The arrival of fall doesn’t mean your kids’ baseball glove has to sit around gathering dust. The Spa City Stallions are hosting tryouts for 11 to 13-year-olds who want year-round training. 

MAJOR LEAGUE EXPERIENCE

The Spa City Stallions are being headed up by the Harrington family – a family with Major League experience.

“With the Harringtons being a baseball family and having the experience that we do, we bring a more functional approach to baseball. Kids haven’t been learning the skills to help them move forward and it’s a rude awakening for them when they go out on a full-sized field,” said TJ Harrington. 

TJ’s dad, Tim Harrington, has been a scout for the Boston Red Sox for 21 years and spent 14 years as Glens Falls High School’s varsity baseball coach. TJ was a 1994 San Diego Padres draft pick and served nine years as a strength and conditioning coach for the LA Angels. His nephew, Mike, who played for the Cortland Red Dragons, has earned a number of awards including being named the 2018 D3 Pitcher of the Year. 

This was the first year for their Spa City Stallions team, comprised of players from South Glens Falls, Queensbury and Saratoga. Even with all of the hurdles that youth sports had to jump over because of the pandemic, they played a great six weeks of games this season. 

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A NEW BRAND OF BASEBALL

Even if you didn’t know anything about their combined Major League experience, one look at the new, private Spa City Stallions field in Greenfield Center can tell you that these guys take baseball seriously. All aspects of the game are covered and player skills honed in an environment where no shortcuts have been taken.

The Spa City Stallions fall developmental sessions will be followed-up by indoor strength and conditioning training at the Chase Sports Complex in South Glens Falls before going back out on the field for Spring training and out on the road for summer games as members of the Eastern New York Travel Baseball (ENYTB) league. 

To accommodate a variety of student schedules, TJ is committed to maintaining flexibility with the Stallions’ training times. During the 1½ to 2-hour sessions, they’ll be hitting balls in the batting cages, utilizing computer-aided pitching analysis, building strength and endurance with exercises, weights and hurdles. As a small private group, they personally ensure that all the safety protocols the state has put in place are being adhered to, he said. 

“We’re a one-stop shop for baseball,” said Harrington.

The Spa City Stallions player costs and fees are comparable to other ENYTB teams. Free tryouts are being held on Saturday, Aug. 22 and Sunday, Aug. 23 at 55 Wilton Rd., Greenfield Center. Players are asked to bring standard baseball equipment and answer basic medical questions at registration. Tryouts for kids age 11 are at 10 a.m., age 12 at 12 p.m. and age 13 at 2 p.m. A second round of tryouts will be Aug. 29 and 30. For more information, find them on Facebook @spacitystallionsbaseball

Earlier this week I was given the opportunity to interview Jack Knowlton and discuss his meteoric rise to the top of the horse racing universe. It all began twenty- five years ago.

THE FORMATIVE YEARS

In 1995 Jack and five pals of his formed Sackatoga Stable. The name was a play on words. A combination of letters from the crew’s hometown of Sackets Harbor along with Jack’s residency in Saratoga Springs creating an amusing name for the enterprise. They chose the staid checkered colors of maroon and gray that matched those of their high school for the stable’s jockey silks.

They liked the name so much that they named their first horse Sackets Six. Little did they know that eight years later lightning would strike them in the form of a three-year-old gelding with the name Funny Cide.

ON THE FUNNY CIDE OF THE STREET

In 2002 Jack and his partners paid Seventy-five thousand dollars for the chestnut gelding. By that time the ownership group had risen to ten members including a crusty, colorful character, Delmar businessman Gus Williams. Funny Cide would not disappoint. As a two-year-old he took all three of his starts, two of them easily. He didn’t show much as a three-year-old until the Wood Memorial, New York’s major Kentucky Derby prep. There he gave the favorite Empire Maker all he could handle, finishing a game second. Jack and his merry men were heading for Louisville for a shot at the “Run for the Roses.” Along with them was a bus load of friends and associates clamoring to be a part of the action.

Jack saw it like this.The sheiks and blue bloods were coming in private cars and limousines. They, on the other hand were considered a bunch of local yokels, coming to the Derby on a school bus with a New York State bred gelding. The fact that a gelding hadn’t won the race in fifty-five years and a New York bred had never won it didn’t add much prestige to their presence at the big event.

Empire Maker was the favorite to win the race. He had all the earmarks of a champion. He was owned by Prince Khalid Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. With impeccable breeding and a resume to go along with it, this Goliath looked like he was about to put the Derby field in his back pocket.

Jack Knowlton and trainer Barclay Tagg had other ideas. They knew that horse races aren’t won at the breeding shed or the magnificent horse farms in Kentucky. They are won on the racetrack. And Funny Cide was about to prove it.

