Positive reactions for Del Mar surface

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Del Mar, CA (Sports Network) - Even before Wednesday's opening of the 72nd season of racing at Del Mar, there are words of praise for the historic track's artificial main surface. Track superintendent Richard Tedesco is the man who oversees the Polytrack surface.

This is Tedesco's second year as Del Mar's track superintendent and that alone has brought kudos from trainers.

"I'm a real fan of Richard Tedesco," said trainer Mike Mitchell. "I understand track management here is giving him complete control and that's good. After last year I'm sure he knows what needs to be done for consistency (regarding) watering, harrowing and he's going to do what he thinks is best.

"Another thing I like about him is that he comes to the trainers and riders, asks for their input. He's willing to listen."

Trainer Mike Machowsky also feels comfortable being at the San Diego-area track with Tedesco supervising the racing surface.

"It's the first time I've ever come this early," said Machowsky, who was among the first stables to arrive. "But with the closing of Santa Anita for major repairs and Richard Tedesco being in charge here, I felt real comfortable coming down and getting my horses ready here."

Del Mar, "Where the Turf meets the Surf", is using the synthetic compound as the main track for the fifth season after being required by the California Horse Racing Board. Only Santa Anita, where Tedesco formerly worked, has a dirt track among the state's four major racetracks.

Del Mar will run through Wednesday, September 7 highlighted by the $1 million Pacific Classic on Sunday, August 28.