Charles H. Strub

Charles Strub

Charles H. Strub (1884–1958) was an American dentist, businessman, and one of the key figures in the development of the Santa Anita Park, a thoroughbred horse racing track in Arcadia, California. Strub's contributions to the sport of horse racing and his innovative business practices have left a lasting legacy in the industry.

Early Life and Education

Charles Henry Strub was born in 1884 in San Francisco, California. He pursued higher education with a focus on dentistry, eventually earning his degree and starting a practice in San Francisco. His early career was marked by success in his field, but it was his ventures outside of dentistry that would define his legacy.

Career in Horse Racing

In the early 1930s, during the Great Depression, Strub saw an opportunity in the legalization of pari-mutuel betting in California. Along with his partners, including movie producer Hal Roach and businessman William Workman, Strub set out to create a premier racing venue in Southern California. In 1934, Santa Anita Park opened its doors, quickly becoming one of the most iconic horse racing tracks in the United States.

Strub was instrumental in introducing several innovations at Santa Anita Park that would become standard in the industry. He was a pioneer in the use of starting gates for races and the implementation of photo finish technology to determine race outcomes. Additionally, Strub was known for his marketing acumen, significantly increasing the popularity of horse racing in the region.

Legacy

Charles H. Strub's impact on the horse racing industry and the broader sporting world is significant. Santa Anita Park remains a pivotal venue in American horse racing, hosting numerous prestigious events, including the annual Santa Anita Derby and several editions of the Breeders' Cup. His vision and entrepreneurial spirit transformed the landscape of the sport, making it more accessible and popular among the American public.

Strub's legacy is also commemorated through various awards and honors, including the Charles H. Strub Stakes, a race held annually at Santa Anita Park. His contributions to the development of the park and the sport of horse racing have been recognized by his induction into various halls of fame within the industry.

Death and Memorials

Charles H. Strub passed away in 1958. His death marked the end of an era for Santa Anita Park and the horse racing community. However, his innovations and contributions continue to influence the sport. Memorials and tributes to Strub can be found at Santa Anita Park and in the annals of horse racing history, ensuring that his legacy endures.