The seventeen horse field approached the gate. Funny Cide took his place in the 6 slot under the reins of one of America’s top jockeys, Jose Santos. At 12 to 1 he was overlooked by the bettors, who had their eyes firmly fixed on Empire Maker.

The bell rang and Santos tucked the chestnut to the inside. He stayed there until they hit the half mile pole. Then he made his move. Funny Cide blew by the leaders. In hot pursuit Empire Maker followed. Santos hit the gas and was two lengths clear of Empire Maker at the wire. The race was over and a legend was born.

Jack Knowlton, Funny Cide and his crew were now household names in the sporting world. David had taken down Goliath and the average guy loved them for it.

Two weeks later all roads led to Baltimore for the running of the Preakness Stakes. Funny Cide took this one in a laugher, cruising home by almost ten lengths.

The gelding that was just another Derby starter two weeks earlier, was heading to Belmont Park with a chance to win the Triple Crown and immortality.

Jack was on clouds number one through nine. He and his high school buddies made an appearance on The Today Show being Interviewed by Katie Curic. If that wasn’t enough, he rubbed shoulders with the premier sports artist in the world, Leroy Neiman. They spent an afternoon together at Manhattan’s fabled eatery and watering hole “21 Club.” With its row of jockey statues adorning the entrance to the restaurant, it was the perfect setting. There Neiman invited Jack to his gallery and also spent a day with him at Belmont. To add icing to the cake, Neiman painted a beautiful rendition of Funny Cide. The original was sold at a charity event. A signed print of it hangs proudly in Jack’s office.

A BRUSH WITH IMMORTALITY

If Jack wasn’t busy enough with his new-found celebrity, his main thoughts were obviously with winning a Triple Crown. It rained all of Belmont Day in the New York area. The torrential downpour wouldn’t stop a near record crowd of over one hundred thousand fans from converging on Belmont Park to root their newfound hero to victory.

The big guy was facing five opponents in his quest for immortality. Derby favorite Empire Maker was back for this one. For whatever reason Funny Cide wasn’t quite up to the mile and a half test that day. He took the lead out of the gate and was hounded by Empire Maker until he gave way on the far turn. Down the stretch Empire Maker drew clear. The Saudi Arabian Prince had his taste of revenge. As for Funny Cide his popularity would only grow in leaps and bounds.

THE FUNNY CIDE BRAND

Funny Cide was about to take on his own zip code. He was so popular that beers and wines were named after him. Ice cream flavors showcased his name. Novelty bobble heads became a sought after collectible for the Funny Cide fans.

As for Jack, he travelled the country as a good will ambassador for the breeding of New York State Thoroughbreds..And who better than the soft spoken visionary that had done so much for the sport in his native state.

A STAR IS BORN

Let’s move ahead to the present. it’s been almost two decades since Jack and his crew pulled off the miracle in Louisville.

Again he has raised eyebrows throughout the horse racing community. Along with his trainer Barclay Tagg and a new set of owners he is poised to get a second Derby.

This chapter differs a bit from the legend of Funny Cide. This time Jack has a colt that could very well become Horse of the Year and a World Class Champion before this racing year ends.

A product of the 2018 Fasig – Tipton sales here at Saratoga, Jack laid out 110,000 dollars for the rights to the New York State bred yearling. 

He was given the striking name Tiz The Law. It was apropos that he would break his maiden at Saratoga as a two-year-old last year. Then in only his second start he won the Grade One Champagne at Belmont. Jack Knowlton knew from that moment he had another New York Bred racehorse poised to run in the Kentucky Derby.

This year has been all Tiz The Law. In four starts as a three year old he has reeled off the Holy Bull Stakes, then the Florida Derby, The Belmont Stakes and Saratoga’s Crown Jewel, the Travers.

In this Covid-19 year of surprises, the Belmont and Travers were scheduled to run prior to the Kentucky Derby. The distance for the Belmont Stakes was shortened to a mile and an eighth. Tiz The Law took the race easily. As far as Jack is concerned they could have gone two miles and nobody in that field would have touched him.

Jack is convinced that the chances are strong that his colt will get the Derby and go on to Triple Crown glory. It is difficult to fault that evaluation.

If everything goes according to Hoyle horse racing fans will get to see Tiz The Law next year. Jack would like to see him go to the Pegasus to start the campaign, then on to Dubai. He sees the Whitney Stakes here at the Spa also a distinct possibility. Jack puts it this way. “Each one is a mountain to climb.”

