From Saturday for those who missed it:
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Contact: Ashley Herriman
NYRA TO DONATE $100,000 TO AMERICAN RED CROSS
FOR HURRICANE SANDY DISASTER RELIEF
OZONE PARK, N.Y. – The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced it will contribute to Hurricane Sandy disaster relief in New York with a $100,000 donation to the American Red Cross.
"So many communities surrounding Aqueduct Racetrack and Belmont Park were devastated by Hurricane Sandy," said NYRA President and Chief Operating Officer Ellen McClain. "We want to provide whatever support we can as these areas begin the long recovery process."
"Although more than 100 trees fell between our two downstate tracks and wind damaged some structures, we consider ourselves extremely fortunate," McClain continued. "All horses and humans residing on our property weathered the storm safely, but Sandy has affected employees, horsemen, and farms. NYRA embraces its responsibility as a leader in both the community and the horse racing industry by making a meaningful contribution to the disaster relief fund raising efforts."
Racing fans who wish to support the American Red Cross Sandy Relief Effort can find a link for donations onNYRA.com or visit http://www.redcross.org/
About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.
About NYRA: Founded in 1955, and franchised to run thoroughbred racing at New York's three major tracks (Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park, and Saratoga Race Course) through 2033, NYRA boasts a lineage that actually stretches back almost 150 years. NYRA tracks are the cornerstone of the state's thoroughbred business which contributes more than $2 billion annually to New York State's urban, suburban and rural economy. In 2011, more than 1.8 million people attended the live races at NYRA tracks. Factoring in nationwide off-track wagering, the average daily betting handle on NYRA races totals more than $8.1 million. NYRA has a vast network of websites, including www.nyra.com, www.belmontstakes.com, and www.nyragroupsales.com. You can also follow NYRA on social media platforms Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, and YouTube.
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