Breeders’ Cup not just prestigious – it’s a serious boost to San Diego economy

The Breeders Cup World Championships at Del Mar Racing Club File photo by Jamey Price Eclipse Sportswire Breeders Cup Fall is typically a time when tourism in the San Diego region begins to slow But thanks to the Breeders Cup which starts Friday in Del Mar the region is receiving a major jolt both economically and in global exposure The Breeders Cup known as the Super Bowl of horse racing is expected to generate at least million for the regional economic system according to economists and financial analysts cited by the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club s Vice President of Finance Mike Ernst So while all eyes will be on a two-day field that includes Sierra Leone Fierceness and Journalism Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner Sovereignty however has been scratched and will not run due to a fever hotel owners restauranteurs and more will be counting the cash as it rolls in during the championships The million figure includes spending by out-of-town visitors chosen from around the globe participants global media and more over the two days of racing A substantial portion of that flows into local and regional hotels short-term rental properties and other entertainment venues and also to various local provision providers from caterers to florists to furniture rentals In addition the Breeders Cup an international event is broadcast in more than countries exposing millions of horse racing fans across the globe to coastal San Diego s scenery and beliefs The edition of the Cup delivered a vital boost to not just to Del Mar but the surrounding area with attendance of over The Breeders Cup is in Del Mar for the second consecutive year a rarity for the event which is also run at Santa Anita Park near Los Angeles and Keeneland in Lexington Kentucky Since the first time Del Mar hosted the races the event has been held here four times compared to just twice for Santa Anita and Keeneland and once at Churchill Downs in Louisville Kentucky In about million in purses and awards was paid out during the two days of races according to Del Mar Thoroughbred Club President Josh Rubinstein But that amount is but a fraction of the millions bet last year when the event set a wagering record of million Breeders Cup administrators reported The Del Mar racetrack also benefits on the shoulder days surrounding the Breeders Cup when heightened attendance elevates race revenues Trainers and horse owners from across the country are known to schedule horses around the championship dates In addition horses bred in a record countries are entered this year In all horses from abroad are expected to race Friday and Saturday out of a total of entries according to the Breeders Cup Tickets starting at remain available on the event website The Associated Press contributed to this overview