FINAL REMARKS

Jack had a few things to discuss that are very important to him. Foremost he would like to see his trainer Barclay Tagg inducted into the Horse Racing Hall of Fame here on Union Avenue. He points out that the eighty-two-year-old Tagg is one of only four contemporary trainers to win all three Triple Crown Races.

He also would like to see uniform drug testing on a nationwide basis. He sees too many rules and regulations that differ in the various states that conduct thoroughbred racing.

Jack is proud of the fact that he has taken two relatively inexpensive horses to the top of the sport. He expresses that it is proof with a small investment a partnership of shareholders can participate in the game at the highest level.

Finally, Jack has become the face of New York State Thoroughbred Breeding. His success with that breed is unparalleled. In fact he has done literally the impossible. Jack has taken on the Crème de la Crème of the sport. Where the Middle Eastern Sheiks and blue bloods have an open check book to conduct business, Jack has taken them on successfully with a small stable and limited funds. He is quietly proud of that astonishing fact.

Jack Knowlton is one of a kind. When asked about the many successes in his life, he would start the answer with the word “Incredible.” It is safe to say that same word fits Jack to a tee. The life that he leads surely is incredible.

Earlier this week I was given the opportunity to interview Jack Knowlton and discuss his meteoric rise to the top of the horse racing universe. It all began twenty- five years ago.

THE FORMATIVE YEARS

In 1995 Jack and five pals of his formed Sackatoga Stable. The name was a play on words. A combination of letters from the crew’s hometown of Sackets Harbor along with Jack’s residency in Saratoga Springs creating an amusing name for the enterprise. They chose the staid checkered colors of maroon and gray that matched those of their high school for the stable’s jockey silks.

They liked the name so much that they named their first horse Sackets Six. Little did they know that eight years later lightning would strike them in the form of a three-year-old gelding with the name Funny Cide.

ON THE FUNNY CIDE OF THE STREET

In 2002 Jack and his partners paid Seventy-five thousand dollars for the chestnut gelding. By that time the ownership group had risen to ten members including a crusty, colorful character, Delmar businessman Gus Williams. Funny Cide would not disappoint. As a two-year-old he took all three of his starts, two of them easily. He didn’t show much as a three-year-old until the Wood Memorial, New York’s major Kentucky Derby prep. There he gave the favorite Empire Maker all he could handle, finishing a game second. Jack and his merry men were heading for Louisville for a shot at the “Run for the Roses.” Along with them was a bus load of friends and associates clamoring to be a part of the action.

Jack saw it like this.The sheiks and blue bloods were coming in private cars and limousines. They, on the other hand were considered a bunch of local yokels, coming to the Derby on a school bus with a New York State bred gelding. The fact that a gelding hadn’t won the race in fifty-five years and a New York bred had never won it didn’t add much prestige to their presence at the big event.

Empire Maker was the favorite to win the race. He had all the earmarks of a champion. He was owned by Prince Khalid Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. With impeccable breeding and a resume to go along with it, this Goliath looked like he was about to put the Derby field in his back pocket.

Jack Knowlton and trainer Barclay Tagg had other ideas. They knew that horse races aren’t won at the breeding shed or the magnificent horse farms in Kentucky. They are won on the racetrack. And Funny Cide was about to prove it.

The seventeen horse field approached the gate. Funny Cide took his place in the 6 slot under the reins of one of America’s top jockeys, Jose Santos. At 12 to 1 he was overlooked by the bettors, who had their eyes firmly fixed on Empire Maker.

The bell rang and Santos tucked the chestnut to the inside. He stayed there until they hit the half mile pole. Then he made his move. Funny Cide blew by the leaders. In hot pursuit Empire Maker followed. Santos hit the gas and was two lengths clear of Empire Maker at the wire. The race was over and a legend was born.

Jack Knowlton, Funny Cide and his crew were now household names in the sporting world. David had taken down Goliath and the average guy loved them for it.

Two weeks later all roads led to Baltimore for the running of the Preakness Stakes. Funny Cide took this one in a laugher, cruising home by almost ten lengths.

The gelding that was just another Derby starter two weeks earlier, was heading to Belmont Park with a chance to win the Triple Crown and immortality.

Jack was on clouds number one through nine. He and his high school buddies made an appearance on The Today Show being Interviewed by Katie Curic. If that wasn’t enough, he rubbed shoulders with the premier sports artist in the world, Leroy Neiman. They spent an afternoon together at Manhattan’s fabled eatery and watering hole “21 Club.” With its row of jockey statues adorning the entrance to the restaurant, it was the perfect setting. There Neiman invited Jack to his gallery and also spent a day with him at Belmont. To add icing to the cake, Neiman painted a beautiful rendition of Funny Cide. The original was sold at a charity event. A signed print of it hangs proudly in Jack’s office.

