A horseman's perspective
As a horseman, my family and I have had many great memories through the years. Both my children and grandchildren have celebrated many special occasions at AP. It was the go-to pick for their birthdays, anniversaries, etc. Having access to the barn area and contact with our horses made the track a great experience for all.
My most memorable day at AP was when my son and I attended the Breeders Cup in October of 2002. I was able to get a set of great tickets in front of the winners circle. My son Bill was ecstatic when I told him I had tickets for the Cup in a prime location. He was 28 at the time and recovering from recent cancer surgery. He was about halfway through an extremely difficult chemotherapy regime. He was weak and feeling lousy most of the time, but there was no way he was missing the Cup!
We went that day, stayed for the entire race card and even won a few bucks. I knew it was difficult for him that day, but he never complained.
The highlight of the day was when the TV cameras, I believe from NBC, were focused on a horse in the winners circle and my son and I were shown clearly in the background on live TV. Family and friends lit up our phones to tell us they could see us on TV.
My son had lost all of his hair due to chemo but chose not to wear a hat so friends who hadn't seen him for a while were shocked at his appearance. Thank God and his wonderful doctors he is still cancer free today!
The track will be missed by my family. Visiting AP was always a great time for all. Sad to see it go.
Bill Collopy
Arlington Heights