On September 28, 2024, 1/ST, in partnership with The h.wood Group, launched the inaugural California Crown at Santa Anita Park. This new event blends horse racing, entertainment, and luxury, marking a new tradition for the West Coast.
Hosted by Belinda Stronach, Chairman and CEO of 1/ST, and John Terzian, Co-Founder of The h.wood Group, the event welcomed VIPs such as Beyoncé, Cher, JAY-Z, Sharon Stone, and more.
The main highlight of the day was the California Crown (GI) presented by SirDavis American Whisky, where Argentina’s Subsandor, ridden by Mike Smith and trained by Richard Mandella, claimed victory. Alongside a $1 million purse, the winners were presented with a one-of-a-kind Chrome Hearts trophy designed by co-founder Laurie Lynn Stark and Cher. The trophy, crafted from sterling silver and 22K gold, stands as a symbol of the event’s prestige and will be displayed year-round at Santa Anita Park.
The event also featured two additional stakes races, with Cabo Spirit winning the $750,000 California Crown John Henry Turf Championship (GII) and First Peace taking the $750,000 California Crown Eddie D. Stakes (GII). Wagering on the ten-race card set a record, with over $23.5 million bet, an 83% increase from the previous year. For the first time, 1/ST partnered with the Hong Kong Jockey Club for a separate pool wagering agreement, adding $5.5 million to the total handle.
The post-race entertainment was headlined by Gryffin, with performances from Lil Yachty, Shaboozey, Frank Walker, and more. The event’s exclusive areas were designed in collaboration with top LA hospitality brands like Delilah and Wally’s, offering premium dining and signature cocktails. With nearly 22,000 attendees, the California Crown successfully established itself as a premier event, combining sports, entertainment, and culture.
For more updates, follow @californiacrownofficial on Instagram and TikTok, and @Calicrownofficial on X.
