NYRA Supports the Manhasset Bayview Civic Association

On December 18th, the Manhasset Bayview Civic Association held its 16th Annual Children's Holiday Show and Food Drive to benefit Island Harvest. NYRA was proud to sponsor this event by providing giveaways for the youth of the community who donated hours of community service to this worthwhile cause. The 2010 NYRA cap was a big hit as showcased by the Manhasset Girls softball players!

NYRA Supports Annual Holiday Dinner for the Backstretch

The Race Track Chaplaincy of New York hosted their annual holiday dinner at Aqueduct Race Track on December 13th. NYRA and NYTHA supported the event with their individual sponsorships of $2500 toward the evening's dinner, carnival and gift giving ceremony.
Happy Holidays!

NYRA Hosts Toys for Tots Campaign at Aqueduct Race Track

NYRA President and CEO, Charles Hayward, was proud to welcome back Major Chuck Kilbride and the U.S. Marine Corps as they returned to Aqueduct Race Track for the Annual Toys for Tots Campaign on December 4th and 5th. Mr. Hayward was named the 2010 Honorary Vice Chairman of the campaign and he welcomed Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, 2010 Chairman of the Toys for Tots campaign.

Mr. Hayward announced that NYRA would match ALL financial donations made by our owners and trainers to the Toys for Tots drive throughout the weekend. In the same spirit of giving, Richard Violette, President of the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, announced that NYTHA would contribute $5000.

With New York's trainer, Gary Contessa, donating 10% of whatever purse money his horses earn, as well as owner Harold Lerner's contribution of $7500, we began the weekend with $20,000 for the Toys for Tots program which collects and distributes new, unwrapped toys to children in need during the holiday season.

"Collecting for Toys for Tots has long been a holiday tradition at Aqudeuct and we believe the Foundation's work is especially important during these uncertain economic times," said Mr. Hayward. He also expressed his appreciation to all of NYRA's fans who donate toys and make personal contributions to the U.S. Marine Corps for the Toys for Tots Foundation.

NYRA President and CEO, Charles E. Hayward, Honored by the Village of Floral Park

NYRA President and CEO, Charles E. Hayward, was honored by the Village of Floral Park at their Annual Holiday Recognition Dinner on December 2nd. Mr. Hayward was presented with a citation from the Village for NYRA's generosity, hospitality, community relations and community outreach.
In addition, Mr. Hayward was presented with a plaque from the Floral Park Art League in recognition of his outstanding contributions and support.

NYRA, NYTHA and BST Contribute Funds for a Happy Thanksgiving for the Backstretch

The New York Racing Association, Inc. ("NYRA") and the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association ("NYTHA") each contributed funds to the Race Track Chaplaincy of New York for their Thanksgiving Boxes of LOVE program. Boxes filled with turkeys and all of the trimmings were distributed at Gate 6 at Belmont Park on November 23rd.

In addition, for the fourth year, the Albany-based firm of Bollam, Sheedy, Torani & Co. ("BST") underwrote the traditional Thankgiving meal for the grooms, hotwalkers and exercise riders who work at Aqueduct and Belmont Park. Meals were coordinated under the supervision of Dennis Zoitos in the cafeterias at both tracks on November 24th.

We all give thanks to them for all that they do for our industry!

Floral Park Chamber of Commerce Honors NYRA With Donation to B.E.S.T.

The Floral Park Chamber of Commerce thanked NYRA for its ongoing commitment to the local business community and honored NYRA with a donation to the Backstretch Employee Services Team at their monthly meeting on November 5th. Paul Ruchames, Executive Director of B.E.S.T., was presented with a check for $500 by Floral Park Chamber of Commerce President, Sal Bonagura. The Floral Park Chamber of Commerce recognized the important work of B.E.S.T. and the importance of the organization to the local community.

NYRA Lowlands at Saratoga Race Course was site of Saratoga Spa Cyclocross

On Sunday, October 24th, 220 athletes and 200 spectators participated in the second annual Saratoga Spa Cyclocross on the NYRA Lowlands at Saratoga Race Course. The winner, Brad Young of Corinth, NY, is shown clearing one of the barriers. The cyclocross is a style of bicycle racing that evolved in northern Europe in an effort to keep bicycle racers competing during the fall and winter. They compete off roads on muddy paths and open fields.

Andrew Bernstein, co-promoter of the event, presented a check to the Backstretch Employee Services Team (B.E.S.T.) to support the breakfast program and show appreciation to NYRA for the use of the space. The donation was made in recognition of NYRA's support of the local community and the important role that B.E.S.T. plays in supporting the backstretch workers.

