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Calder reopens as Gulfstream Park West A new era in Florida racing begins Wednesday when the inaugural Fall Turf Festival is run at Gulfstream Park West, formerly known as Calder Race Course. The Fall Turf Festival will be operated by the management of Gulfstream Park. More than $2.5 million has been invested so far in the 44-day boutique meet which will attract many of the country's top stables, including Todd Pletcher, Nick Zito, Bill Mott, Chad Brown, Eddie Plesa Jr., Marty Wolfson, David Fawkes, Wesley Ward, Ralph Nicks and Christophe Clement. Parking and admission is free. The first floor grandstand and paddock view concession stand have been cleaned and painted and will be open. What was formerly a smoker's lounge on the first floor has been sanitized and will serve as a horsemen's lounge and VIP section. First race post is 1:05 p.m. (EDT) through November 1. First race post will be 12:35 p.m. (EST) beginning November 2. Racing will be conducted Wednesday through Monday with the exceptions being October 15 and November 10, 12, and 24. There will be live racing on Veterans Day, November 11. There will be a limited simulcast wagering menu at Gulfstream Park West on live race days and simulcast wagering will end after the last race from Santa Anita. Gulfstream Park will remain open throughout the Fall Turf Festival for all simulcasts. Gulfstream, which is leasing the racing facility as part of a six-year agreement with Churchill Downs, has not only cleaned and re-branded the front side but has also refurbished the dormant turf course and done extensive renovations on 15 barns. "Our agreement is going to allow us to rejuvenate the fall racing season in Florida with quality horses and quality racing," said Gulfstream President Tim Ritvo. "We have spent considerable time and energy making changes at Gulfstream Park West not only for the horsemen but also the fans. While Gulfstream will remain open for simulcasting, we want the local community to feel welcome and comfortable at Gulfstream Park West. "The Stronach Group's initiative is to improve racing for the fans. horsemen and breeders over the long-term." The 44-day boutique meet will feature 23 stakes races worth a total of $1.775 million. Highlights include the $600,000 Sunshine Millions Preview Day, featuring eight $75,000 stakes races for Florida-breds, on November 8 as well as the $100,000 Tropical Turf Handicap and $100,000 My Charmer, both Grade 3 events, on November 22. Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com
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