Seeing live horse racing has always been special to me. You see I have been going to Monmouth Park for the last 40 or so years. Growing up my father would take either me or the whole family a couple of times every summer to Monmouth Park. One of my father’s passions was betting on the ponies. To be honest most times he ended up losing but that did not matter to him, as the thrill of going to see live racing and a beautiful park enticed him.  We lived in Staten Island, New York, which is approximately a 45 minute drive to Monmouth Park. To most people that would seem a short commute. If you knew my father he considered that a long commute- hah. Because of his bad vision he really did not like driving long distances- at least long distances in his view. So for him to go several times every year was no small feat.

My father could bet on the races- grab a beer or two, get a dog and be happy. You see if you do what pleasures you in life that is what really matters. When I go to Monmouth Park now I always remember my father and the times we had together there. It will always remain a special place in my memories of him. And next time I go to Monmouth Park I will bet on the races- grab a beer or two, get a dog and be happy.