NYRA Chairman C. Steven Duncker at the Ground Breaking of Resorts World New York

NYRA Chairman C. Steven Duncker joined Governor David Paterson and Genting Chairman K.T. Kim for the ground breaking ceremony for Resorts World New York casino. Elected officials, representatives of New York's gaming and racing operations as well as residents from South Queens joined them at Aqueduct Race Track for the exciting occasion.

NYRA President and CEO, Charles E. Hayward and NYRA Community Relations Director named Honorary Vice Chairmen of the 2010 Toys for Tots Campaign

NYRA President and CEO, Charles E. Hayward and NYRA Director of Community Relations, Joanne K. Adams, were named Honorary Vice Chairmen of the 2010 U.S.M.C. Toys for Tots Campaign. U.S.M.C. Major Chuck Kilbride (ret) thanked NYRA for its continued support at a kick-off luncheon at Oheka Castle. Each year, Aqueduct Race Track plays host to the Toys for Tots Campaign which is scheduled for the weekend of December 4th and 5th.

NYRA Welcomes Tuesday's Children to Belmont Park

NYRA was pleased to welcome the families of Tuesday's Children to Breakfast at Belmont. They enjoyed an early morning breakfast in the Belmont Cafe while watching the horses train on the main track. They were treated to tram tour of the backstretch and they visited the Centennial Exhibit of the 1910 International Air Show. 75 children and family members enjoyed a wonderful morning at Belmont Park! Tuesday's Children coordinates a program for the families of the victims of 9/11.

NYRA Welcomes 200 Students from Gateway Youth Outreach to Belmont Park

NYRA welcomed 200 students from Elmont's Gateway Youth Outreach after school program. The students visited the Centennial Exhibit of the 1910 International Air Show and they enjoyed viewing their mural in the Clubhouse lobby at Belmont Park. Town of Hempstead Councilman, Ed Ambrosino, stopped by to join them for their field trip.

NYRA President and CEO, Charles E. Hayward, Honored at Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce Breakfast

NYRA President and CEO, Charles E. Hayward, was honored by the Elmont Chamber of Commerce at the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce Legislative breakfast on Friday, October 16th. He received an award from the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce and he received citations from Nassau County and the Town of Hempstead for his outstanding leadership in the community. The breakfast was attended by over 500 people and over 40 Chambers of Commerce were represented.

NYRA Update with Charles Hayward, NYRA President and CEO

NYRA President and CEO Charles Hayward discusses a variety of topics, including updates on the Genting casino project at Aqueduct Racetrack and the New York City Off-Track Betting situation, a recap of the 2010 Saratoga meet, and a look at what the future may hold.

Hayward, who was appointed to his current position in November 2004, previously served as President and CEO of the Daily Racing Form and before that was the President and CEO of Little, Brown Publishing. He also held executive roles at Simon & Schuster Publishers, HP Books, and Macmillan Publishing.

A horse racing fan for more than 30 years, Hayward currently serves on the Boards of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Thoroughbred Racing Protective Bureau, Thoroughbred Racing Associations, and the Belmont Child Care Association.

NYRA Welcomes 650 Students from the Elmont Public Schools

NYRA was pleased to welcome650 third grade students from the Elmont Public Schools who visited Belmont Park on October 13th to view the Centennial Exhibit of the 1910 International Air Show. The students toured the first floor of the Clubhouse to view the mural that they presented to NYRA which hangs in the Clubhouse lobby. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to experience the rich history in their own backyard!

NYRA Hosts Floral Park Community Day at Belmont Park

The Floral Park Community Day was held in Marquee tent at Belmont Park on Sunday, October 10th. The event was attended by 700 people! NYRA welcomed the Floral Park Little League, New York State Champions, as well as the Floral Park and Covert Avenue Chambers of Commerce in addition to many other local community organizations. Village of Floral Park Trustee, Dominick Longobardi, coordinated the great with Village Administrator, Ginny Appel.
NYRA hosted the Floral Park Art League on October 9th and 10th in the Grandstand and our neighbors visited the Centennial Exhibit of the 1910 International Air Show during their annual visit.

NYRA Welcomes Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano and Board Members from the Cradle of Aviation Museum

NYRA was pleased to welcome Nassau County Executive, Ed Mangano, and board members from the Cradle of Aviation Museum for the official opening of the Centennial Exhibit of the 1910 International Air Show. They viewed the exhibit and enjoyed an exciting afternoon of thoroughbred racing. NYRA named the second race in honor of this historic event.

International Air Show Centennial at Belmont Park Opens Today

From October 8 to 17, Belmont Park will host an exhibit honoring the 1910 International Air Show, sponsored by VisitNassauCounty.com, the first international aviation meet held in the United States, which took place at the racetrack 100 years ago this fall.