A BRUSH WITH IMMORTALITY

If Jack wasn’t busy enough with his new-found celebrity, his main thoughts were obviously with winning a Triple Crown. It rained all of Belmont Day in the New York area. The torrential downpour wouldn’t stop a near record crowd of over one hundred thousand fans from converging on Belmont Park to root their newfound hero to victory.

The big guy was facing five opponents in his quest for immortality. Derby favorite Empire Maker was back for this one. For whatever reason Funny Cide wasn’t quite up to the mile and a half test that day. He took the lead out of the gate and was hounded by Empire Maker until he gave way on the far turn. Down the stretch Empire Maker drew clear. The Saudi Arabian Prince had his taste of revenge. As for Funny Cide his popularity would only grow in leaps and bounds.

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THE FUNNY CIDE BRAND

Funny Cide was about to take on his own zip code. He was so popular that beers and wines were named after him. Ice cream flavors showcased his name. Novelty bobble heads became a sought after collectible for the Funny Cide fans.

As for Jack, he travelled the country as a good will ambassador for the breeding of New York State Thoroughbreds..And who better than the soft spoken visionary that had done so much for the sport in his native state.

A STAR IS BORN

Let’s move ahead to the present. it’s been almost two decades since Jack and his crew pulled off the miracle in Louisville.

Again he has raised eyebrows throughout the horse racing community. Along with his trainer Barclay Tagg and a new set of owners he is poised to get a second Derby.

This chapter differs a bit from the legend of Funny Cide. This time Jack has a colt that could very well become Horse of the Year and a World Class Champion before this racing year ends.

A product of the 2018 Fasig – Tipton sales here at Saratoga, Jack laid out 110,000 dollars for the rights to the New York State bred yearling. 

He was given the striking name Tiz The Law. It was apropos that he would break his maiden at Saratoga as a two-year-old last year. Then in only his second start he won the Grade One Champagne at Belmont. Jack Knowlton knew from that moment he had another New York Bred racehorse poised to run in the Kentucky Derby.

This year has been all Tiz The Law. In four starts as a three year old he has reeled off the Holy Bull Stakes, then the Florida Derby, The Belmont Stakes and Saratoga’s Crown Jewel, the Travers.

In this Covid-19 year of surprises, the Belmont and Travers were scheduled to run prior to the Kentucky Derby. The distance for the Belmont Stakes was shortened to a mile and an eighth. Tiz The Law took the race easily. As far as Jack is concerned they could have gone two miles and nobody in that field would have touched him.

Jack is convinced that the chances are strong that his colt will get the Derby and go on to Triple Crown glory. It is difficult to fault that evaluation.

If everything goes according to Hoyle horse racing fans will get to see Tiz The Law next year. Jack would like to see him go to the Pegasus to start the campaign, then on to Dubai. He sees the Whitney Stakes here at the Spa also a distinct possibility. Jack puts it this way. “Each one is a mountain to climb.”

FINAL REMARKS

Jack had a few things to discuss that are very important to him. Foremost he would like to see his trainer Barclay Tagg inducted into the Horse Racing Hall of Fame here on Union Avenue. He points out that the eighty-two-year-old Tagg is one of only four contemporary trainers to win all three Triple Crown Races.

He also would like to see uniform drug testing on a nationwide basis. He sees too many rules and regulations that differ in the various states that conduct thoroughbred racing.

Jack is proud of the fact that he has taken two relatively inexpensive horses to the top of the sport. He expresses that it is proof with a small investment a partnership of shareholders can participate in the game at the highest level.

Finally, Jack has become the face of New York State Thoroughbred Breeding. His success with that breed is unparalleled. In fact he has done literally the impossible. Jack has taken on the Crème de la Crème of the sport. Where the Middle Eastern Sheiks and blue bloods have an open check book to conduct business, Jack has taken them on successfully with a small stable and limited funds. He is quietly proud of that astonishing fact.

Jack Knowlton is one of a kind. When asked about the many successes in his life, he would start the answer with the word “Incredible.” It is safe to say that same word fits Jack to a tee. The life that he leads surely is incredible.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — As Saratoga residents begin to blow off the dust on their bikes and running shoes after the long quarantine, the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation (SSPF) is offering a fun and educational way to get back into being active. Throughout the summer, the SSPF is offering guided walking and biking tours throughout Saratoga to give you the full story on this historic city.

