A Day at the Races

By Ken Bounds

On May 9 Ron Blum once again hosted our NIRG Day at the Races.  This year we went to Arlington Park Racecourse, one of the premier horseracing venues in the world.  The chilly, overcast weather did not deter the thoroughbreds, nor did it affect our group in the luxurious International Room, high over the front stretch.

The dress code for the International Room gave everyone the chance to wear some clothes that we don’t normally wear when working on our Flatheads.  The phrase “You sure clean up nice” was heard slightly more often than “What time does the bar open?”  Starting at noon we were treated to a first-class buffet and white tablecloth service.  The food was so good that we hardly had time to start looking at the racing guide in order to place bets on the first race, which went off on Arlington’s Polytrack at 1:00 p.m.

The racing action was exciting and you could hear the shouts of our group as they cheered for their picks.  “Come on Executive Coach!”  “Go Birdie’s Hondo!”  “My nag just now finished!”  One race was delayed when one of the horses broke from the gate, threw his jockey, and headed for the exit.  Joe Kozmic yelled “There goes my horse!  Do I lose my bet?”  For those wanting to brave the cold for a few minutes, Ron escorted small groups down to his company’s private box right in front of the finish line.

Those participating included our gracious hosts Ron & Arlene Blum with four of their friends as guests, Ken & Carolyn Bounds, Ben & Ginny Ashley, Don & Elaine Braun, George & Betty Cech, Earl & Gene Heintz, Paul Jensen, Joe Kozmic, Dan & Diane Pudelek, Art Russell with daughter Diane & her husband Mike, and Len & Irene Vinyard.  Everyone agreed that the food was great, the racing was fun, and a super time was had by all.  Most of us did not stay for all 11 races on the card, and as we filed out we stopped and thanked Ron for setting up a great club event.  I’m sure everyone was also proud of contributing to the Arlington Stimulus Plan.