Owner-breeder and philanthropist Paul Mellon of Rokeby Stable died at his residence in Upperville, Va. He was 91. ~1999
Jockey Russell Baze won an unprecedented 10,000th race in North America when he guided Two Step Cat to victory in the 3rd race at Golden Gate Fields. ~2008
Golden Gate Fields opened for its inaugural race meet. After a five-day "season," the track was forced to close because severe rainstorms washed out the racing surface. The advent of World War II prevented the facility from reopening until Sept. 9, 1947. ~1941