[westcoastinvader]

And as to Pleasanton getting days, I have the minority opinion that the ambience of the Pleasanton track could really catch on in Saratoga like fashion.

Now for credibility perspective, I've probably personally attended racing at off the top of my head 30 to 40 venues....maybe more.

Other than Saratoga, Pleasanton is the only venue I know that affords the opportunity to walk a few short residential blocks from a unique and quaint downtown to attend the days's races. It's a heckuva lot easier to navigate Pleasanton's track, restaurants and clubs than it is at Del Mar....that's for sure. No shortage of supply and diversity of hotels and motels....and much easier than what I've encountered at Saratoga. Also, very quietly there are three morning commuter trains that stop immediately adjacent to the track coming from the east, and three more evening trains coming from the south west.

And Pleasanton also has the element of inherent history. It's the oldest mile track in North America, dating to 1859. It's got the obligatory Seabiscuit training connection.

As to scenery, I've always said that the view of the area from that grandstand is quietly one of the very best in thoroughbred racing. My entire life I heard that Santa Anita was beautiful due to the proximity of the mountains. What no one told me though, was that it's a rare day the LA area air quality will allow the mountains to be seen from the track.

From the Pleasanton grandstand there's a beautiful full view of 3,800 foot Mount Diablo in addition to a continuous view to the west of part of the coastal range and Pleasanton Ridge.

Anyhow, I just think Pleasanton has more potential to be successful...and a nice experience.... than many.