The annual Bike Tours are returning again this summer to give people the full scoop behind the Saratoga Spa State Park. Join Linda Harvey-Opiteck, the SSPF Secretary as the path takes you along old roads, carriage paths, and trolley lines. By biking and walking these paths, the community will gain an understanding of the historic development of the area through the 1900’s. The trip will highlight the significant architectural and landscaping changes the springs and spas went through throughout this period. Even today the park remains a staple cultural and amusement spot for locals and tourists alike. The SSPF highlights the preservation of the spas and the local beauty of the quiet and off-the-beaten-path springs. Ever since their founding in 1977, the SSPF has worked for the protection and enhancement of the Saratoga’s cultural heritage.

The tour starts on South Broadway at the Lincoln Baths near the early bathhouses before moving along to some lesser known springs along Route 50. Afterwards, the tour will head to the serene Geyser Park area before finishing up at the complex of Beaux Arts building in the center of Saratoga Spa State Park.

Harvey-Opiteck says that her favorite part of the tour is “making people aware of the significance of this park that is in their backyard and helping them find new parts of the park that they not have explored before. Everyone puts a focus on the historic architecture in Saratoga Springs but here we have a National Historic Landmark, which there is no higher significance in the United States.”

Tickets for the tour are $20 for SSPF members and $25 for any non-members and space is limited to around twenty participants so sign up in advance. Also, for those who are interested but might not have a bike can rent one through the many CDPHP Cycle stations throughout Saratoga. The course is mostly flat so people of all ages and fitness ranges are welcome to attend. Tours are offered on Saturday, July 11, Saturday, Aug. 22, and on Sunday Sept. 27.

The SSPF is also offering their “Summer Strolls” again this summer which take you through multiple different neighborhoods and locations around Saratoga to learn more about their cultural history as well. There are twelve walks scheduled throughout the summer and like the Bike Tours, space is limited so registering for a ticket in advance is required. A guide who is well rooted in Saratoga’s rich history will lead the tour and the locations visited range from elegant streets of Saratoga’s downtown to the tranquil, hole-in-the-wall springs. These tours are offered every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. all the way through Sept. 6.

For those looking to get active this summer, try signing up for a Bike Tour or Summer Stroll. The two not only give you an in-depth guide on the city’s rich cultural history, but also are a great way to make being active fun.

For more information on the tours or to make a reservation, call the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation 518-587-5030 or visit their website at www.saratogapreservation.org.

SARATOGA COUNTY — During Governor Cuomo’s announcement on June 14 regarding the shift to Phase 3 of reopening, he stated that low-risk youth sports can begin again on July 6. This was a pleasant surprise for many families around New York as it gives their kids an outlet to get outside and stay active during quarantine.

Since early March, many local Recreation Departments have been forced to shut down annual sports and youth-enrichment programs. The Saratoga Recreation Department was forced to cancel its spring soccer, fishing, ice skating, and bowling programs due to the escalation of the COVID-19. While necessary at the time to protect athletes and families, many were sad to hear that another community outlet was shut down until further notice. As summer grew closer, many questioned the potential of these Recreation Departments and their programs being closed for another season. However, with New York’s almost complete shift to Phase 3, this question is now answered.

Many local recreation departments have begun to announce the reopening of summer leagues for lower-risk youth sports. Popular sports included in this category are: soccer, crew, individual swimming and diving, baseball, softball, track and field, and golf. While many kids are excited to regain a bit of normalcy in their lives, there are a lot of precautions being taken to ensure that both kids and spectators can be safe. The sports that were given the green-light to open back up contain minimal contact and share little equipment. Furthermore, most of these can be done while practicing regular social distancing rules.

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While it is up to each state or community to enforce and mandate certain safety precautions, local recreation departments such as the Ballston Area Recreation Commission (BACC) and Saratoga Springs Recreation have taken many efforts to ensure that people are maintaining proper safety when getting back out on the fields this summer. One change that will be implemented for the summer and fall leagues is a limit on the number of spectators allowed at each game. They ask that there only be two spectators per child participant. As well, these Departments have begun to discuss with league directors about keeping players safe during games. Some private leagues have already started posting their own health and safety guidelines during COVID-19. The Ballston Spa Jr. Baseball League is requiring that all coaching staff must wear masks in and around the playing field and that players are required to have masks on in the dugout. The traditional after game handshake is being replaced with both teams lining up on their base path in front of their dugouts and tipping their cap to opposing team.

However, while things may look bright for Saratoga and Ballston Spa in regard to the reopening of summer youth sports, Glens Falls has decided to keep their sport leagues closed for the summer. In a release by the Glens Falls Recreation department, “In wake of the Coronavirus pandemic and the Covid-19 threat, and in the interest of maintaining public health, the Glens Falls Recreation Department has cancelled the bulk of its summer programming.”

