# Del Mar Kicks Off Summer Meet and Remains a Leader in Thoroughbred Racing Continuing to be one of the most prestigious destinations in horse racing in its 87th season. - **Source:** [Forbes - Business](https://brifing.si/source/e0310925-a7af-4d4b-80a7-c80d400e49fa) - **Published:** 2026-07-16 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/27c16211-12f6-4eca-9c57-02c8228508ba ## The History and Significance of Del Mar Del Mar Racetrack has been hosting horse racing enthusiasts since 1937. Famous for its Pacific Ocean views, this track is a must-visit for both fans and horse owners. What started as Bing Crosby's dream now hosts some of the world's most prestigious races. ## A Gathering Place for Stars Del Mar has been a hotspot for celebrities since Hollywood's golden age. But the real stars have been legendary horses like Seabiscuit and American Pharoah. The races held here have always been at the pinnacle of excitement and competition. ## Opportunities for Young Talent Del Mar offers an ideal environment for the development of two-year-old horses. Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert emphasizes how the excellent weather conditions and high-quality races here contribute to the training of young horses. ## Success with 47 Million Visitors Del Mar has welcomed over 47 million visitors since its opening. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and unique atmosphere make it indispensable for horse racing fans. Additionally, festivals and events held here attract new visitors. ## Safety and Fairness at the Forefront Del Mar prioritizes safety and fairness in horse racing. With stables for 2,000 horses and one of the safest racetracks in the world, it's a magnet for horse owners and trainers. Figures like Erin Bailey work hard to maintain these values. ## The Start of the Summer Meet The summer meet, starting on July 17th, will continue until September 7th. Del Mar remains a leader in the horse racing world with 37 stakes races this season. As Bing Crosby said, 'There’s a winner in every race and a smile on every face at Old Del Mar.' ## Sources covering this story - https://www.forbes.com/sites/dannybrewer/2026/07/15/del-mar-begins-summer-meet-and-remains-a-leader-in-thoroughbred-racing/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._