Trevor B Johnson Millinery.

Diego Hat

Del Mar Racetrack: High-stakes, High-society

Luxury Gaming: From the prize-winning thoroughbreds and high-stake races to the flamboyant hats and free-flowing hemlines, the Del Mar Racetrack boasts a pageantry all its own. Since its inception in 1937, the Del Mar Racetrack has served as a playground to some of the world's most recognizable faces. Back in their heydays, notables such as the legendary Bing Crosby and the infamous Jimmy Durante helped put the track on the map and ultimately turn it into what it is today—a place where young and old, middle and upper class can partake in some all-American festivities.

While the racetrack is accommodating to all walks of life, it is the behind-the-scenes action and lavish lifestyle, which we know appeals to our readers. So this year rather than battling the crowds at opening day, throwing elbows to place bets, or missing an entire race while stuck in an endless restroom line, we decided to experience the track in a way that would make Bing himself proud.

LAUNCH DEL MAR RACETRACK SLIDESHOW

We knew we had arrived as the smell of freshly-cut cigars blended with the (surprisingly pleasurable) aroma dé equine lingered in the crisp coastal San Diego air. If I had been anywhere else—say a rustic farm—the pungent odor of horses and their stables wouldn't seem nearly as appealing. However, something about the smell of the racetrack ignites a feeling of excitement and anticipation; and if I could bottle it up, I'd wear it everyday.

While making our way to the O'Brian gate, the plethora of valeted cars seemed strategically parked as to prepare us for what was ahead. The range of Bentleys, Phantoms and Roll Royces was few and far between, and with an ambiance reminiscent of a collector's garage, the myriad of luxury vehicles signified all that I loved about racing season.

Perched high above in the thoroughbreds' elite social society, the Turf Club represents a more refined setting, where the well-heeled crowd sips martinis and hobnobs with their own. To keep the beer guzzling rough necks at a safe distance and to ensure proper etiquette and attire is maintained, the Turf Club's door is heavily armed with a veteran watchdog. Don't get me wrong, everyone is extremely accommodating and exceptionally polite—a tasteful glimpse of civilization at its finest. The Turf Club's walls are sheathed in soft overtones; the furniture as plush as the highly trafficked carpet; and the bar as popular as the day's favorite.

As the maître de pencils his way down his coveted list, my anxiety soon turns to relief as he graciously tells one of his lackeys to show us to our table. Though the parade of oversized hats had already flooded the gates earlier in the week and the blushing Big Hat Contest winner had already been crowned, there were plenty of elegantly tailored oversized brims to be seen. Behind its private doors, the Turf Club serves as a stomping ground of sorts for those of old money, new money, and those who pretend to have money. Amidst its distinguished members, I noticed the occasional grandparent instilling their infinite wisdom and bestowing the secrets of their sophisticated lifestyle upon their unknowingly privileged heirs.

LAUNCH SAN DIEGO SLIDESHOW

After our server—who looked like he fell from the pages of GQ Magazine—took our order it was time to start picking some winners. Engulfed in my race program, with every form sold on the grounds spread before me, I hardly noticed how long it took to get my first drink. However, when the 20-something server returned with my drink in hand, flashing those pearly whites of his, my mind went elsewhere. Okay, back to my picks. Should I go with favorites Michael Baze and newcomer Joseph Talamo even though Victor Espinoza has always proved profitable? And what about Corey Nakatani? I've heard he's one to watch. My concentration was interrupted as the voice behind the loud speaker announced the day's scratches. Oh no, Sunday Dress is scratched in the fifth. I had big plans for that gelding.

As it turned out, I ended up doing pretty well thanks to the help of several phone calls to friends, who provided me with their extensive handicapping knowledge and insider information. It may have been a blessing in disguise that Sunday Dress was scratched because in that same race I won a trifecta (a box actually), and the pay out was an unexpected chump of change. Now with even more cash to place bets, I ran to the teller and found myself laughing at the sign, which read something along the lines of, "If you feel you or someone you know has a gambling problem...." Of course this didn't apply to me—perhaps those in the large transaction lines—but not me. However, temptation does surface its pretty face when you see how a $2 bet can payout on a longshot.

