TurfPublicists: NYRA TO OFFER "NEW OWNERS' LUNCHEON" PROGRAM

**More information about the New Owners’ Luncheon program is available online at www.nyra.com/newowners**

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Contacts: Dan Silver

Tom Gallo

NYRA TO OFFER “NEW OWNERS’ LUNCHEON” PROGRAM

ELMONT, N.Y. – The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has announced plans to implement a unique “New Owners’ Luncheon” series for those interested in learning more about thoroughbred racehorse ownership.

This series is a continuation of NYRA’s dedication to bringing new owners to the sport of horseracing, and to encourage broader participation in the industry. It is also one of the first initiatives of retired jockey Richard ‘The Mig’ Migliore, who was hired by NYRA in February 2011 as a racing office associate and broadcast analyst.

The first meeting of the Owners’ Luncheon series will be offered at Belmont Park on Sunday, May 22 and will continue periodically through the Belmont and Saratoga Race Course meets. This comprehensive introduction to racehorse ownership is intended to attract everyone who dreams about owning a racehorse, and will explain various ways new owners can gain entry into horse ownership.

“The importance of bringing new owners into the racing game is tantamount to a successful racing industry,” said NYRA President and CEO Charles Hayward. “NYRA is happy to facilitate new owner involvement with this comprehensive program.”

The agenda will span a complete day at the racetrack beginning at 10 a.m., and will include a fast-paced, interactive, and exciting day that will include presentations on becoming an owner, handicapping, barn tours, and multiple opportunities through the day to spend time with and ask questions of jockeys, trainers, and celebrity horse owners.

Guests will be personally escorted to the saddling paddock throughout the race day. Registration will be limited and there will be a modest fee, with attendees enjoying a continental breakfast, buffet lunch, and giveaways.

Migliore will be an integral part of the Owners’ Luncheon series, bringing the excitement of his career achievements and wealth of racetrack experience to the event. Born in 1964 on Long Island, Migliore began riding in 1980, and in 1981 won the Eclipse Award as the nation’s top apprentice with 298 victories. Twice the leading rider in New York, Migliore won or tied as leading rider at 10 different NYRA meets. Some of his biggest victories came later in his career, taking his first Breeders’ Cup race in 2008 aboard Turf Sprint winner Desert Code, and in 2009 capturing the Grade 1 Gazelle and Grade 1 Test aboard Flashing. In all, “the Mig” won 362 stakes, including 25 Grade 1 races. After winning more than 4,400 races during a career spanning three decades, Migliore retired in June 2010.

Helping to create and facilitate the series will be NYRA consultant Thomas J. Gallo, best known as managing owner of Parting Glass Racing (PGR) horse partnerships. With over 35 years in the thoroughbred horse industry, Gallo has dedicated much of his career to bringing new owners to the racing game.

When considering Gallo for this initiative, NYRA appreciated the PGR business model including its regular interaction with owners through monthly meetings where NYRA officials and many other industry notables make guest appearances. Also considered was Gallo’s long-term relationship with Migliore, who has been a guest speaker at many PGR meetings and NYRA events, where they jointly encouraged fans to get into the racing game through ownership.

“Tom and Richard work well together, and have a long history and a similar passion for introducing new owners to New York racing,” said Hayward. “The experience Tom and Richard bring to the table will be invaluable in making this program successful.”

Details about how to register for the Owners’ Luncheon”will be provided by NYRA on the NYRA website www.nyra.com/newowners and by calling Horseman’s Relations at Belmont Park 516 488 6000.

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