| 2006-01-05
12:53:21
HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. (AP) --
Gulfstream Park begins its 2006 meeting Wednesday,
and for the second year in a row, the track
will double as a construction site.
With a complete renovation project
behind schedule, almost 1,000 workers labored
around the clock this week to prepare for the
opening. Work will continue through the meet
that ends April 23.
The track, owned by Frank Stronach's
Magna Entertainment Corp., demolished the grandstand
after the 2004 racing season and operated out
of big tents last year. Construction progress
was then delayed by hurricanes Wilma and Katrina.
"We're confident that when
we're done, Gulfstream Park will be the envy
of the world," Magna vice chairman Dennis
Mills said.
Only some areas of the track
will be complete by Wednesday -- the first-floor
clubhouse, walking ring and seats on the second-floor
terrace.
Restaurants on the second floor
are expected to be complete by Jan. 28, the
date of the $3.6 million Sunshine Millions.
Other restaurants and amenities will be phased
in throughout the meet.
Thousands of seats will be available
free of charge.
"We encourage people to
come," Mills said. "We believe people
loyal to racing will understand the environment
here is evolving."
Gulfstream canceled Friday's
races to have two days to prepare for Saturday's
program, which will feature three stakes races.
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