(The Diamond Solitaire crowd after a win by our gal. I’m on the far right, alongside my friend Eric Halstrom / Photo by Coady Media)

Editor’s Note:

Over the past few years, I have developed a deep respect for and friendship with Eric Halstrom, the Vice President and General Manager of Horseshoe Indianapolis Race Track & Casino. Simply put, he is one class act.

He works hard. He works day and night to try and improve racing. He works to improve the sport and promote the game. And, you can always see the improvements he brings to the racing venue and racetrack just outside Indianapolis. The turf surface is one of the best in the country. The dormitories on the backside are accommodating to the workers. The improvements to the track’s apron area give fans a new covered area to watch and wager.

He loves his work, too. On a rare off day, where does he and his lovely bride go? To a racetrack nearby to watch and celebrate the game as a fan.

And, he loves his family and his community. Without a second thought.

To give honor to his Dad, who served in this country’s great military before his graduation to the sky above us, Eric Halstrom annually salutes and holds fund raisers to benefit veterans in the Indianapolis area. There’s not an event he doesn’t support. There’s not a time he doesn’t show up.

His passion for giving back inspires us all. And, to support Eric and his amazing dedication, I will start a bet that I will play most every day for this year’s extended meet. I will keep an accounting. And, at the end of the year, I will donate all the proceeds to the charity of Eric’s choosing to help our military folks in that area.

The losses will be mine. On my dime.

The wins we will stockpile. They will be the charity’s dimes.

Here’s hoping we have a great year.

And, without further adieu, here’s the Opening Day bet:

I will wager $5 across the board on #7 in the first race. 

Let’s go.