Saratoga’s Grand Summer
(Where thoroughbred horse racing reigns)
By Dick Healy

Most towns with a population of thirty thousand or so are mere blips on America’s social landscape. Saratoga Springs, N. Y, 180 miles north of New York City and thirty miles north of Albany, the state capitol, defies this conventional little town stereotype designation. If you follow thoroughbred horse racing, then you know the reason why Saratoga is so revered from July 25 through Labor Day weekend each year.

The upstate Spa had been the “August Place to Be” ever since the historic Race Course open in 1863. But now that things kick off in July Saratoga is “ The Summer Place to Be.” The likes of Diamond Jim Brady, actress Lillian Russell and stellar race champions such as Man O” War and War Admiral are all part of Saratoga’s rich legacy. The fabled city still attracts the rich and famous. Stars of stage and screen, politicians, billionaires Sheiks, heads of state, and occasional visit by royalty typify Saratoga’s summer racing season.

From a historical prospective, Saratoga is unique in so many ways that if you never go to the Race Course, your days and evenings can be well occupied through a series of exciting venues.

This is the first of several articles on Saratoga I will be presenting this season. My intent is to keep you posted on major stake races, fine dining emporiums, hotels and other lodge offerings. Saratoga, currently experiencing a renaissance, captures visitors with its enchanting and eclectic scene.

Sunday, July 22 the Annual Open House at the Race Course takes place from 11 a. m. to 4 p. m. the track calls it, “ A free sneak-peek into the popular Saratoga summer season.” It is all-free and several things take place, including live music, food, pony rides, games, behind-the-scene tours, mascot sprints, handicapping seminars and non-wagering horse racing.

Opening day for actual racing begins Wednesday, July 25, featuring the $100,000 Schuylerville for two Year-Old Fillies at 6 furlongs. You might want to get to the Race Course between 7 am to 9:30 am and take part in one of the track’s favorite traditions, Early Breakfast. If so, an on-site tram ride to see Saratoga’s backstretch is a must.

Billed as he oldest continuously operating Race Course in the Country, this is the track’s 139th season. The best thoroughbred horses in the world race on the famed oval. Of course the pinnacle race of the meet will be the 138th Travers on August 25,featuring the top 3- Year-Olds at 1-1/4 miles. This highly coveted stakes race carries a winning purse of $1,000,000.

Stayed tuned each week for up-coming Saratoga events.