BALLSTON SPA — For the first time ever, LPGA trailblazer and CBS golf broadcaster Dottie Pepper will appear at the Ballston Spa Public Library on Nov. 6 at 11 a.m. to meet fans, present a reading, and sign copies of her newly released book, Letters to a Future Champion: My Time with Mr. Pulver.

A Saratoga Springs native, Dottie Pepper has risen to fame over her nearly 40-year career as a 17-time LPGA tour champion, serving on the PGA of America Board of Directors from 2012-2015 and her induction to the New York State Golf Association Hall of Fame in 2018. She is now the lead walking reporter for CBS Sports’ covering all levels of televised golf, including the PGA Tour, Master, and PGA Championship. 

Now taking her career to the next level as a bestselling author, Dottie’s book acts as a loving tribute to the power a mentor can have in an athlete’s career. Through years of handwritten correspondence, Dottie traces the influence her mentor, George J. Pulver Sr., a golf great in his own right, had on her skills, as well as her character.

“It is a blueprint for honoring the history and traditions of the game of golf,” said Dottie. “It is also about mentorship, fundamental beliefs, curiosity, grit, grace, dreams, disappointment, success, and the value of education.” 

“To host celebrity golfer Dottie Pepper, close to her hometown of Saratoga Springs, is a real treat for the library and the Village of Ballston Spa,” said Andrea Simons, Library Director, Ballston Spa Public Library. “The messages in this book will not only inspire golf lovers but present powerful life lessons for all ages and interests and we are looking forward to a great event.” 

Books will be available for purchase and signing at this free event. Books are also available online in three editions – hardcover, softcover, and the leather-bound collector’s edition – at www.dottiepepper.net 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has announced that NYRA Bets Gift Cards will be available beginning Monday, Nov. 1 at participating Stewart’s Shops in Saratoga County in advance of the 2021 Breeders’ Cup World Championships. 

The Breeders’ Cup featuring 14 championship races worth more than $31 million in purse money, will be held Nov. 5 and 6 at Del Mar. 

NYRA Bets Gift Cards are preloaded with $50 to deposit in a NYRA Bets account, America’s leading online betting platform, and may be used to fund both active and new accounts. The funds will be available immediately when betting with NYRA Bets. There are no processing fees or premiums applied when purchasing or using NYRA Bets Gift Cards. NYRA Bets Gift Cards are available for purchase by cash only; credit cards are not accepted. 

Racing fans can also use the gift cards to bet online at hundreds of tracks nationwide, including the fall meet at Aqueduct Racetrack, which begins on Thursday, Nov. 11 and continues through Sunday, Dec. 5. 

NYRA Bets is the official wagering platform of The New York Racing Association, Inc. Fans who use NYRA Bets Gift Cards to open and fund a new account qualify for a sign-up bonus. The NYRA Bets app is available for download today on iOS and Android at www.nyrabets.com/Stewarts. 

Registering for a NYRA Bets account if free. For additional information, and to sign up today, visit www.NYRABets.com

Schuylerville ended their second consecutive season undefeated with a 54-20 win against Susquehanna Valley on Saturday, Oct. 23. 

The Black Horses got the scoring started in the first quarter with L. Sherman’s 5 yd. TD run and Ollie Bolduc’s 11 yd. fumble recovery TD, with a 2pt. conversion from O. Sherman to Ollie Bolduc. 

Schuylerville scored twice more before the half on: L. Sherman’s 6 yd. TD run and 2 pt. conversion, and L. Cumm’s 9 yd. TD run and 2 pt. conversion from O. Sherman to R. Dow. Susquehanna did all their scoring in the second quarter – Howard had a 16 yd. TD run, Bowman had a 20 yd. TD pass to Howard (Rychlewski 2 pt. conversion), and Rychlewski had a 4 yd. TD run.

Schuylerville battled back against Susquehanna’s efforts in the third quarter with O. Sherman’s 23 yd. TD run, and 2 pt. conversion from O. Sherman to Otto Bolduc, and L. Sherman’s 4 yd. TD run, and 2 pt. conversion from O. Sherman to Dow. They rounded off their scoring in the fourth quarter with L. Sherman’s 8 yd. TD run – his fourth TD of the game. 

Schuylerville had 384 offensive yds., 256 of them rushing, with lead rushers of the game being Cumm with 15 carries for 92 yds. and 1 TD, L. Sherman with 16 caries for 84 yds. and 4 TDs, and O. Sherman with 7 carries for 61 yds. and 1 TD. 

Quarterback O. Sherman threw 12 passes for 14 for 128 yds. 

Receiving, Otto Bolduc had 7 catches for 73 yds., Dow had 3 catches for 39 yds., and Cumm had 2 catches for 16 yds. 

 Defensive highlights for the Black Horses included Ollie Bolduc’s 11 yd. fumble recovery TD, A. Luzadis’s fumble recovery, and C. Patrick’s fumble recovery. 

Susquehanna had 184 total offensive yds., 184 of them rushing. Top rushers for the team were Rychlewski with 12 carries for 70 yds. and 1 TD and Howard with 6 carries for 58 yds. 

Passing, Quarterback Bowman completed 3 for 6 for 49 yds. Receiving, Howard had 2 catches for 29 yards. 

Schuylerville’s first post season play-off game will be on Thursday, Oct. 28 at Schuylerville High School. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Central Catholic held a ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 23 to celebrate the coaching careers of Bill Dalrymple and Bob King ’55; they unveiled the dedication of the gym to Coach Dalrymple and the dedication of the court to Coach King. 

“They were leaders on and off the court,” said Athletic Director Alphonse Lambert. “They taught more than just basketball, but also life’s lessons. Their success is evident – winning more than 75% of games.” 