While the concern of COVID-19 will not go away anytime soon, it’s a step in the right direction for local communities as they try and not only restore some normalcy to kids’ lives, but also some smiles.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – The 2020 summer meet at historic Saratoga Race Course will feature 71 stakes worth $14.45 million, encompassing 39 graded stakes and 18 Grade 1s – from Thursday, July 16 through Monday, Sept. 7.

“We’re thrilled to be racing at Saratoga this summer, and we thank Governor Andrew Cuomo for his support and the support of horsemen who have worked with us to navigate the many challenges,” NYRA President and CEO Dave O’Rourke said in a statement. “While this will be anything but a traditional Saratoga season, we hope to provide a semblance of normalcy for both the local community as well as racing fans across the country.”

Under current New York state guidelines, Saratoga Race Course will open July 16 without spectators in attendance. The 40-day meet will feature at least one stakes race every live racing day, highlighted by the 151st renewal of the Grade 1, $1 million Runhappy Travers on August 8 and the Grade 1, $750,000 Whitney on August 1, as the anchors of two of the biggest racing days in North America.

After opening weekend, racing will be conducted five days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays.

Whitney Day, set for Saturday, Aug.1, will feature three Grade 1 events, led by the historic Whitney, a handicap at 1 1/8 miles with an automatic berth to the Breeders’ Cup Classic on November 7 at Keeneland on the line.

The card is bolstered by the Grade 1, $500,000 Personal Ensign, a “Win and You’re In” qualifier for the Breeders’ Cup Distaff in November; and the Grade 1, $300,000 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial presented by Runhappy for 3-year-olds sprinting seven furlongs.

The stakes-laden card also includes the Grade 2, $250,000 Bowling Green for 4-year-olds and up on the turf and the $200,000 Caress, a 5 ½-furlong turf sprint for older fillies and mares.

The Runhappy Travers, traditionally contested at the end of August, will be held this year on Aug. 8 to properly account for the schedule adjustments and overall calendar for 3-year-olds in training due to the health and safety measures instituted to mitigate risk and combat the spread of COVID-19.

The “Mid-Summer Derby” will still be contested at 1 1/4 miles for the country’s most talented 3-year-olds and is one of three Grade 1s on the day, joining the $300,000 Ballerina for fillies and mares 3-years-old and up going seven furlongs in a “Win and You’re In” qualifier for the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint.

A pair of stakes for sophomore state-breds originally scheduled at Aqueduct Racetrack, the NYSSS Times Square and NYSSS Park Avenue, will now be contested at Saratoga on Aug. 27 and Sept. 3 respectively, both offering a purse of $100,000 for the 6 1/2-furlong main-track sprints.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — With the continued realities of social distancing stemming from the worldwide coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), officials at Saratoga Springs’ Firecreacker4 Road Race today announced that the 14th edition’s in-person events on Saturday, July 4 has been cancelled and a Virtual 4-Mile option offered to those interested.

The Firecracker4 is offering three options to the participants who have already registered:
1) Switch to the Virtual 4-Mile 2) Donate their race entry fee to the event’s charity partners (and receive a commemorative 2020 race t-shirt), or 3) defer to the 2021 event at no additional charge. 

“Over the last 14 years this event has become an Independence Day tradition in the Capital Region and one of the largest 4th of July road races in the US.  We understand how much this event means not only to the runners, but also the city of Saratoga Springs and the charities we help support,” said Event Director Patrick Lynskey.  “However, our number one priority is always the health and well-being of our community, including runners, volunteers, sponsors, police, fire and city staff. Even though New York state is starting to open up, it is clear that there are just too many unknows to gather thousands of people in close quarters on July 4th.”

Lynskey added: “due to the popularity of the Firecracker4 and generosity of our participants we have been able to donate more than $300,000 to local charities over the years and we hope this year will be no different.  As a result, we will offer a Virtual Firecracker4 4-Mile run for those who would like to participate.  Our Virtual 4-Mile run is a great way for runners to continue their Independence Day running or walking tradition and accomplish a personal goal, while supporting the event’s local charities — The Veterans Business Council Scholarship Program, Pitney Meadows Community Farm Trails Project, The Streaks Running Club Inc,  Racing City Running Club and The Children’s Museum at Saratoga.”

Those interested in signing up for the Virtual 4-Mile run can do so online through Sunday, June 7 at midnight. Registration is $30 and there will be no further price increases. All Virtual 4-Mile participants will receive a 14th annual virtual Firecracker4 soft tech t-shirt, a bib and finisher’s certificate that can be printed out at home, and a commemorative finishers’ medal. These items will be mailed to participants by July 4. 

