Thousands drawn to Arlington Million for pageantry, fashion - and betting
It was a sensory treat for thousands of horse racing enthusiasts and first-time visitors from all over the world experiencing the 34th running of the Arlington Million Saturday at Arlington International Racecourse.
From the smell of beer, popcorn, hot dogs, cigarettes and cigars, to the heart-thumping sound of hoofs pounding the dirt as crowds cheered wildly, to the sight of top hats and trendy dresses - it's a spectacle like no other in the suburbs.
"It's the closest (thing) we have to the Kentucky Derby," said Tammy Ambrosia of Hoffman Estates, who along with husband, Tony, donned industrial western steam punk attire for the races.
"We're having a good time," said the 51-year-old retired math and science teacher. "I enjoy the hats and dressing up."
It was girls' fashion day for five women from one Portage, Wisconsin, family who donned white and black Sunday church-style hats for their annual Million outing.
"For our family, it's nostalgia because we used to race horses as kids locally," said Michelle Ableman, 47, adding her sister Sheri, 51, is a former jockey who won several regional races.
"We are no longer in the sport but we still love it," Ableman said.
While most people are drawn to the betting, many come to the Million for the pageantry.
Suzy Buckley Woodward of Miami saw it as a business opportunity. It was her first time showcasing an array of modern hats imported from all over the world at the Million. Woodward said she was inspired to start her designer millinery business, Shapoh, after winning the Kentucky Derby fashion contest in 2013.
"Kate Middleton has really brought them back ever since her wedding," said Woodward speaking of the Duchess of Cambridge who married Prince William of United Kingdom. "You can't get hats like this in America."
For some, watching the horses was incentive enough to spend all day at the races.
"I just like the atmosphere," said Michael Mitchell, 74, of Elk Grove Village, who used to ride horses as a kid growing up in Marion, Illinois. "I don't bet very much money at all. It's a nice turnout and the weather's been really nice."
Ben Morrissey, 17, of Glenview, said watching the horses is entertaining and fun. Though he doesn't follow the favorites that closely, he bets on horses by name and the odds, he said.
"It's a nice day with my family," said the soon to be senior at New Trier High School in Winnetka.