California's 22nd District Agricultural Association BOD, which runs the state-owned Del Mar Fairgrounds, yesterday "approved a plan" to add fall horse racing dates in both '14 and '15, according to Joe Tash of the DEL MAR TIMES. The expanded season could "put San Diego in the running for hosting the Breeder’s Cup." Del Mar Thoroughbred Club President & GM Joe Harper will "lead a delegation to New York this week to make a pitch for hosting the prestigious racing event" in October '15. In addition to the expanded schedule, a $3.7M project to "widen the racetrack’s turf course to 80 feet -- another prerequisite for hosting the Breeder’s Cup -- will begin after the conclusion of this year’s summer race meet in September." He added that the California Coastal Commission and the State Racetrack Leasing Commission "also must approve the expanded race schedule." Harper said that it is "difficult to predict if the Del Mar racetrack’s bid to host the Breeder’s Cup will succeed, but he’s taking no chances -- he’ll bring video testimonials" from former San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders and Saints QB Drew Brees, who played for the Chargers from '01-05. Harper said that Del Mar "has a lot going for it ... including great weather, plenty of top hotels and restaurants and a spectacular setting." Harper: “I think we’re looking very attractive to the Breeder’s Cup" (DEL MAR TIMES, 6/5).