To commemorate the anniversary of this historic event, The Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City has created a special exhibit featuring rare photographs, artifacts and film from the International Air Show, as well as examples of aircraft flown at the meet, including the “Antoinette,” an early French monoplane, and the ultra light “Demoiselle.”

The 1910 aviation meet assembled the world’s leading aviators and state-of-the-art aircraft to compete for $75,000 in prize money in various categories. Competitors set world records for altitude (9714 feet) and speed (61 mph) during the 10-day meet, which marked the first time many New Yorkers saw airplanes in flight.

The exhibit will be displayed at The Cradle of Aviation Museum from September 10-20, before moving to Belmont Park where it will be available for viewing during race days on the first floor of the Grandstand near the NYRA store. Admission to the exhibit at Belmont, sponsored by NYRA, the Cradle of Aviation Museum, Nassau County and the Town of Hempstead, is free with general admission to the racetrack.

About The Cradle of Aviation Museum
The Cradle of Aviation Museum has over 75 air and spacecraft that take through over 100 years of aviation history from kites and balloons to man’s first steps on the moon.
The Cradle is located on Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Museum Row in East Garden City/Uniondale area. For information call 516-572-4111 or log onto www.cradleofaviation.org.

About The New York Racing Association, Inc.
Founded in 1955, and franchised to run thoroughbred racing at New York’s three major tracks through 2033, NYRA boasts a lineage that actually stretches back almost 150 years. NYRA tracks are the cornerstone of the state’s thoroughbred business which contributes more than $2 billion annually to New York State’s urban, suburban and rural economy. In 2009, more than 1.6 million people attended the live races at NYRA tracks. Factoring nationwide off-track wagering, the average daily betting handle on NYRA races alone totals more than $9.3 million every race day. NYRA has a vast network of websites, including www.nyra.com, www.belmontstakes.com, and www.nyragroupsales.com. You can also follow NYRA on social media platforms Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, and YouTube.

NYRA Receives Gift From Elmont Public Schools

NYRA was honored to receive a three dimensional mural of Belmont Park created by the students of the Elmont Public Schools. The mural is mounted in the Clubhouse lobby for all of our fans to enjoy!

NYRA's Community Outreach Booth Raises Funds For Local Charities in 2010

NYRA is pleased that we are able to offer the Community Outreach Booth at Saratoga Race Course to local charities during the Saratoga race meet. This space provides an opportunity for these orgnaizations to join us on track to provide information about their mission and raise much needed funds.

The Saratoga Synchronized Skating Team recently contacted NYRA to thank us for the use of the Community Outreach Booth for the past two summers. They raise significant funds every year and the team does a fanatastic job decorating the booth! We are proud to showcase their talents in these photos.

Garden City Goes to the Races

The Garden City Chamber of Commerce Foundation hosted a luncheon at Belmont Park on Saturday, September 18 in honor of the Garden City Stakes. Organizations from the local community enjoyed an afternoon of exciting thoroughbred racing and cheered as Village Administrator, Robert Schoelle, and Village Clerk, Brian Ridgway, present the trophy for the G1 Garden City Stakes.

NYRA Welcomes Hannah's Hope Fund to Saratoga Race Course

NYRA is proud to welcome Hannah's Hope Fund to the Community Outreach Booth at Saratoga Race Course. This fund was established by Lori and Matt Sames to fund research for Giant Axonal Neuropathy, a neurodegenerative disease for which there is no cure. Their six year old daugher, Hannah, was diagnosed with this disease and she is in a race against time.
NYRA Senior Vice President, Dave Smukler, presented a check for $500 to the family as they presented the trophy for the second race. To learn more about the fund, please contact Matt and Lori Sames at 518-275-5359 or go to http://www.hannahshopefund.org/.

NYRA And NYTHA Salute Backstretch Volunteer Appreciation Day

The New York Racing Association and the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association are proud to honor the 2010 Backstretch Volunteers! Over 125 volunteers dedicate hours of their time to ensure that the health, social and spiritual needs of the backstretch workers are met during the Saratoga meet. NYRA and NYTHA recognized the volunteers from the Backstretch Employee Services Team ("B.E.S.T."), The Racetrack Chaplaincy, the Saratoga Equal Opportunity Council, and thanked them for their service.

Columbia Greene Humane Society Recognizes Greene County District Attorney At Saratoga Race Course

The Columbia-Greene Humane Society used the Community Outreach Booth at Saratoga Race Course to provide the public with information about their organization and they presented a plaque in the Winner's Circle to Greene County District Attorney, Terry Wilhem, for his professinal excellence in the diligent and successful prosecution and conviction of the Center Brook Farm Equine Cruelty Case.

