TurfPublicists: SARATOGA RACE COURSE TO HOST 32ND ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Contact: Dan Silver

Mark Bardack

(518) 383-6183

MEDIA ADVISORY/DAYBOOK ITEM

Saratoga Race Course hosts 32^ND ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE

WHAT: The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will host its annual pre-season preview party, the 32^nd annual Open House, five days before the official start of racing season with a full day of fun and attractions on Sunday, July 15, to benefit dozens of local non-profit organizations.

WHEN: Sunday, July 15

11 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

- First Steeplechase post time: 1 p.m.

- Mascot race post time: 12 noon

WHERE: Saratoga Race Course

267 Union Avenue

Saratoga Springs, New York

DETAILS: The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will host its 32^nd Annual Open House, a Saratoga tradition held prior to the start of racing season at North America’s most historic thoroughbred racetrack, with a full day of fun and attractions on Sunday, July 15, to benefit dozens of local non-profit organizations.

The free-admission sneak-peek into the popular summer meeting includes live music, food, pony rides, behind-the-scenes tours, handicapping seminars and the ninth-annual mascot race, which pits famed mascots from local sports teams and well-known brands against one another in a one-of-a-kind race down the main track. Post time is noon.

The National Steeplechase Association will present four hurdle races and one turf race as qualifiers for the regular Saratoga meet, without pari-mutuel wagering, every 45 minutes beginning at 1 p.m.

New this year to the entertainment lineup is The Puppet People, offering a puppet variety show including trick marionettes, mouth puppets, and rod puppets for three fun-filled performances taking place at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Also new this year, locally-known equine artist and art instructor Mary Francis Millet will be on hand with tips and a water color demonstration for fans participating in the second annual Travers-themed poster contest through the Tiny Tots Tea Room arts and crafts booth. The grand prize winner will have the opportunity to present a trophy in the winner’s circle as part of a named race during the summer meet.

The Islip Horsemen’s Association Long Island Drill Team, which has participated in various distinguished events including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, will demonstrate its moves and skills as more than a dozen horses execute intricate pinwheels, circles, and V formations on the main track at 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.

The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology will also be on hand with its Leaping Lizards and Rocking Reptiles exhibit, giving kids and families a chance to meet these fascinating cold-blooded creatures under the Carousel at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Patrons can get a glimpse into the inner workings of the track with free backstretch tours every half hour beginning at 11 a.m. at the Clubhouse entrance.

Fans will have the opportunity to purchase a 2012 Saratoga season pass at the Grandstand Customer Service Center during Open House. The passes, $75 for clubhouse admission and $35 for grandstand, are good for the entire 40-day Saratoga meet, including Travers Day on Saturday, August 25. Season passes will be available at the Saratoga Reserved Seating Office starting Wednesday, July 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and are also available by mail.

Saratoga’s Open House raises nearly $15,000 every year for local not-for-profit groups through the sale of deeply discounted food and beverages; additionally, the Saratoga Economic Opportunity Council will be holding a non-perishable food drive at the gates. The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., giving donors a coupon for a free carton of ice cream or sherbet at any participating Friendly’s restaurant.

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