Santa Anita Hosting Red Cross Fire Evacuation Point

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Santa Anita Hosting Red Cross Fire Evacuation Point
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Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt
Morning training at Santa Anita Park last fall before the Breeders' Cup

With the Bobcat fire ravaging over 11,000 acres in the Angeles National Forest only miles to its north, Santa Anita Park has been established as an emergency evacuation point by the American Red Cross for people affected by the fire. The temporary facility, set up inside gate 5 during the evening of Sept. 8, offers supplies, and Red Cross staff can assist with securing lodging.

As of late morning Sept. 9, the fire remained north and largely away from communities in the foothills, though officials and residents are concerned about the possibility that Santa Ana winds could drive the fire toward populated areas, such as the city of Arcadia, where Santa Anita is located.

Aidan Butler, the executive director of California racing operations for The Stronach Group, which operates Santa Anita, said late Wednesday morning that the fire posed no immediate risk to the track or its backstretch. A greater concern is to those who live in the general area, which includes some track employees and horsemen.

He cited the track's open area, access to water trucks, and sprinklers in its barns that should ensure safety for those on-site.

Butler said only a "trickling" of people utilized the Red Cross facility Tuesday night, though volume could increase if mandatory evacuation orders are issued. On Wednesday morning, Arcadia suggested residents from a specific area—north of Foothill Boulevard and east of Santa Anita Avenue—voluntarily evacuate, citing an abundance of caution.

"I am hoping (the Red Cross facilities) don't get used because if they get used, it means we've got bigger problems," Butler said. "It's kind of surreal. We spent last night looking up at the hills, and you could see flames licking across the top of the hills."

In the midst of the nearby fire activity, many horsemen and their runners are returning to Santa Anita after the completion of the Del Mar meet, which wrapped up Sept. 7. 

Los Angeles County officials have warned of diminished air quality caused by smoke and ash from the fire. Air quality will continue to be monitored for the welfare of the horses who train at Santa Anita, Butler said.

There is currently no racing at Santa Anita. Its autumn meet begins Sept. 19.