NYRA Welcomes St. Mary's Hospital Foundation As Saratoga Springs Proclaims HEAD SMART DAY

August 25th was St. Mary's Head Smart Day in Saratoga and NYRA welcomed our downstate partner to Saratoga Race Course. Mayor Scott Johnson teamed up with NYRA and St. Mary's Healthcare System for Children in a Brain Injury Awareness and Prevention Campaign to keep Saratoga's Kids Safe and proclaimed HEAD SMART DAY in Saratoga Springs.
St. Mary's used the NYRA Community OUtreach Booth to provide information dedicated to educating children, parents, coaches and educators on how to keep their heads safe. ALL of the NYRA jockeys lended their support to the day as well.

Fabulous Fillies Day kicks off BetFair TVG Alabama Weekend at Saratoga Race Course

NYRA was delighted to dedicate a day to honor women and the glamour they bring to historic Saratoga Race Course. We were thrilled to recognize an extraordinary woman in the sport of Thoroughbred racing, 2009 Saratoga leading trainer, Linda Rice and we were proud to partner with The Breast Cancer Research Foundation ("BCRF") in an effort to raise funds for breast cancer research. Suzie O'Cain's Find A Cure Stable was also recognized for its unique mission to donate 10 percent of all earnings to the BCRF.
Over $40,000 was raised for the BCRF on Fabulous Fillies Day!! NYRA donated $10,000 which was matched by our sponsor, BetFair TVG. The New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association donated $5,000 and the jockeys donated a portion of their mount fees on the day.
The BCRF provided 25,000 pink braclets for our fans and the track was dressed in pink. Pink ribbons adorned the trees in the paddock, the NYRA flag was pink and all of the horses wore pink saddlecloths with the BCRF logo!
There was informal modeling throughout the day by luxury brand, St. John Boutique of Manhasset, NY. NYRA was delighted to personally welcome, Patricia Underwood, famous hat designer to Hollywood stars. Saratoga's very own, Saratoga Trunk, provided models as well.
A silent auction in the luxury cabana helped to raise additional funds and Claire Buffie, MISS NEW YORK, collected donations in the backyard for the BCRF.
Local radio station B95.5 organized a Women's Expo in the backyard and ESPN commentator, Jeannine Edwards, lended her support throughout the day. The Grey Goose Pink Ribbon was the signature drink of the day and our lemonade vendor served pink lemonade. A portion of the proceeds of these beverages were donated to the BCRF. And, Bettie's Cakes, donated a portion of the proceeds from their pink cupcakes to the BCRF.
Hats off to NYRA Vice President and Director of Racing, PJ Campo for carding ALL filly races on the day! Scott Johnson, Mayor of Saratoga Springs, provided NYRA and the BCRF with a proclamation which truly made it a Fabulous Fillies Day!

NYRA Celebrates The West Point Stakes at Historic Saratoga Race Course

In honor of the West Point Stakes, NYRA was proud to welcome the cadets from the Glee Club of the United Military Academy at West Point to Saratoga Race Course. The cadets sang the National Anthem early in the day and later sang the West Point Alma Mater before the stakes race.
In addition, NYRA welcomed the Friends of Ulysses S. Grant Cottage on the day. The local museum is a state historic site. President Grant graduated from the USMA at West Point and spent the last six weeks of his life writing his memoires at Grant Cottage. The local volunteers collected donations in NYRA's Community Outreach Booth and distributed information about the museum.

NYRA Hosts Thoroughbred Retirement Day at Saratoga Race Course

In honor of Thoroughbred Retirement Day, NYRA Chief Operating Officer, Harold G. Handel, presented checks for $5000 to the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, Old Friends and the Exceller Fund for their efforts in raising awareness about horse rescue and retirement.

NYRA was also pleased to welcome ReRun, Peaceful Acres and Pure Thoughts who joined us outside the Jockey Silks room where they provided informational materials about their programs and collected donations.

Earlier in the day, ESPN commentator, Jeannine Edwards, and her horse, Ashkal Way, provided a dressage presentation for our fans. Ashkal Way, formerly owned by Godolfin, began his career in Ireland. He won 7 of his 8 starts in the United States, 5 of which were at New York tracks. His earnings reach almost $800,000 before he was retired following an injury in 2007.

Jeannine Edwards took him into her care and began dressage training. Dressage is commonly referred to as horse ballet. Its goals are the "harmonius development of the physical ability of the horse, resulting in a calm, supple, and confidant animal who is in perfect understanding of his rider."

Ashkal Way is currently showing at First Level competitions and he has received a Blue Ribbon in 3 of his 4 events. According to Edwards, "Ashkal Way is proof positive that retired Thoroughbreds can and do excel at second careers."

