Athletically trained horses, outrageous but charming hats and, of course, the thick sense of competition in the air is back and, better yet, fans are able to enjoy it in person this year -- the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club has returned and welcomed guests under limited capacity.
The highly anticipated summer event was forced to shut out the public in 2020 due to the pandemic but with COVID-19 vaccines widely available, the race was open to ticketholders just like years prior.
From stunning views of the seaside racetrack to impressive threads on guests, here are images from this year's event:
22 photos
1/22
The Paddock at the Del Mar Racetrack is where horses get saddled before they hit the track.
2/22
Those with the most extravagant and beautiful hats compete for the top title during the Opening Day Hat Contest.
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4/22
Layers upon layers for this hat-aficionado.
5/22
Todd Strain
A racegoer dons her purple best on this fine Friday afternoon.
6/22
Audra Stafford
NBC 7 reporter Audra Stafford sports a pristine, purple hat for the occasion.
7/22
This ensemble screams “where the turf meets the surf.”
8/22
Colorful outfits are perfect for summer racing season.
9/22
A hat dedicated to members of the military.
10/22
A hat dedicated to members of the military. The photos are military service members from the hat-wearers family.
11/22
Friends compete against each other in the Del Mar Opening Day Hat Contest, but it’s all in good fun!
12/22
This hat was made with all real flowers!
13/22
14/22
A little coordination makes this feathery hat pop!
15/22
The Paddock at the Del Mar Racetrack is where horses get saddled before they hit the track.
16/22
Whether you’re competing in the hat contest or not, bringing your hat game to the races is a must.
17/22
Hat expert Christine A. Moore says fascinators, hats and hatinators are all fabulous trends for the races.
18/22
SkyRanger 7
An eagle-eye view of the Del Mar Racetrack, courtesy of SkyRanger 7.
19/22
All quiet on the racetrack front before the first post at 2 p.m. on Del Mar Opening Day.
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SkyRanger 7
The stars of the race appear relaxed hours before the big event.
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SkyRanger 7
SkyRanger 7 captures aerial images of the Del Mar Racetrack.
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SkyRanger 7
Racehorses take a breather at the Del Mar Racetrack before the main event.
