The prestigious Santa Anita Park is set to host the inaugural California Crown event on Saturday, September 28, marking a significant moment in the horseracing calendar. Organized by 1/ST in collaboration with The h.wood Group, the event promises to be a high-stakes affair, offering a total of $3 million in purses. But the California Crown is more than just a horseracing event; it’s a convergence of top-tier racing, star-studded entertainment, and luxury experiences that redefine the traditional race day.
A $3 Million Prize Pool and Major Racing Stakes
At the heart of the California Crown are three major races, headlined by the newly introduced $1 million California Crown (GI). This race is set to replace the former Awesome Again Stakes, elevating the event’s prestige within the horseracing community. The other key races include the $750,000 California Crown John Henry Turf (GII) and the $750,000 California Crown Eddie D Turf Sprint (GII). These races will be held on Santa Anita Park’s iconic downhill turf course, noted for featuring the only right-hand turn in American racing—a unique aspect that adds to the event’s allure.
The California Crown is a crucial component of 1/ST’s Grand 3 $25 million racing and incentive series. This series, which also includes the renowned Preakness Stakes and the Pegasus World Cup, offers substantial bonuses for winning horses. Specifically, a $5 million bonus awaits any horse that triumphs in all three races of the series, underscoring the high stakes and competitive nature of the event. In addition, a $2.5 million bonus is on the line for turf race winners who can claim victories in the Dinner Party Stakes, the California Crown John Henry Turf, and the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational.
Star-Studded Performances and Entertainment
The California Crown is not just about horseracing; it’s a full-scale entertainment experience. Attendees will be treated to live performances by a lineup of renowned artists, including Gryffin, Lil Yachty, and Shaboozey. These performances are designed to enhance the festive atmosphere, blending the excitement of live music with the thrill of top-level racing.
Gryffin, known for his melodic dance tracks, is expected to bring an energetic vibe to the event, while Lil Yachty’s unique blend of hip-hop and pop will appeal to a wide audience. Shaboozey’s performance will add another layer of diversity to the musical offerings, ensuring that the event caters to a variety of musical tastes.
Luxury Hospitality: A Collaboration with The h.wood Group
Adding to the event’s allure is the collaboration with The h.wood Group, a Los Angeles-based hospitality company known for its luxurious and trendy establishments. For the California Crown, The h.wood Group will curate exclusive hospitality experiences, including the Delilah Trackside Terrace Box Seats and Funke Premium Box Seats. These premium seating areas will offer guests unparalleled views of the races, along with gourmet dining experiences curated by top chefs.
The Delilah Trackside Terrace, inspired by The h.wood Group’s renowned Delilah restaurant, promises to deliver a chic and sophisticated setting, where guests can enjoy the races in style. Similarly, the Funke Premium Box Seats will provide an exclusive environment, complete with tailored service and premium amenities. These offerings are designed to attract a discerning crowd, blending the excitement of live racing with the comfort and luxury of a first-class hospitality experience.
The ‘Photo Finish’ Best-Dressed Competition
Fashion enthusiasts attending the California Crown will have an additional reason to dress their best. The event will feature a ‘Photo Finish’ best-dressed competition, offering $25,000 in prizes. This competition encourages attendees to showcase their fashion-forward styles, adding a sartorial flair to the day’s proceedings.
The emphasis on fashion is in line with the broader trend of horseracing events becoming social and cultural spectacles, where attendees are as much interested in seeing and being seen as they are in the races themselves. The ‘Photo Finish’ competition is expected to draw participation from some of the most stylish individuals in attendance, further elevating the event’s profile.
A Trophy to Remember: Partnership with Chrome Hearts
The California Crown has also partnered with Chrome Hearts, a luxury brand known for its high-end jewelry, accessories, and home goods, to create the official championship trophy. This collaboration reflects the event’s commitment to excellence and luxury, ensuring that the winning horse’s connections take home a trophy that is as prestigious as the race itself.
Chrome Hearts’ involvement adds a layer of exclusivity and prestige to the event, aligning with the brand’s reputation for craftsmanship and attention to detail. The trophy is expected to become a coveted prize, symbolizing not just victory on the track but also the pinnacle of style and luxury in the world of horseracing.
Expanding Horizons: The Tabcorp Partnership
In October 2023, 1/ST announced a significant partnership with Tabcorp, an Australian wagering and entertainment company. This collaboration allows Tabcorp to offer fixed odds and tote betting on 1/ST Content’s racetracks, expanding its international racing offerings. The partnership is expected to bring a new dimension to the California Crown and other events within the Grand 3 series, enhancing the betting experience for international audiences.
Tabcorp’s involvement underscores the global appeal of the California Crown and the broader Grand 3 series. By offering betting options on an international scale, the partnership is set to attract a wider audience, increasing the event’s reach and impact.
Ticketing and Access: From General Admission to Premium Experiences
The California Crown offers a range of ticketing options designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. General admission tickets are priced at $25, making the event accessible to a broad audience. However, for those seeking a more exclusive experience, premium ticket options are available, ranging from $750 to $15,000.
These premium tickets provide access to various levels of luxury, including gourmet dining, exclusive seating areas, and other high-end amenities. The tiered pricing structure ensures that there is something for everyone, from casual racegoers to those seeking a full VIP experience.
The California Crown at Santa Anita Park is poised to set a new standard in horseracing and entertainment. With its combination of high-stakes racing, top-tier performances, luxury hospitality, and stylish competitions, the event offers a comprehensive experience that appeals to a wide range of audiences.
As part of 1/ST’s Grand 3 $25 million racing and incentive series, the California Crown not only elevates the sport of horseracing but also integrates it with broader cultural and social trends. This event is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of sport, style, and entertainment, promising to leave a lasting impact on the horseracing industry and beyond.