Lot # 2757: 1905 Opening of Belmont Park Program

Rarely seen program from the grand opening of Belmont Park in Elmont (Long Island, New York) on May 4, 1904. According to news reports, roughly 40,000 people were in attendance. The first race of the day, the $1500 Belmont Park Inaugural, was won by 7-1 Blandy, who held off 100-1 longshot Oliver Cromwell. August Belmont II, the namesake of the Belmont Stakes and Belmont Park, owned Blendy. Later that month, Blendy ran in the Belmont Stakes (the first year Belmont Park held the race and the final leg of the Triple Crown) and finished second to the filly Tanya. The program's (3.5 x 8 inches) pages have completely split from the spine, but are all present. Additional condition flaws include mild discoloration, chipping, and creasing. Poor condition overall.