Enhanced Security for Breeders' Cup

Racing fans attending the Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships during the Oak Tree meeting at Anita Park on Saturday, October 25 are encouraged to plan ahead and arrive early in order to ensure they have no unnecessary delays entering the Arcadia track for the event.

The recommendation comes from Arcadia Police Chief Dave Hinig, who is coordinating the Breeders' Cup security team.

"Enhanced security precautions will be in place on Breeders' Cup Day and we are recommending that people plan their day accordingly and arrive early," said Hinig.

Santa Anita's parking lots will open at 7 a.m. and admission gates will open at 7:30 a.m. on Breeders' Cup Day. The event's Opening Ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. and the first race of the day will begin at 9:40 a.m.

In order to provide for the safety and well being of everyone involved, walk-through electronic scanners will be positioned at each of Santa Anita's admission gates.

"We will be working closely with Santa Anita's Operations and Security Departments to do everything possible to move people through the admission gates as quickly as we can in a friendly manner," said Hinig.

Hinig announced that there would be restrictions on items patrons may bring to the track. Bottles, coolers, backpacks, carryall bags, large bags or containers will be absolutely prohibited as will umbrellas, folding chairs or tables, Frisbees, balloons, skateboards or roller blades.

"We strongly urge patrons to leave these items at home or in their cars," Hinig said. "These items will not be allowed inside the racetrack."

The Arcadia chief added that there would be a high-profile security presence consisting of personnel from local, state and federal agencies.

"This is truly a group effort to provide maximum security for patrons, employees and horsemen who will be at Santa Anita on Breeders' Cup Day," Hinig said. "It's the first time there has been this kind of presence at Santa Anita."

"The safety and comfort of our customers and participants are of utmost importance at this event," said D.G. Van Clief, Jr. president of Breeders' Cup Limited. "We are grateful to Oak Tree Racing Association, Santa Anita Park, the City of Arcadia Police and the state and federal agencies that are working to design and implement a highly professional security program."

The Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships consist of eight Grade I races with purses and awards totaling $14 million guaranteed. The Breeders' Cup will be presented at Santa Anita by the Oak Tree Racing Association. It will be the third Breeders' Cup presented by Oak Tree - the first two were in 1986 and 1993.

General admission-only tickets for the Breeders' Cup are $10 and can be purchased in advance at Southern California Ralphs grocery stores. They will also be available at the admission gates on Breeders' Cup Day.