Arapahoe Park hopes to ride the recent Triple Crown excitement along the Front Range when the Aurora track opens its season Saturday.
Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird, co-owned by Yuma native and Colorado State graduate Leonard Blach, has helped inspire western horse racing fans with his longshot victory at Churchill Downs followed by a runnerup showing at the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown.
“There is a lot of excitement at this track because of Mine That Bird,” Arapahoe Park announcer and television presenter Craig Braddick said. “What he has done is really lifted southwest racing and Colorado racing, and I think the racing is going to be more exciting because the level of competitiveness has been increased. It’s really inspired a lot of people.”
Arapahoe Park will have racing every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, plus Memorial Day on Monday, through Aug. 9. All post times are 1 p.m., and off-track betting is available at Havana Park, Mile High Racing Park and the Mile High Event Center.
Braddick announced several new developments for Arapahoe Park.
“Within the next few days the Governor (Bill Ritter) is signing a bill to allow us to simulcast dog racing around the country, and the proceeds will help fund horse racing next year at Arapahoe Park,” he said. “That will raise purses substantially next year, and maybe even for the latter half of this year.
“We also have a bitter mix of thoroughbred, Arabian and quarter-horses and will have at least those three kinds of horse racing every day. We will mix them in altogether.”
Lastly, Braddick said Arapahoe Park guests will have the opportunity to discuss their picks with simulcast viewers.
“Members of the public can come on our handicapping show an hour before racing and share their picks with everyone around the country who is watching on simulcast,” Braddick said. “It’s like a guest handicapper.”
Mike Chambers: 303-954-1357 or mchambers@denverpost.com
