Saratoga Race Course Celebrates Fan Appreciation Week with Exciting Events

Saratoga Springs, New York, is buzzing with excitement as the Saratoga Race Course hosts its annual Fan Appreciation Week, running from August 28 to September 1, 2023. Spectators can look forward to thrilling races, engaging activities, and a variety of giveaways, creating a festive atmosphere for both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.

Daily Highlights and Special Events

On Thursday, August 28, the admission gates open at 11:00 a.m., with a packed 11-race program kicking off at 1:10 p.m. A highlight of the day is the Grade 3, $175,000 With Anticipation, a 1 1/16-mile turf race specifically for juveniles. In addition to the races, fans can enjoy the Saratoga Breakfast and Breeding Farm Tour, which runs from Thursday through Sunday. This package, presented by the New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc., features a buffet breakfast, transportation to a local breeding farm, and admission to the racecourse, accommodating up to 52 guests. Tickets can be purchased via NYRA.com.

For those looking to indulge, Thursday also marks National Red Wine Day, with complimentary samples of Josh Cellars wine selections available at the Josh Cellars Wine Bar from noon to 4:00 p.m. The Taste NY Pavilion will showcase New York-made food and beverages, allowing fans to explore the state’s vibrant culinary scene.

Friday, August 29, sees the admission gates open once again at 11:00 a.m., with the first race scheduled to begin at 12:35 p.m. The day’s card includes two Listed $150,000 turf events: the Perfect Sting for older fillies and mares and the Bernard Baruch for older horses. Fans can also meet the newly appointed Adirondack Thunder Head Coach, Sylvain Cloutier, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Jockey Silks Porch.

Family-Friendly Activities and Community Outreach

The NYRA Students of Thoroughbreds and Racing (STAR) program continues this weekend, offering families and children under 12 insider access to the world of thoroughbred racing. Registration is free and can be completed online or in-person at the NYRA STAR booth.

Saturday, August 30, offers another full day of racing, with admission starting at 10:00 a.m. and races beginning at 12:05 p.m. Notable races include the Grade 1, $300,000 Spinaway for juvenile fillies and the Grade 2, $500,000 Flower Bowl for older fillies and mares. Fans can also interact with retired thoroughbreds at the Horse Sense attraction, available from noon to 2:00 p.m.

The final day, Sunday, August 31, features the much-anticipated Grade 1, $1 million Jockey Club Gold Cup, which serves as a qualifier for the prestigious Breeders’ Cup Classic. A special live performance of the National Anthem by 10-year-old guitarist Bay Melnick Virgolino will also take place. The day includes a premium giveaway of a Saratoga quarter zip sweatshirt, available free with paid admission while supplies last.

As the week culminates on Labor Day, September 1, fans can expect another exciting lineup of races, including the Grade 1, $300,000 Spendthrift Farm Hopeful. Local and regional supermarket chain Market 32 will announce the total meals generated for the Regional Food Bank, a collaboration that has provided 1,000 meals with each win by the #3 horse during the summer.

Community outreach remains a key focus throughout the week, with various organizations participating. Initiatives like Capital Region Toys for Tots and the Gurtler Brothers VFW Post 420 aim to support local families and veterans, showcasing the racecourse’s commitment to the community.

Saratoga Race Course’s Fan Appreciation Week promises to be an unforgettable celebration, filled with thrilling racing, community engagement, and an array of activities that highlight the best of New York’s racing and cultural scene.