Flight of the Flamingos

There are some beautiful thoroughbred racetracks, including of course Santa Anita, where the backdrop of the mountains is exceptional. It is truly spectacular to see horses come flying out of the shoot in front of that Hollywood-esque background.

Hialeah in Florida was, in its heyday another glorious setting for racing. After the seventh race, they featured the flight of the flamingos in the infield. Some poor soul would rouse up the dozens of pink birds and classical music would be piped through the loud speakers. A little hokey, yes. But it was one of those things you remember.

And for those who worry about "keeping" flamingos in captivity, trust me, no birds were more lovingly cared for. If not, why did they hang around since they clearly could have flown away.

Anyway, Hialeah has been dark since 2001 and the historic track pretty much abandoned. The flamingos are long gone, but recently there have been signs of life, as the track prepares to open November 28 for a Quarter Horse only 40 day meet, through February 2, 2010.

There is the possibility that Hialeah will be able to resume its role as the Grande Dame of Florida thoroughbred racing, but that fate remains in the hands of politicians. The object is to include slot machines in its rebirth, but one would hope that it would be done in a way that preserves some of the track's charm and dignity.

For now, according to Bloodhorse.com, horsemen are being treated like royalty as they prepare for the Quarter horse meet. All reports are that they are equally fond of the dirt track's consistent quality. The track expects to host concerts and other promotions on dark days.

Quarter horse races range from 220 yards to 1,000 yards and the longest ones are around only one turn. Quarter horses fly--seriously, this is extreme speed--and are known for their sprinting abilities.

Let's hope that this meet is a sign of true rebirth at the Florida track! And that those flamingos make their return.