Saratoga Race Course Celebrates Fabulous Fillies Day

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) will celebrate women and the glamour they bring to Saratoga Race Course with a special day appropriately titled “Fabulous Fillies Day” on Friday, August 20.

The day will feature a number of special events and activities designed to honor women of the thoroughbred industry while raising funds to support The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).

The first 25,000 fans through the admission gates will each receive a pink breast cancer support bracelet, courtesy of BCRF.

“Women are a central part of the summer racing season at Saratoga Race Course. We invite ladies to join us for a stylish and fun day at the track on Fabulous Fillies Day,” said NYRA Director of Community Relations Joanne K. Adams. “We look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of several extraordinary women while raising awareness and funds for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.”

The femme-friendly day will begin when breast cancer survivors and supporters are invited to gather in the Paddock for a Pink Parade. The parade, which honors the courage and perseverance of breast cancer survivors, will begin at 11 a.m.

Later that afternoon, representatives from Betfair TVG, the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (NYTHA), and NYRA will present BCRF with a combined donation of $25,000 to support the organization’s efforts to find a cure for breast cancer.

The day will also honor two of Saratoga’s leading ladies: Linda Rice and Suzie O’Cain. Rice catapulted to national recognition after winning the 2009 training title at Saratoga Race Course, making her the first woman to win the title at a major race meet. As a tribute to her accomplishments, Rice will be presented with a special commemorative plate following the day’s first race, which will be named in her honor.

The Find a Cure Stable, founded by O’Cain, will be recognized for its unique mission, through which the stable donates 10 percent of all winnings to BCRF. The stable’s jockey silks reflect its mission with a white shirt and pink sleeves, emblazoned with the iconic Breast Cancer ribbon logo. The stable will sell hats and t-shirts to benefit BCRF from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in front of the Jockey Silks Room.

NYRA Vice President of Racing PJ Campo will card several filly and mare overnight races in concert with the day’s theme. In each of the day’s corresponding races, the horses will wear pink saddle towels and grooms will be outfitted in pink jackets. Participating horsemen and jockeys have pledged to donate a portion of their purse earnings from the day to support BCRF.

Saratoga Race Course will also feature a special pink NYRA flag in flight overhead. Pink bunting, ribbons and flowers will adorn the track, including a pink flower blanket on the horse statue in the Paddock.

Beginning at noon, track guests can bid on a number of luxury items at a silent auction. Auction items include a set of Judith Ripka cushion stone earrings adorned with a honey citrine stone and diamonds from Northeastern Fine Jewelry; two reserved seats at Saratoga Race Course for the 141^st Travers Stakes on Saturday, Aug. 28; and the opportunity to shadow ESPN commentator Jeannine Edwards and receive a behind-the-scenes tour at Belmont Park the day before the running of the 2011 Belmont Stakes. All proceeds from the silent auction will benefit BCRF. The silent auction will be held in the luxury tent opposite the Jockey Silks Room until 4 p.m.

The recently crowned Miss New York will make a special guest appearance on Fabulous Fillies Day. Claire Buffie will be joined by several contestants from the Miss New York pageant to meet fans, sign autographs, and collect donations for BCRF throughout the afternoon in the backyard near the Big Red Spring. Miss New York will also co-present the trophy for the day’s race named in honor of Fabulous Fillies Day.

Hollywood hat designer Patricia Underwood, whose headpieces have been featured in the films Four Weddings and a Funeral and Sabrina, will also make a special appearance for the day. Pieces from Underwood’s latest line, as well as designer apparel and accessories from global luxury brand St. John Boutique, will be modeled from 1 to 4 p.m.

Additionally, a number of refreshments will be available in an effort to raise awareness and funds to support breast cancer research. A specialty signature cocktail, The Grey Goose Pink Ribbon, and pink lemonade will be available at various locations, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Donations to BCRF can be made throughout the day at the community outreach booth in front of the Jockey Silks Room, where BCRF executives and volunteers will be available to discuss the organization’s mission, goals and services.

Ladies are invited to stroll through the backyard to visit the B95.5 Women’s Expo, where a host of interactive exhibit and demonstrations focused on beauty, health care and leisure will be on display. The expo, located near the Big Red Spring, will be open from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expo highlights include:

• Ania Hair Studio will host the only stylists in the area certified in the Ouidad, a haircut patented specifically for curly hair.
  

• Rumors, a hair salon and spa, will showcase their specialty up-dos, the perfect accessory to complement ladies’ track attire.

• The Wesley Community will provide guests with information about a variety of elder care options available at the continuum care community, plus strategies for adapting to roles as caregivers for aging parents.

• Ellis Hospital will present healthcare information specifically for women including cardiac and neurological health, stroke prevention, maternity care and breast and pelvic health.

