Beyer on Pimlico

[Rudeboyelvis]

Originally Posted by Conrad

One could say the same things about FairGrounds in New Orleans:

>ancient track now situated in basically a ghetto
>it was rebuilt after the fire a few decades ago but is sorely lacking in many areas...too few betting windows and concessions...La Derby day there is a nightmare
>their property is also limited from expansion due to the surrounding neighborhood (there was talk of a 6.5-7f chute being built but there's no room at FG, it would basically hit Gentilly Blvd.)
>place survives basically because of one massive event held there every year...Jazz Fest

This is incorrect. Absolutely no problem at all placing a bet, grabbing a beer or finding an open restroom. None. In absolute contrast to Gulfstream on Florida Derby day which is a complete and utter nightmare.

I've been to worse tracks than the Fairgrounds, and having been to both the
Florida Derby (many times) and the Louisiana Derby (once), I'd take the LA Derby hands down every time.

They can't help the neighborhood it's in, (Pimlico isn't exactly situated in the Beverly Hills of Baltimore, by a longshot) and while it may be dated, it certainly seems clean and well-maintained.

[Conrad]

Originally Posted by Rudeboyelvis

This is incorrect. Absolutely no problem at all placing a bet, grabbing a beer or finding an open restroom. None. In absolute contrast to Gulfstream on Florida Derby day which is a complete and utter nightmare.

I've been to worse tracks than the Fairgrounds, and having been to both the
Florida Derby (many times) and the Louisiana Derby (once), I'd take the LA Derby hands down every time.

They can't help the neighborhood it's in, (Pimlico isn't exactly situated in the Beverly Hills of Baltimore, by a longshot) and while it may be dated, it certainly seems clean and well-maintained.

Admittedly, I haven't been to the LaDerby since Mission Impazible won a few years ago, but I always remember it being a total nightmare. I was there the year Fifty Stars won and no one could bet the race on track.
I have to get in line to wager as soon as the horses leave the paddock because there were simply too few windows, and too many novices trying to use the SAM machines and holding everything up.
On the 2nd floor there is literally about 5-6 live tellers on either side of the paddock...or at least there used to be.

[Sightseek]

Originally Posted by Rudeboyelvis

This is incorrect. Absolutely no problem at all placing a bet, grabbing a beer or finding an open restroom. None. In absolute contrast to Gulfstream on Florida Derby day which is a complete and utter nightmare.

I've been to worse tracks than the Fairgrounds, and having been to both the
Florida Derby (many times) and the Louisiana Derby (once), I'd take the LA Derby hands down every time.

They can't help the neighborhood it's in, (Pimlico isn't exactly situated in the Beverly Hills of Baltimore, by a longshot) and while it may be dated, it certainly seems clean and well-maintained.

I was there for the Risen Star stakes a few years ago and had the same experience. I highly recommend the Fair Grounds. I've definitely seen worse tracks.