By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

Supporters of the local chambers of commerce and the CV Sheriff’s Support Group – or just lovers of the ponies – made their way to Santa Anita Race Track on Sunday for the annual Crescenta Valley Day at the Races. For a donation of $25, participants gained access to the track, were given parking privileges and a race program, and enjoyed lunch provided by Schreiner’s Fine Sausages. Manning the grill were Eric Hamilton and Rick Dinger. There were also desserts to devour and silent auction items to bid on.

For those unfamiliar with race track wagering, Santa Anita provided handicapper Don King. King has been with Santa Anita for 16 years.

“There’s an art and science in predicting a race’s outcome,” King said. Using information provided in the racing program, he explained how he arrived at his choices in each of the nine Thoroughbred races.

A highlight of the afternoon was when representatives from the three organizations made their way to the winner’s circle for the seventh race – a race dedicated to the chambers and the Support Group. After the race, the winning horse was brought to the winner’s circle where a photo was taken with the representatives.

Though not everyone left a winner, all agreed that spending a Sunday afternoon in the California sun enjoying the Thoroughbreds wasn’t bad.

  robin goldsworthy