While the Turf Club, located on the fourth and fifth floors, provides a sweeping panoramic of the ponies, there are even more exclusive places to watch your favorite filly. Within the Turf Club, there is one Luxury Suite available daily, which can accommodate a group of 25. If you make your way though its waiting list, you can spend the day at the races in style with your own private cocktail bar, food service, stand-alone mutuel machine, television monitors, and more. The Luxury Suite can be booked for $1,200 per day.

For the most elite and avid track-goers, the Skyrooms and Celebrity Suites can be reserved for the entire racing season. These posh suites can accommodate your entire entourage and feature balconies overlooking the track, buffet menus, a private mutuel clerk, an abundance of television monitors, and not to mention air-conditioning.

With a history so vast and varied, Del Mar's prestigious surfside racetrack has earned itself a reputation as being among the top racetracks nationwide. From Bing Crosby's celebrated rendition of "Where the turf meets the surf" to its monumental $1 million Pacific Classic (instituted in 1999) the Del Mar Racetrack has been a staple in San Diego for as long as one can remember. These days, the introduction of the new $9 million polytrack, comprised primarily of silica sand, fibers, recycled rubber—and a secret ingredient known only by the developer—has created quite a buzz in the world of racing. Del Mar is the fourth racetrack nationwide to install the synthetic surface and now meets the California Horse Racing Board's guidelines just in time for the 2007 season.

The 7-inch high polytrack is said to provide a more firm footing, making it safer for the horses and jockeys. While in the Winners' Circle, I inconspicuously used my heel to test its density and found that the substance, resembling recycled waste, was in fact as loose as packed dirt. An insider shared a secret she described as being so helpful it should be sold. For those fortunate enough to get so close that the composite sticks to your heels, the hot air from a blow dryer is the perfect remedy to melt away the clinging rubber.

Whether you make it to the Turf Club or better yet a Skyroom, the Del Mar Racetrack remains a choice locale for not only San Diegans but race fans worldwide. And with a slogan like "Where the turf meets the surf," nothing compares to Del Mar with its seaside gaming, beautiful people, and old Hollywood essence.

For LxM Christina Stewart

About the Author

Find more stories like this at www.justluxe.com

San Diego Chargers Hard Hat $36.99 Whether your team is 'under construction' or 'rock solid'- this San Diego Chargers Hard Hat will keep you safe and covered or serve as a great addition to your collection! Features official team name and logo decals.

San Diego Padres Hard Hat $36.99 Whether your team is 'under construction' or 'rock solid'- this San Diego Padres Hard Hat will keep you safe and covered or serve as a great addition to your collection! Features official team name and logo decals.

San Diego Hat Company - WFH7768 (Black) - Hats $21.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - WFH7768 (Black) - Hats: Illuminate your fall wardrobe donning this chic San Diego Hat Company hat. ; Super-stylish bowler hat with bow detail at side. ; Interior sweatband offers cool comfort. ; 100% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 20 in

San Diego Hat Company - WFH7768 (Ivory) - Hats $21.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - WFH7768 (Ivory) - Hats: Illuminate your fall wardrobe donning this chic San Diego Hat Company hat. ; Super-stylish bowler hat with bow detail at side. ; Interior sweatband offers cool comfort. ; 100% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 20 in

San Diego Hat Company - CTH3248 (Olive) - Hats $16.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - CTH3248 (Olive) - Hats: Make it a carefree day wearing this casual San Diego Hat Company hat. ; Corduroy cadet with contrast stitching. ; Interior sweatband and lining offer cool comfort. ; 100% cotton. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 22 in

San Diego Hat Company - CTH3422 (Camel) - Hats $21.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - CTH3422 (Camel) - Hats: Bundle up in this gorgeous San Diego Hat Company faux fox fur hat. ; Lush interior offers outlandish comfort. ; 100% acrylic. ; Lining: 100% polyester. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 23 in

San Diego Hat Company - WFH7756 (Grey) - Hats $21.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - WFH7756 (Grey) - Hats: Serenade your sweetheart with a ukelele and some vocal bravado wearing this devastatingly handsome San Diego Hat Company fedora. ; Wide hat band. ; Interior sweatband offers cool comfort. ; 100% wool. ; Spot clean only.

