After the busy summer of top-quality thoroughbred horse racing at the Saratoga Race Course, the 2021 Saratoga meet has wrapped up. This year’s edition of the meet was the 153rd and despite several factors against it, such as the unprecedented situation and unfavorable weather conditions, the meet was quite successful and in fact recorded an all-time high all-sources handle.
The 153rd edition of the summer meet was quite eventful throughout its continuation, it featured the 152nd edition of the Runhappy Travers Stakes. The race was won by Essential Quality, and the event recorded a total of 44,507 total spectators at the track and witnessed Essential Quality grab the win for trainer Brad Cox and Luis Saez at the reigns.
Record-Setting Season
Senior Director of Communications for the New York Racing Association Pat McKenna said a few words on the conclusion of the season at Saratoga Race Course. Mr. McKenna thanked all fans for their support and thus contributing to a tremendous season at the track. He explained that for the sixth consecutive year the meet exceeds US$1 million in paid attendance.
Mr. McKenna said that this summer meet was one for the ages. This was the second time in the last three years that the meet accumulates a record-breaking betting handle. According to Mr. McKenna, this demonstrates the quality of live horse racing at the track and the increasing interest in it across the state and the country.
Speaking on behalf of the racing association Mr. McKenna expressed his gratitude towards fans who were able to make their way to the track during the summer season, and also those who watched and wagered by watching Saratoga Live on television. He also thanked the horsemen who are responsible for their everyday work and care for the horses.
Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce President, Todd Shimkus, has also backed the significance of the economic positives that the track provides to the region. According to him, a few years ago the Saratoga County Industrial Development Association compiled a report which estimated that the impact of the track would bring US$240 million a year for the region. However, he believes that the amount has been easily exceeded this year, due to the huge attendance.
Open During Off-Season
Last week, the New York Racing Association announced that it will be opening the 1863 Club at Saratoga Race Course for private events during the off-season. The venue is perfect for hosting weddings, fundraisers, reunions, and corporate dinners. The association informed that Mazzone Hospitality will be in charge of the catering services and now the venue can be used for both small and major gatherings.
Giveaway Sale
At the start of this September, NYRA hosted a special giveaway sale, during which fans were able to get their hands on their favorite collectible items from previous seasons. The giveaway was on September 1, 2021, at the Saratoga Race Course, and it featured items such as Angel Cordero Jr. bobblehead, 2015 Saratoga cooler bag, and long-sleeve tee, 2016 Saratoga zip-up pullover, 2017 Saratoga wall clock, and many more.
Source: Gwizdala, Mike “Record setting meet comes to a close at Saratoga Race Course”, Troy Record, September 6, 2021
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