Virtual 4-Mile participants will be asked to complete a four-mile run by themselves following CDC and New York state-mandated social distancing guidelines between Sunday, June 28 at 6 a.m. through Saturday, July 11 at 11 p.m. 

“You can run your four miles anywhere.  If you have a four-mile route in your neighborhood, you can run on that course and it will count,” said Lynskey, adding that all participants will receive an email with detailed instructions a few days before the start date. “We will provide links on our website to several local certified four-mile courses that can be used to complete the virtual run, as well as some suggestions for other areas such as the Zim Smith Trail or Corning Preserve that will work.  Once participants complete their four-mile run, they will be asked to submit their times via the link provided to them along with a photo of their watch/GPS/RaceJoy results. All times must be submitted by Saturday, July 11 at 11 p.m. Results will then be compiled and posted online at firecracker4.com.

“The focus of our virtual runs isn’t about winning,” added Lynskey. “It’s about staying active, celebrating our strengths and supporting our local community.  So, while we will not be gathering en-masse this July 4th at the City Center for that big start down Broadway and post-race party, we can all run or walk four miles wherever we are and help others in the process and that is something to feel good about.”

All participants in the Virtual 4-Mile will be entered to win various giveaways from area merchants and sponsors. Prizes include gift certificates, swag from Michelob Ultra, 30min sessions in the Normatech Recovery Room and foot massage gift certificates courtesy of Fleet Feet Sports, Power Surge protein butters from Power House Athletics and an array of other products or services.

“We will be creating packages full of great stuff that runners want, need and will love and will be doing weekly drawings starting in early June. We are enthusiastic about making the best of it and hope people will join us.” 

Photos provided.

Return to the rhythm of nature while gliding through the lily pads and coasting along the sparkling, sunlit water.

Let your tension melt away with a visit to Fish Creek, a world away from it all, where the gentle sounds of songbirds and splashing fish are reminders of the enduring wellness that surrounds you.

The Kayak Shak on Stafford’s Bridge Road opened for the season on May 20th, just as the pleasant weather was beginning to shine its sunny face on the gentle waterway that connects Saratoga Lake to the Hudson River in Schuylerville.

“It worked out very nicely for everybody. This was the only place to be,” said the Kayak Shak’s manager, Suzanne Carpenter. 

GOING WITH THE FLOW

Getting out onto the water in a kayak or paddleboard is ideal for following this year’s social-distancing guidelines, but the Kayak Shak is taking additional steps to ensure they are offering a safe experience for everyone.

Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Go: 

• Limited Launches. To control crowding and keep things flowing steadily, the Kayak Shak is allowing 10 watercrafts to launch every 15 minutes. Guests are requested to arrive no more than 10 minutes early. To discourage gathering, no tables, chairs, or hammocks have been set up this year. Small groups will be allowed. SUP Yoga classes have been cancelled. 

• Reservations are highly encouraged. Before you head to the water for a day of fun, call or book a launching time online. By paying and signing the safety waiver electronically, you help ensure a speedier process time at the check-in window. The building is closed, but the restrooms are open. 

• Wear a Mask. Guests are asked to wear a mask during launch and upon their return to shore. The staff are wearing masks, as well. The watercrafts, lifejackets, and paddles are being cleaned and disinfected after each use. 

FIND YOUR HAPPY PLACE

More than ever, locals are finding that a regular trip to the Kayak Shak is a great way to spend their free time. 

“Come out and enjoy the summer by being out on the water. We provide some excitement and a chance for people to learn something new – they’re so grateful for that,” said Carpenter

The Kayak Shak has 85 kayaks and 74 paddleboards available for rent. They also offer watercraft storage for those with their own boats who want to use this access point to reach the water. A limited number of storage slips are still available. There is a launch fee of $10/boat. 

If you need to cancel or reschedule a reservation and provide at least 24 hours’ notice of the change before your launch time, you will be given a full refund.

The Kayak Shak, 251 County Route 67, Saratoga Springs, is open 7 days/week, 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. Single kayaks and paddleboard rentals are $25/person for 3 hours or $45/person for 6 hours. Double kayaks are $50/half day or $85/full day rental. For more information and to make a reservation, call 518-587-9788 or go to www.kayakshak.com

Everybody in the family is ready for an outing and Airway Meadows Golf Club in Gansevoort is teed up to serve them.

“Our conditions are outstanding this year. There was not too much rain in the spring, the greens look wonderful, and the fairways are really outstanding,” said Joan Heber, Airway Meadows Vice President and Manager. 

The 18-hole championship course is just 15 minutes from Saratoga Springs in a unique setting that offers views of their black angus beef farm, a plane runway, and quaint covered bridges.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS IN PLACE
To ensure your family has a worry-free day out, special social distancing and cleanliness safety precautions have been put in place this year.