San Diego Chargers Trooper Hat $13.99 Protect your head and ears in the cold- blustery weather by wearing this San Diego Chargers Trooper Hat from Reebok. It's made of super soft polyester fleece with sherpa lining and displays the full color team logo embroidered on the front.*Officially licensed by the NFL Officially licensed by the NFL

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3060 (Red) - Hats $11.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3060 (Red) - Hats: Lodge in style wrapping yourself in this warm San Diego Hat Company headband. ; Bow detail at side. ; 76% acrylic, 12% mohair, 12% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 16 in

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3150 (Grey) - Hats $16.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3150 (Grey) - Hats: Enjoy those beautiful winter days donning this cozy San Diego Hat Company knit beanie. ; Hand-crocheted beret with pom-pom detail at crown. ; Stretch to fit. ; 70% acrylic, 30% wool. ; Spot clean only.

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3136 (Brown) - Hats $14.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3136 (Brown) - Hats: Escape the fast-pace life and enjoy the scenery of snow-capped mountains as you hit the slopes wearing this San Diego Hat Company beanie. ; Heathered knit beanie design. ; 100% acrylic. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 18 in

San Diego Hat Company - CTH3088 (Black) - Hats $16.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - CTH3088 (Black) - Hats: Put a playful twist on your casual ensemble with this San Diego Hat Company girlish newsboy cap. ; Oversize bow adds femininity. ; Lined with 100% cotton for comfort. ; 55% linen, 45% cotton. ; Imported.

San Diego Hat Company - CTH3088 (Brown) - Hats $16.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - CTH3088 (Brown) - Hats: Put a playful twist on your casual ensemble with this San Diego Hat Company girlish newsboy cap. ; Oversize bow adds femininity. ; Lined with 100% cotton for comfort. ; 55% linen, 45% cotton. ; Imported.

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3082 (Taupe) - Hats $19.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3082 (Taupe) - Hats: Experience the cool factor this season wearing this cozy San Diego Hat Company beanie. ; Cable-knit design with pom-pom details at side. ; Twisted ties. ; 73% acrylic, 27% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 22 in

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3130 (Taupe) - Hats $16.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3130 (Taupe) - Hats: Be the cutest snow bunny wearing the knit San Diego Hat Company beanie. ; Cable knit beret with pom-pom detail at crown. ; Stretch to fit. ; 70% acrylic, 30% wool. ; Spot clean only.

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3156 (Oatmeal) - Hats $21.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3156 (Oatmeal) - Hats: Be the cutest snow bunny wearing the knit San Diego Hat Company beanie. ; Cable-knit beret with pom-pom detail at crown. ; Stretch to fit. ; 70% acrylic, 30% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 18 in

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3114 (Navy) - Hats $14.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3114 (Navy) - Hats: Combat the harsh winter elements with this supreme San Diego Hat Company beanie. ; Knit beanie with a striped design. ; Stretch to fit. ; 100% cotton. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 24 in

San Diego Hat Company - KNS2910 (Charcoal) - Hats $34.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNS2910 (Charcoal) - Hats: Enjoy the simple pleasures of the season wrapping up in this cozy San Diego Hat Company knit scarf. ; Cable-knit design. ; Features front hand pockets. ; Fringed ends. ; 100% acrylic. ; Spot clean only.

San Diego Hat Company - KNS2910 (Grey) - Hats $24.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNS2910 (Grey) - Hats: Enjoy the simple pleasures of the season wrapping up in this cozy San Diego Hat Company knit scarf. ; Cable-knit design. ; Features front hand pockets. ; Fringed ends. ; 100% acrylic. ; Spot clean only.

San Diego Hat Company - KNS2910 (Olive) - Hats $34.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNS2910 (Olive) - Hats: Enjoy the simple pleasures of the season wrapping up in this cozy San Diego Hat Company knit scarf. ; Cable-knit design. ; Features front hand pockets. ; Fringed ends. ; 100% acrylic. ; Spot clean only.

