There’s something in the air when Opening Day rolls around in Del Mar. It might be the scent of fresh flowers tucked into feathered hats, the shimmer of polished shoes on turf, or the electric hum of locals who’ve been looking forward to this day all year long. Around here, it’s not just about the horses—it’s about the tradition, the style, and the social scene that makes Opening Day one of Del Mar’s most anticipated events.
For the Gellens, Opening Day has long been a favorite tradition that they share each year with friends, family, and familiar faces. From race-day fashion to trackside excitement and the view from the suite to match, it’s one of those Del Mar rituals that never loses its charm.
In this blog, we’re taking you through the track’s storied past, the Gellens’ ties to the tradition, and everything you need to know about this year’s summer season at the races.
A Brief Trot Through History: Where the Turf Meets the Surf
Photo Retrieved from San Diego Ville
The Del Mar Racetrack first opened its gates in 1937, thanks to a group of investors that included Bing Crosby and Pat O’Brien. What started as a charming coastal track quickly became a celebrity magnet. In 1940, Del Mar “established itself as a playground for the stars,” drawing big names like Dorothy Lamour, W.C. Fields, Ava Gardner, and Bing Crosby himself (Del Mar Thoroughbred Club).
Over time, the track’s reputation grew—not just for the races, but for its atmosphere. Hollywood icons roamed the paddock, mingling with locals just steps from the Pacific.
By the early ’90s, though, the original grandstand was showing its age—both structurally and in its ability to meet the needs of modern racegoers. Engineers determined it was more unsound than expected, and plans were quickly put into motion. Demolition began the day after the 1991 season wrapped, and in its place rose a 500,000-square-foot grandstand designed to meet California’s seismic codes, double the guest capacity, and enhance the experience with more ocean views, VIP areas, restaurants, and bars—all while preserving the Old Spanish Mission style Del Mar is known for (La Times).
The racetrack reopened in 1992 with a refreshed look and expanded offerings—new structure, same soul. Since that grand reopening, the Gellens have had a suite at every single Opening Day!
Today, the Del Mar Fairgrounds are owned by the State of California and operated as a not-for-profit. When the racetrack first opened in 1937, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club was formed to operate the racing season—a role it still holds today. From overseeing logistics to curating the guest experience, the club has been behind the scenes from the very beginning, helping preserve the spirit of Del Mar’s race days for generations. It’s also where the Gellens / Stubbs family stories begin to weave into the history of the track.
A Family Tradition
For Maxine, Marti, and their families, the Del Mar Racetrack has always been more than just a summer event—it’s woven into their family traditions. Maxine grew up going to the races with her father, and by the time Marti was 15, she was joining in too. Over the years, Opening Day has simply become part of the summer calendar—passed down through generations and marked with familiar faces, favorite outfits, and that first burst of excitement as the gates open.
Marti’s husband, T. Pat, worked behind the scenes with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, serving as the Director of Corporate Development. He led advertising efforts that helped shape the race-day experience for thousands of guests each season. While he was working, Marti would bring their two young sons to see him. The boys grew up surrounded by the buzz of the track, the sound of the starting bell, and the unmistakable rhythm of Del Mar in the summer.
It’s a tradition that stuck—and one Maxine, Marti, and their families have proudly carried forward, year after year. They’ll be there tomorrow, just like always—ready for the hats, the horses, and another unforgettable Opening Day!
2025 Racing Season Details
Location: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014
Opening Day: Friday, July 18, 2025
Gates Open: 11:30 AM
First Race: 2:00 PM
Opening Day might steal the spotlight, but the energy at Del Mar doesn’t stop there—it carries on through the summer. This year’s meet runs from Friday, July 18th through Sunday, September 7th 2025. Whether you’re there for the thrill of the race, the hats, the bets, or just the fun of being part of it all, there’s something about a day at Del Mar that makes summer feel complete. Don’t miss the Opening Day Hat Contest, a longtime favorite that brings out some of the most creative and over-the-top headwear of the season—and of course, placing a few friendly wagers is all part of the experience.
Final Stretch
From its star-studded beginnings in the 1930s to the packed stands of today, Del Mar Racetrack has earned its place as one of California’s most iconic summer traditions. People fly in for it. Locals build their calendars around it. Opening Day continues to bring a kind of energy you can feel the moment the gates open, and the crowd comes to life.
It’s a day that brings everyone together—and there’s no better place to be than Del Mar.
