.
Officials plan to pick a horse and have it racing at Arlington Park by June 1. Although the first group of 70 is already sold out, Sudberry said they would consider starting a second ownership group if there was enough interest.
“People are really enthusiastic about it. I think it's one of the coolest things we've done,” Sudberry said.
The new plan comes as track officials said declining interest in horse racing has been changing the industry.
“We haven't given up on racing. We are still very committed to racing and rebuilding the sport,” said General Manager Tony Petrillo.
“This is one way we're doing that. It will introduce people to the look and feel of owning a horse along with the thrill and victory of winding up in the winner's circle at a more affordable cost.”
The inaugural Arlington Racing Club is just one way park officials are hoping to drum up more interest in the 74-day 2016 racing season, which is full of other promotions aimed at drawing big crowds all summer long.
Opening weekend alone — with free entry today, mint juleps and a hat contest for Kentucky Derby Day on Saturday and a Mother's Day celebration on Sunday — is expected to bring in 60,000 people, Sudberry said.
“We're going to have great crowds and unbelievable entertainment,” Sudberry said.
And, it won't just be horses taking to the track during opening weekend. Exotic animal races featuring ostriches, camels and zebras will take place between thoroughbred races, he said.
On Sunday, every mom will receive a rose and the nonprofit “Cabs for the Cure” will be there to raise awareness for breast cancer and provide patients with transportation to their cancer treatments.
The rest of the season is filled with familiar events like the July 3rd Fireworks, Chicago Bears Day on July 10, Sunday Family Days which include pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting and a bouncy house, as well as Friday night Parties in the Park with later racing, appetizer deals and live music. It all leads up to the 34th running of the Arlington Million on Aug. 13.
New events on the 2016 calendar include:
• State Fair Family Day (May 29): The classic elements of a traditional state fair along with family day activities and live kids' concert.
• Horses and Hounds (June 18): A portion of the gate will go to participating animal shelters. Adoptable dogs and information on how to help retired racehorses will also be available.
• Singles Social (June 25)
• Little Super Heroes Family Day (June 26): With family day activities and a live kids' concert.
• Christmas in July Family Day (July 31): Christmas-themed fun, family day activities and a live kids' concert.
• Luck of the Irish (Aug. 20): Irish music and performances, and test your luck with a $40 drink package.
• Art in the Park (Aug. 27): An exhibition of local artists throughout the park.
• Family Day Luau (August 28): With family day activities and a live kids' concert.
“People come here for the racing, but they come back because they have such an amazing time at Arlington Park,” said Alyssa Ali, marketing manager for the track.
“We want to make Arlington the best entertainment destination it can be for all our visitors all summer long.”