San Diego Hat Company - KNS2910 (Oatmeal) - Hats $34.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNS2910 (Oatmeal) - Hats: Enjoy the simple pleasures of the season wrapping up in this cozy San Diego Hat Company knit scarf. ; Cable-knit design. ; Features front hand pockets. ; Fringed ends. ; 100% acrylic. ; Spot clean only.

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3156 (Charcoal) - Hats $24.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3156 (Charcoal) - Hats: Be the cutest snow bunny wearing the knit San Diego Hat Company beanie. ; Cable-knit beret with pom-pom detail at crown. ; Stretch to fit. ; 70% acrylic, 30% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 18 in

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3156 (Olive) - Hats $21.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3156 (Olive) - Hats: Be the cutest snow bunny wearing the knit San Diego Hat Company beanie. ; Cable-knit beret with pom-pom detail at crown. ; Stretch to fit. ; 70% acrylic, 30% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 18 in

San Diego Hat Company - KNH3082 (Brown) - Hats $19.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - KNH3082 (Brown) - Hats: Experience the cool factor this season wearing this cozy San Diego Hat Company beanie. ; Cable-knit design with pom-pom details at side. ; Twisted ties. ; 73% acrylic, 27% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 22 in

San Diego Hat Company - CTH3330 (Charcoal) - Hats $24.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - CTH3330 (Charcoal) - Hats: You'll look all kinds of cool in this wicked hat! ; Wide band culminates in a bow on the side. ; 100% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Imported.

San Diego Chargers Knit Hat: Oatmeal Cuffed Pom Knit Hat $10.99 You don't have to be yodeling in the Alps to show your true San Diego Chargers team spirit with this San Diego Chargers Knit Hat: Oatmeal Cuffed Pom Knit Hat. Featuring a flat embroidered San Diego Chargers logo on the cuff and a chunky pom knit to top off the hat. This San Diego Chargers hat will certainly make a fine addition to your Chargers wardrobe collection. 100% Acrylic Oatmeal with team color series Jacquard pattern on crown Solid color cuff Variegated pom Machine washable and easy to wear Officially licensed by the NFL

San Diego Hat Company - EBH9724 Floppy Hat (Denim) - Hats $29.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - EBH9724 Floppy Hat (Denim) - Hats: A ruched hat band and frayed brim edge give this San Diego Hat Company Chambray Floppy hat a decidedly retro feel! ; Wider brim for enhanced sun protection. ; Colorful lining for a surprise pop of color and comfort. ; 70% cotton, 30% linen. ; 22.5 circumference. ; Imported. ; Circumference: 22 1 2 in

San Diego Hat Company - WFH7798 Floppy Hat (Black) - Hats $41.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - WFH7798 Floppy Hat (Black) - Hats: With a subtle nod to the past, you can easily bring your look into the here and now with this tantalizing San Diego Hat Company™ Wool Felt Floppy! ; Floppy hat with wide hat band and feather accent at side. ; Brim provides protection from the sun's rays. ; Interior sweatband offers cool comfort. ; 100% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Imported. ; Circumference: 24 in

San Diego Hat Company - WFH7798 Floppy Hat (Wine) - Hats $41.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - WFH7798 Floppy Hat (Wine) - Hats: With a subtle nod to the past, you can easily bring your look into the here and now with this tantalizing San Diego Hat Company™ Wool Felt Floppy! ; Floppy hat with wide hat band and feather accent at side. ; Brim provides protection from the sun's rays. ; Interior sweatband offers cool comfort. ; 100% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Imported. ; Circumference: 24 in

San Diego Hat Company - UBX2717 (Brown) - Hats $24.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - UBX2717 (Brown) - Hats: Take your shih tzu for a walk on a sunny afternoon in this San Diego Hat Company Ultrabraid XL Hat. ; Allover striping for a hypnotizing finish. ; Braided hat band features a high-shine buckle detail. ; Logo sweatband for all-day comfort. ; 75% paper straw, 25% polyester. ; 23 circumference. ; Imported.

