TurfPublicists: NYRA LAUNCHES ONLINE ACCREDITATION SYSTEM; ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR BELMONT STAKES 142

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Contact: Ashley Herriman

NYRA LAUNCHES ONLINE ACCREDITATION SYSTEM; ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR BELMONT STAKES 142

OZONE PARK, N.Y. – The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has launched an online application system for media credentials and is now accepting accreditation requests for the 142^nd running of the Grade 1, $1 million Belmont Stakes at http://credentials.nyra.com/.

For the first time, members of the media will be able to apply online not only for Belmont Stakes accreditation, but also for yearly, daily, Saratoga season and Travers Stakes credentials.

“We have an extremely talented group of in-house developers,” said NYRA Director of Communications Dan Silver. “They did an incredible job implementing our new credentialing system, and we are thrilled to offer our media partners a streamlined and efficient year-round application process.”

The online accreditation program, developed in-house by NYRA’s Information Systems Department, allows media outlets to easily submit requests for representatives assigned to cover on-track events, specify desired access to press box and/or photo room, and request advance assistance from the NYRA Communications Department. Once an application has been completed and reviewed by the Communications Department, applicants will be notified of their status via email. Applications must be completed in one sitting as there is no option to log back in and make changes later.

Also new this year is a required Release and Indemnification Agreement for individuals covering events on track property. For credentialed media who plan to bring “equipment” – defined as any electronic or mechanical item used by broadcast and photo sources that cannot fit comfortably into a pocket, including video cameras, still cameras, and radio equipment – on track, proof of liability insurance is required. Laptops, portable recording devices and other items often used by print media are not considered "equipment" in this instance.

Applicants should carefully review the 2010 NYRA Media Credential Policy, viewable on the credential application home page, before submitting requests. Applying in no way guarantees a media outlet will receive credentials and NYRA reserves the right to deny or revoke credentials for any reason at any time.

For questions about the online system, please contact Ashley Herriman in the NYRA Communications Department at aherriman@nyrainc.com or 718-659-2218.

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