• Wilton Mall at Saratoga will showcase the latest in track and fall fashions.

• Arbonne International will present a line of inner and outer health and beauty products.

• American Laser Centers will feature information on laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation and cellulite reduction services.

• The Crissy Sun Catcher will have on display a product designed to protect against the sun’s harmful rays to allow you to enjoy the outdoors even on the hottest days.
• Rosebud Johnnies will showcase the latest styles in handbags.

Fabulous Fillies Day is sponsored by Betfair TVG, NYTHA and NYRA. For up-to-date information on Fabulous Fillies Day and other special events, please visit www.nyra.com/saratogaevents.

About The Breast Cancer Research Foundation

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® was founded in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder as an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to funding innovative clinical and translational research. In October 2010, BCRF will award $33 million to over 170 scientists across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia. Over the past year, more than 88 cents of each dollar donated to the Foundation went directly to breast cancer research and awareness programs. And the American Institute of Philanthropy has awarded the Foundation its highest possible rating of A+. BCRF is the only breast cancer organization to receive this accolade; and is the only cancer organization to currently hold this ranking. For more information about BCRF, visit www.bcrfcure.org.

NYRA hosts the RACE FOR EDUCATION at Saratoga Race Course

NYRA was pleased to host the RACE FOR EDUCATION at Saratoga Race Course on July 30th. In addition to using the Community Outreach Booth to provide information about their organization and collect donations, they presented their Annual Scholarship check during the trophy presentation for the Fleet Indian Stakes.

The Fleet Indian Scholarship was established in honor of Fleet Indian, winner of the Personal Ensign and the 2006 Eclipse Award, and presented to a New York student wishing to pursue a career in the Thoroughbred industry. This scholarship is personally funded by Paul Saylor.

Mr. Saylor along with Elisabeth Jensen, Executive Director of the Race For Education, were proud to present a check for $10,000 to Samantha Wheeler, the 2010 Fleet Indian Stakes Scholarship winner.

Coaching Club American Oaks Debut in Saratoga is Showcased in Style

Beautiful coaches from the 19th century adorned the entrances of Saratoga Race Course to celebrate the debut of the Coaching Club American Oaks race to this historic track this year!

NYRA opens the 142nd race meet at Saratoga Race Course

NYRA opened the 142nd race meet at Saratoga Race Course on July 23rd with the new arrival of restauranteur Danny Meyer's Shake Shack, Blue Smoke and The Paddock Bar. Located next to the paddock, this exciting new addition will allow our fans to enjoy fine fare in a beautiful setting until 9pm.
Opening weekend will feature the Saratoga debut of the Betfair TVG Coaching Club American Oaks on July 24th and NYRA will showcase this day with a display of antique coaches from the late 19th century.
NYRA is proud to offer the Community Outreach Booth for the race season. Organizations from the surrounding communities will have an opportunity to showcase their mission and collect donations on track. In addition, NYRA is proud to support our local organizations through the donation of our Community Outreach Box which has assisted in raising thousands of dollars for charity. For information about the Booth or Box, all interested parties may contact me at 518-584-6200, extension 4805.

"Kiaran's Kids" Enjoy Summer Outing at Belmont Park

Thursday was a great afternoon for a group of elementary school students from Elmont, starting with a behind-the-scenes backstretch tour of trainer Kiaran McLaughlin’s barn and finishing with a winner’s circle celebration at Belmont Park.

McLaughlin, who has hosted small groups of sixth-graders as part of an after-school program with Gateway Youth Outreach since last fall, received an expanded audience Thursday as 29 children in grades 4-6 assembled at his barn for a horseshoeing demonstration from farrier Liam Goodwin and an equine anatomy lesson and x-ray demonstration from veterinarian Kristian Rhein, DVM, CVA.

Artie Magnuson, McLaughlin’s assistant trainer, and office manager Cate Masterson toured the kids through the barn area and shared details about the thoroughbreds’ daily routine, feeding, and care.

"The program was great today and we have Kiaran, Artie and Cate to thank,” said Patrick Boyle, executive director of Gateway Youth Outreach, Inc. “It’s a relationship that we look forward to keeping up throughout the year. These kids listened very attentively to everything that they heard today and got a great lesson."

Gateway Youth Outreach supports the youth of Belmont Park’s neighboring community of Elmont, with a number of programs and services including counseling, education and recreation. Thursday’s program at Belmont Park was sponsored by Capital One, and three Capital One Community Corps volunteers also attended.

After their morning on the backstretch, the group returned to the front side for lunch at Belmont Park, then assembled in the winner’s circle to cheer the McLaughlin-trained Hatheer as she opened up in the stretch to win a first-level allowance race on the Widener Turf Course.