San Diego Hat Company - EBH9726 (Natural) - Hats $19.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - EBH9726 (Natural) - Hats: Your favorite bucket hat gets an ultra-chic update in this San Diego Hat Company Paperbraid Boater. ; Floral hat band adds feminine charm. ; Logo sweatband for all-day comfort. ; 100% paper straw. ; 23 circumference. ; Imported. ; Circumference: 23 1 4 in

San Diego Hat Company - CTH3404 (Grey) - Hats $19.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - CTH3404 (Grey) - Hats: Your brave style stands out wearing this distinct San Diego Hat Company hat. ; Cadet-style hat with heathered design. ; Eyelets at sides. ; Hook-and-loop back strap for a personalized fit. ; Interior sweatband dispenses cool comfort. ; 80% polyester, 10% wool, 10% viscose. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 22 in

San Diego Hat Company - CTH3292 (Denim) - Hats $24.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - CTH3292 (Denim) - Hats: This San Diego Hat Company Patchwork Newsboy Hat will lend some casual fun and stylish cool to your outfit! ; Frayed hat band culminates in an oversized button. ; Patterned floral lining adds cuteness and comfort. ; 100% cotton. ; 24 circumference. ; Imported. ; Circumference: 24 in ; Product measurements were taken using size . Please note that measurements may vary by size.

San Diego Hat Company - CTH3420 (Black) - Hats $19.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - CTH3420 (Black) - Hats: Rock your style to the next level wearing this distinct San Diego Hat Company hat. ; Stroller-style fedora. ; Hat band culminates at side. ; Interior sweatband and lining offers cool comfort. ; 80% polyester, 10% wool, 10% viscose. ; Lining: 100% cotton. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 23 in

San Diego Hat Company - WFH7776 (Charcoal) - Hats $29.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - WFH7776 (Charcoal) - Hats: Equally as proper as it is playful, this captivating San Diego Hat Company™ will get along famously with your personality! ; Cloche hat features adorable floral hat band. ; Short brim provides protection from the sun's rays. ; Interior logo sweatband offers cool comfort. ; 100% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Imported. ; Circumference: 24 in

San Diego Hat Company - EBH9676 (Black) - Hats $26.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - EBH9676 (Black) - Hats: Top off your ensemble with this marvelous San Diego Hat Company hat. ; Brim offers fashionable protection from the sun. ; Matching hat band with contrast stitching and button accent. ; Lovely interior lining provides all-day comfort. ; 50% wool, 44% polyester, 6% spandex. ; Lining: 100% cotton. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 25 in

San Diego Hat Company - CTH3364 (Brown) - Hats $19.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - CTH3364 (Brown) - Hats: The party doesn't start until you walk in wearing this dapper San Diego Hat Company hat. ; A-crown fedora with classic plaid design with matching hat band. ; Brim offers fashionable protection from the sun. ; Lush interior sweatband provides all-day comfort. ; 40% wool, 60% polyester. ; Spot clean only. ; Circumference: 25 1 4 in

San Diego Hat Company - WFH7818 (Grey) - Hats $29.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - WFH7818 (Grey) - Hats: Striking a vintage look with modern sensibility, the San Diego Hat Company Cloche With Sheer Lace has just the right amount of personality to complement your breathtaking outfit! ; Cloche hat with hat band culminates in bow at side. ; Short brim offers protection from the sun's rays. ; Interior logo sweatband provides all-day comfort. ; 100% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Imported. ; Circumference: 24 in

San Diego Hat Company - WFH7806 (Black) - Hats $24.99 6pm.com is proud to offer the San Diego Hat Company - WFH7806 (Black) - Hats: When the weather begins to cool, heat up your fashion with the marvelous San Diego Hat Company™ Womens Wool 6 Way Felt hat! ; Bucket hat features elegant trim. ; Brim provides protection from the sun's rays. ; Interior logo sweatband offers cool comfort. ; 100% wool. ; Spot clean only. ; Imported. ; Circumference: 24 in