A Swedish Day at the Races

Vasa members and friends enjoy live thoroughbred horse racing at Golden Gate Fields in Berkeley. 

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• On May 20, 2017, a crowd of happy Vasa members and friends enjoyed live thoroughbred horse racing at Golden Gate Fields in Berkeley, California. The spectacular day featured the pageantry of the 142nd running of the Preakness Stakes telecast live from Pimlico in Baltimore, Maryland.

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• Guests were treated like royalty, with valet parking and reserved seating in the luxurious Golden Gate Fields Turf Club with a panoramic view of the paddock and race course. Everyone enjoyed a wonderful buffet that included roasted prime rib and ham, baked cod and fried chicken, salads, vegetables and French desserts, all elegantly served in the club dining room.

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• Black-Eyed Susans, the official drink of the Preakness consisting of orange and pineapple juice, light rum, orange liqueur and Swedish Absolut Vodka, complemented the wonderful cuisine and camaraderie among Vasa brothers and sisters.

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• Unequivocally, this was a beautiful day to remember, filled with luck for some and excitement and fun for all!

• If you're close and missed out, mark your calendar and join next year's event, which is on Saturday, May 19, 2018: A Day At The Races at Golden Gate Fields with VOA District #12.

• Jim Melin