Photos - Golden Gate Fields

[robertob]

Been to the US in December and gave their racing another chance, after a rather dismal experience at Aqueduct the year before. Since I've been a couple of days in San Francisco, I went to Golden Gate Fields, which is the local track in the SFS Bay Area It is a race track very much unlike what I have encountered in Europe so far - particularly it's size is just massive! Not only the grand stand visually impressive with with its several tiers and levels; but also inside, a labyrinth of countless betting halls, rooms & betting counters. People were sitting everywhere in front of those screens, watching races from all over the country and occasionally one would get excited, shouting at the screen. In general, it was a pretty quiet place though. Such a huge track, it is natural that an attendance of somewhat around thousand doesn't really make any difference. Something like atmosphere - comparable to what we know from going racing in UK & Ireland - is non existent. However, in all fairness, it has to be stated that GGF is still a fine racing venue. You can be really close to the action, access to horses and jockey is easy - unlike at Aqueduct - and viewing in general is perfect. They race there on a Tapeta surface and the races were quite entertaining actually. Food and drinks prices were surprisingly fair, and since the sun is shining even in December down there in California, one can have a good day out at the races at Golden Gate Fields. Parade Ring

[jayalexander]

Re: Photos - Golden Gate Fields Looks like such a huge grandstand. When it's not being used, though, I just find it looks depressing. Same as with Belmont Park that I visited. Did you speak to any of the staff there?