The primary focus of these changes has been to limit contact with others and with the course’s shared equipment. 

NO CONTACT
The club’s tavern is closed, but food and beverages are still being served to-go and most of their regular menu choices are available. 

Touching the flagstick is not permitted, and there are no ball washers or rakes allowed. The holes were temporarily filled with a raised cup but now have a filler cup so the ball still partially rolls in for a more satisfying experience. 

“People don’t seem to mind the changes. They’re happy with what we have and they understand why we’re doing it,” said Heber. 

Professionals disinfected all Airway Meadows carts with Bioprotect, a biodegradable antimicrobial cleaner that provides 90 days of consistent protection against germs, including the Coronavirus. 

After each use, the carts are also washed and disinfected, ensuring they are sanitized and ready for the next golfers. 

NO CLUSTERING
While golf is inherently a no-contact sport, Airway Meadows enforces social distancing guidelines further by maintaining a one person per cart rule, informing patrons that groups must be limited to 10 people or less (until national restrictions indicate otherwise), and manning a starter at the first tee to provide information to players and answer any questions.

NO TOURNAMENTS (FOR NOW)
While Heber is hopeful that groups of up to 50 people will be permitted by mid-summer, almost all of the tournaments that had been scheduled for June have been cancelled. Some groups have rescheduled for later in the season and some have moved their events to the spring and summer of 2021. 

When tournaments begin again, shotgun starts will be replaced with consecutive tee times. Players are asked not to arrive more than 15 minutes before their tee time.

NO WALK-INS
Already a rarity, Airway Meadows is no longer allowing walk-ins. Golfers are asked to book tee times online or over the phone. The Pro Shop is open, but times, especially on Saturdays and Sundays, are filling up fast. 

“You sure want to save a time so you have that spot. It seems like we’re busier this year because there’s not much else kids and parents can do together. We’re seeing higher numbers this year. Plus, playing and walking around here, it’s good exercise,” said Heber.

For more information, go to www.airwaymeadowsgolf.com

MOREAU — Visiting the Moreau Lake State Park is going to require a bit of extra planning this year. With its 6,990 acres of land,  41 miles of hiking trails, and three lakes, Moreau Lake State Park is an excellent spot to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining social distancing during the pandemic. Before you go this summer however, it’s important that you familiarize yourself with the park’s new rules and regulations. 

The New York State Parks Department of Recreation & Historic Preservation establishes these guidelines to ensure the parks are safe for everyone. Updates and additional information can be found at parks.ny.gov/covid19

LIMITED DAY USE

Moreau Lake State Park is open daily, from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. Parking has been reduced by 50 percent.  On nice weather days, the park may reach capacity quickly, so getting an early start is key to getting in. Cars parked outside the designated areas, on Old Saratoga Road or Mountain Road, will be ticketed. Park capacity closure alerts are posted on the park’s Facebook page @MoreauLakeStatePark.

The nature center, playground equipment, and concession stands are closed. 

The swimming beach is open daily 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. They do ask that you maintain a six-foot distance from one another and to wear a mask when you are unable to maintain social distance. Those not adhering to these guidelines will be asked to leave. 

Beach-goers are advised to bring their own water and snacks. 

Lifeguards are on duty and have been given COVID-19 informational training. They now carry additional supplies to be able to disinfect equipment and safely help anyone pulled from the water. 

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RESERVATION ONLY CAMPING

Campsites and cabins at Moreau Lake State Park are now open to people with existing camping reservations. Restrooms are open, but wearing masks and maintaining social distancing in public areas is required.

A limited number of new camping reservations are being accepted but are expected to fill quickly. To make a reservation, call 1-800-456-CAMP or go to newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com. 

New York State Parks is allowing the transfer of existing camping reservations into the 2021 season and will waive the transfer fee until June 11th when completed online. 

New reservations are being accepted for the 2021 season, as well. To avoid long telephone wait times, online reservations are encouraged. 

FREE FISHING JUNE 27 & 28

There are plenty of places to go freshwater fishing in New York’s 70,000 miles of waterways and more than 7,500 lakes and ponds. 

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation encourages everyone to have the opportunity to fish with periodic Free Fishing Days and Weekends throughout the year. The next Free Fishing Weekend, when you can fish without a license, will be on June 27th and 28th. 

Moreau Lake offers access to small, non-motorized boats and its average depth is 32 feet.  According to the DEC, this creates a nice refuge for rainbow trout during the hot summer days. The weedier, shallower northern end is good for large-mouth bass fishing.