“It’s a lot of fun,” McLaughlin said. “Cate and Artie take a lot of time with the kids and it’s nice to see them get into the horse racing scene a little bit and see what goes on behind the fences here. We enjoy it as much as they do.”

Both McLaughlin and The New York Racing Association, Inc., were presented with honors from Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray late last year for their efforts in arranging the weekly educational sessions. Two more student groups from Gateway Youth Outreach are expected to attend similar sessions with McLaughlin planned for July 22 and 29 at Belmont Park.

Jockey Autograph Session at Belmont Park Raises $1000 For Barbaro Fund

On Saturday, June 26th, a jockey autograph session hosted by Pfizer Animal Health at Belmont Park raised $1000 to be shared equally by the Barbaro Fund for Equine Health and Safety Research and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. Jockeys who participated in the autograph session included Barbaro's regular rider Edgar Prado, John Velasquez, Javier Castellano and Mike Luzzi.

Dr. Dean Richardson, Chief of Surgery, George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, accepted a check for $37,276 which reflected the final disbursement from the NTRA Charities - Barbaro Memorial Fund.

"Barbaro's legacy was on full display on Saturday, raising money for two outstanding causes," said Barkley Porter, VP of Sales and Business Development for the NTRA. We sincerely thank Pfizer Animal Health and Belmont Park for their invaluable assistance in making the day possible."

NYRA Salutes Garden City Belmont Festival's Red, White and Blue

The theme of this year's Garden City Belmont Festival was a "Salute to America." Held on June 4th on the eve of the Belmont Stakes, The United States Air Force Band, The Afterburner, performed along with other bands along Seventh Street in Garden City. The event was sponsored by NYRA and the Garden City Hotel and hundreds turned out for family fun! A "Wing Off" contest featured delicious barbeque wings which raised money for the Molly Biggane Foundation. Resident trainers and jockeys and their families attended and were greated with great fanfare! Todd Pletcher, Tom Albertrani, John Velasquez and Javier Castellano were part of a special opening ceremony which was kick-off by Sam the Bugler.

NYRA sponsors the Floral Park Art League's First Annual Equestrian Art Compeption

The Floral Park Art League held its Annual Outdoor Art Show on Belmont Stakes weekend, June 5th and 6th. The show was held in Memorial Park at the Floral Park Village Square and was sponsored by NYRA. Over a dozen member artists exhibited their oil paintings, watercolors and pastels which were displayed along the traditional winding path through the lovely park.
Prior to the opening of the show, members were invited to enter the First Annual NYRA Equestrian Art Competition, and over twenty entries were submitted and judged.
The winner was Nancy Fabrizio for her entry entitled"Stable Chores." Nancy was presented with a certificate of recognition and a NYRA frame which I was very pleased to present to her. "We are grateful to the New York Racing Association for their sponsorship of this event and for their help and support of the cultural affairs and artistic community of Floral Park and the surrounding areas. We wish to thank Joanne Adams, NYRA's Community Relations Director, for her personal attention to and support of our outdoor show," stated Teresa Musolino, President of the Floral Park Art League.

NYRA Salutes the Chamber of Commerce of Floral Park on a Fabulous Belmont Stakes Festival

The Floral Park Chamber of Commerce coordinated a fabulous Belmont Stakes Festival on Friday, June 4th on the eve of the Belmont Stakes on Tulip Avenue. Sponsored by NYRA and the Floral Park Chamber of Commerce, hundreds turned out on a beautiful evening to enjoy great music and fabulous food! NYRA salutes the Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Floral Park on a superb event!

NYRA Jockeys Annual Visit to Ronald McDonald House of Long Island

Earlier today, NYRA jockeys visited the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island to the delight of all of the children! They brought NYRA caps and googles and signed autographs. Jockeys in attendance included: John Velasquez, Javier Castellano, Rajiv Maragh, Jean Luc Samyn, Jermaine Bridgmohan and NYRA valet and former rider, Nick Santagata. The jockeys traditionally make this visit each year two days before the running of the Belmont Stakes!

"Wing Off" Spices Up Garden City for Annual Belmont Festival

As part of the celebration of the 142nd running of the Grade 1, $1 million Belmont stakes, the Belmont Festival at Garden City will be a flavorful affair with the return of the ever popular “Wing Off” chicken wing competition on Friday, June 4 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

During the Wing Off, local restaurants will compete to be named the venue that serves up Garden City’s best chicken wing. Judges will be plucked from the general public as any passerby can get in on the action for $8, which includes a plate of wings and a ballot. The winner of the Wing Off will be crowned Garden City’s chicken wing champion at 9:30 p.m.

