SUMMER LIVING : Vacations in...

North County will be the site of several international, national and local sports events this summer. Here is a preview of some of what’s to come in the months ahead.

* Tennis Classic--Jennifer Capriati, Gabriela Sabatini, Zina Garrison, Conchita Martinez and Pam Shriver are just a few of the professional tennis players competing in the 1992 Mazda Tennis Classic Aug. 24-30 at the La Costa Resort & Spa. The tournament’s purse consists of $225,000 with a first place prize of $45,000. Mazda Motor of America will present the tournament winner with a 1992 Mazda Miata. The tournament format will include a singles draw of 28 and a doubles draw of 16. Ticket prices range from $12 to $28. Proceeds will benefit Tennis Patrons Assn. of San Diego, Sharp Hospitals Foundation and the National Foundation of Wheelchair Tennis. For ticket information, call 438-LOVE.

* Thoroughbred Racing--Del Mar’s 53rd summer of thoroughbred horse racing opens for its 43-day run on July 29 at the Del Mar Race Track. Races are held each day except Tuesday and post time is 2 p.m. Highlighting the races is the second annual $1-million Pacific Classic on Aug. 30. The mile and a quarter race for 3-year-olds and up will be the final race in the American Championship Racing Series and the focal point for a one-hour special by ABC-TV. Admission for Grandstand seating is $2.50. Clubhouse admission is $5, but does not include seating. Parking is $2 for general, $3 for preferred and $10 for valet. The season ends Sept. 16.

* Triathlon--The City of Carlsbad’s Parks and Recreation Department presents its 11th annual Carlsbad Triathlon and Tri-Fair Festival July 11-12. The festival, featuring triathlon accessory booths and a fitness expo, will be held from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 11. At 7 a.m. July 12, all triathlon competitors will meet at South Tamarack State Beach to begin the race, comprising a 1K swim, 25K bike ride and 5K run. Spectator admission to the triathlon and festival is free.

* Bodysurfing Contest--The City of Carlsbad presents its 14th annual Bodysurfing Contest Aug. 8-9 at Carlsbad State Beach at Pine Street. The first heat begins at 7 a.m. both days. Interested participants can enter the contest up until 5 p.m. Aug. 5 at Harding Community Center, 3096 Harding St., Carlsbad. Cost is $11. Spectator admission is free. For information, call 434-2989.