Breeders' Cup Blog

Long-haul travel always carries a sense of anticipation, and as guests made their own way to London Heathrow, excitement was already building. With online check-in complete and passports and ESTA documents at the ready, the journey across the Atlantic was about to begin. Once bags were checked and security cleared, there was time to relax in departures before boarding a flight bound for California.

Just after lunchtime, the aircraft lifted off from Heathrow, beginning the journey west. Eleven hours later, with time seemingly compressed by good company and the promise of sunshine, we touched down in San Diego.

Our home for the next five nights was the Pendry Hotel, a sleek and stylish base in the heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. Surrounded by lively streets, restaurants, cafes, and bars, the location could not have been better. With several dining options in-house, a rooftop pool overlooking the city skyline, and relaxed social spaces, the hotel set the tone for a memorable stay.

Thursday was dedicated to discovering San Diego at leisure. With breakfast options available locally, guests headed out to explore one of the most appealing cities on the US West Coast. From the waterfront and harbour to Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter, there was no shortage of sights to take in. Some opted to take advantage of the hotel’s car hire to explore further afield, while others preferred a slower pace, soaking up the city’s laid-back atmosphere. That evening, the group came together for a relaxed dinner at Rustic Root, just a short walk from the hotel, where good food and conversation officially kicked off the weekend.

Friday marked the first of two highly anticipated race days. The group transferred to Del Mar Racecourse for Future Stars Day. The journey north offered a glimpse of California’s coastline before arriving at one of the most picturesque racecourses in the world. Reserved seating in the Stretch Run grandstand provided excellent views of the action, and the afternoon unfolded with top-class racing in a vibrant setting. As the sun dipped lower, the group returned to San Diego, already looking ahead to what was still to come.

Saturday raised the bar even higher. Champions Day at Del Mar brought together elite horses and jockeys from across the globe for the Breeders’ Cup, a true highlight of the international racing calendar. Once again, the Stretch Run grandstand proved the perfect vantage point, with access to the parade ring and nearby food and drink concessions adding to the experience. The atmosphere was electric as championship races played out one after another, delivering a day that will live long in the memory.

Sunday offered a welcome chance to slow the pace. With no fixed schedule, guests enjoyed San Diego in their own way, perhaps hopping on the iconic trolley tour to explore the city’s many districts, or revisiting favourite spots discovered earlier in the trip. Later that evening, the group reunited for a final dinner, the perfect opportunity to reflect on an exceptional few days and share favourite moments from both the racing and the city.

All too soon, Monday signalled departure day. An incredible five-night stay, experiencing world-class racing, sunshine and sightseeing.