Restaurants participating in this year’s Garden City Wing Off include Uptown Grille, J.P. McGeevers, Murphy’s Bar and Grill, Walk Street and Brews Brothers, in addition to the Garden City Fire Department. All proceeds from the Wing Off benefit the Mollie Biggane Melanoma Foundation, named for a Garden City resident who died from melanoma at the age of 20.

The Wing Off is part of the annual Garden City Belmont Festival. This year’s festival, held on the eve of the “Test of the Champion,” will take place on Seventh Street on Friday, June 4 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

“We are thrilled to host the Belmont Festival once again and appreciate the continuing support of civic, business, community leaders and local residents,” said Mary Dolan Grippo, chairwoman of the Garden City Belmont Festival. “This festival has become a great way for the community to celebrate one of the world’s premier sporting events - the running of the Belmont Stakes, the third leg of thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown.”

In addition to the chicken wing competition, the Garden City Belmont Festival will feature live music from the United States Air Force band Afterburner and other local bands; family-friendly activities including clowns, street performers and face painters; bounce rides courtesy of Coca-Cola; the Belmont Park starting gate; and Sammy the Bugler, who is renowned for his talented and spirited “Call to the Post” prior to the start of each thoroughbred race at Belmont Park.

Garden City children will have the opportunity to showcase their love of horse racing by taking part in a children’s poster contest. The top three winners will be awarded cash prizes from Sunflower Fine Art Gallery and their names will appear in the local papers.

Artwork will be displayed in store windows along Seventh Street and Franklin Avenue. Designated locations of each child’s artwork will be posted on www.sunflowerfineart.com/events beginning on June 1.

The Garden City Belmont Festival is sponsored by The Garden City Hotel; the Village of Garden City; and the New York Racing Association (NYRA).

For more information about the Garden City Belmont Festival, or to participate in any of its events, contact Mary Dolan Grippo at 516-571-1936 or via email at mgrippo@nassauida.org.



Floral Park Belmont Festival

The Floral Park Belmont Festival will also take place Friday, June 4 on Tulip Avenue from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The street festival will feature live music from three bands, traditional Irish dance performances, bounce rides, face painters, and other family-friendly activities.

Additionally, festival goers will get a taste of Floral Park when a bevy of Floral Park’s restaurants and eateries line the streets to offer culinary samples and tastings.



The Floral Park Belmont Festival is sponsored by the Floral Park Chamber of Commerce and the New York Racing Association, with the cooperation of the Village of Floral Park.

For more information about the Floral Park Belmont Festival, or to participate in any of its events, contact Kathleen Duggan at 516-512-0459.



About the Belmont Stakes

The Belmont Stakes is the third leg of thoroughbred racing’s prestigious Triple Crown, also comprising the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. The Belmont Stakes is held on an annual basis at Belmont Park in early June, with the 142nd running being held this year on Saturday, June 5. Only eleven horses have swept the Triple Crown, with the most recent being Affirmed in 1978. Belmont Park is operated by The New York Racing Association, Inc., which also operates Aqueduct Racetrack in Jamaica, NY and Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga, NY. Visit www.BelmontStakes.com, the official online home of the Belmont Stakes, for more information.

Belmont Jockeys to Visit Ronald McDonald House

On Thursday, June 3, more than a half-dozen jockeys from Belmont Park will ride into the hearts of families at the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island as part of the annual Jockey Day event.

Two days before the 142nd running of the $1 million Belmont Stakes, Alan Garcia, Javier Castellano, Maylan Studart, John Velazquez and Edgar Prado, among others, will travel to the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park at 10:30 a.m. to mingle with children at the House. Clad in their colorful silks, the riders will pose for photographs and distribute gifts of personally autographed riding goggles and hats.

“This is a very exciting event for our children and their families,” says Executive Director Joanne Reda. “Meeting the jockeys is always fun for everyone. We wish them good luck on Saturday.”

Garcia and Velazquez will have mounts in this year’s Belmont, with Garcia riding Stately Victor and Velazquez aboard Fly Down. Garcia won the 2008 Belmont Stakes aboard Da’ Tara, while Velazquez won the 2007 race with the filly Rags to Riches, the first female to win the Belmont in 102 years. They are the only two of the 11 jockeys with Belmont victories to their credit.

The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island is a ‘home-away-from home’ for families who are caring for seriously ill children undergoing medical treatment in area hospitals. Located on the campus of Schneider Children’s Hospital, the House accommodates families in a warm and supportive environment. Since opening in 1986, approximately 13,000 families from the United States and more than 80 countries around the world have been served. Many of the families are from Queens, Suffolk and Nassau Counties, as well as the surrounding metropolitan area.

Elmont 2010 Belmont Stakes Festival Parade