Coach Bill Dalrymple was a boys varsity basketball coach from 1947-1978, with an overall record of 384-161. He coached the St. Peter’s Academy/Saratoga Central Catholic Varsity Basketball Team from 1971-1978 and has a career record of 113-36; at .758, he has the highest winning percentage in school history. 

With four basketball section championships and numerous league championships at Saratoga Springs High School under his belt, Coach Dalrymple moved across town to coach at St. Peter’s High School; becoming the first coach in school history to coach in the Section 2 basketball tournament and to win a sectional game. 

His 1973 St. Peter’s team is still the only sports team in school history to win a state championship, and his 1977 Saints made it all the way to the NYSPHSAA Final 4. 

Coach Dalrymple was inducted into the City of Saratoga Springs Hall of Fame in 1994, the St. Peter’s/SCC Hall of Fame in 1999, the Saratoga Springs High School Hall of Fame in 2011, and the Capital District Hall of Fame also in 2011. 

Matt Winn ’75 was coached by Dalrymple and explained how the coach had an impact on him and his teammates.

“He taught us how to be leaders, and how to get acclimated into adulthood,” said Winn of the transition going from JV to Varsity and sophomore year to junior year. 

“Coach Dalrymple and Coach King had a profound effect on years of people,” added Winn regarding the dedication. “This is well deserved for both of them” 

Coach Bob King began his coaching career at St. Peter’s as the JV Basketball coach from 1964-1971; becoming the Varsity Boys Basketball Coach from 1978-1995, with a career record of 263-103, 12 league championships, and 6 Section 2 finals appearances. 

His 1989 Saints, undefeated in the Northern Conference, won the Section 2 Class C-CC Championship and Regional Championship and advanced to the NYSPHSAA Final 4. 

Coach King was inducted into the St. Peter’s/SCC Hall of Fame in 1999, and most recently, the Upstate New York Basketball Hall of Fame in 2021. 

“When we lost, although it didn’t happen often, he would take the blame himself that he didn’t do enough to prepare us,” said Larry Hart ’82, reflecting on his time playing for Coach King. 

“It was exhilarating to walk onto the court being the best team out there,” added Lou Maggiore ’78, who had winning seasons playing for both coaches. 

“They cared about you, about getting to you know you,” said Maggiore. “We were taught how to win graciously, to bring 100%, and to leave it all on the court.” 

Drop In Sessions 

The Saratoga Springs Recreation Center at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue is currently offering Open Adult (18+) Basketball, Open Gym, and Pickleball sessions. A City or non-City Rec Card is required in order to participate. Masks are required regardless of vaccination status. 

Visit www.SaratogaRec.com and click the basketball for the schedule, information, and to register for your City or non-City Rec Card. 

Get In the Ring 

Get in the ring with the Rec Department’s Boxing Programs, co-sponsored by Saratoga Youth Boxing from Oct. 25-Oct. 29. Everyone ages 8-15 is welcome. 

Visit www.SaratogaRec.com and click Programs, Boxing for complete information and to register. 

Join Saratoga Rec Basketball Where Every Shot Counts!

Registration is open for the Rec. Department’s Fall/Winter Basketball Program. Everyone age 3-5 and Grades K-12 are welcome. 

Visit www.SaratogaRec.com and click Programs for complete information and to register. 

Winter Program Registration

Registration for the Rec Center’s Winter Programs begins Nov. 1. Choose from Tiny Basketball (ages 3-5), Intro to Basketball (grades K-1), Volleyball (ages 8-16), and Ice Skating (ages 3-99). 

Visit www.SaratogaRec.com and click Programs for complete information and to register. 

Learn to Skate

Learn to skate with the Rec Center’s Intro to Ice Skating Program. Learn the basics of ice skating and build upon skills already learned. Children age 3 and up as well as adults are welcome. 

Visit www.SaratogaRec.com and click Programs, Ice Skating lessons for complete information and to register. 

Racquetball Rentals

Reservations for court times can be made through Community Pass. Fees are $5 for City residents with a verified Community Pass account and $8 for all others. Reservations and fees are per person/per hour. Participants must register for a Rec Card prior to coming. Participants must bring a racquet, racquetballs, and appropriate footwear. Masks are required regardless of vaccination status. 

Visit www.SaratogaRec.com and click Programs, Rec Center Drop-In Sessions for additional information and to reserve a court.

Join the Rec Center at the Ice Rinks!

The Saratoga Springs ice rinks at 30 Weibel Avenue is currently offering Open Figure, Open Adult (17+ and 65+) Hockey, Family Skate, Open Public, Family Stick, and Open Stick sessions. A City or non-City Rec Card is required for Open Figure, Open Adult (17+ and 65+) Hockey, Family Stick, and Open Stick sessions. A City Rec Card is required in order to obtain the City discount for Family Skate and Open Public sessions. Masks are required regardless of vaccination status. 

Visit www.SaratogaRec.com and click the ice skate for the schedule, information, and to register for your City or non-City Rec Card. 

MALAGA, SPAIN – Ari Berliner (23) from the Jason Morris Judo Center in Glenville, won a 66 kg bronze medal in the European Open in Malaga, Spain on Saturday, Oct. 23. Berliner defeated Scott Thomson (England) and Bruno Barros (Portugal) before losing in the quarterfinal to Ben Gomes (France). Berliner dropped to the losers’ bracket and beat Diego Fernandez (Spain) and Adrian Nieto (Spain) in the bronze medal match. This was Berliner’s first major medal on the International Judo Federation Tour which bodes very well for his hopes to make it to the 2024 Olympics in Paris, France. Ari jumps up to a career high #57 on the world ranking list in 66kg with this result. 

TROY — In-person road racing returns to the Collar City on Thanksgiving morning for the 105th anniversary of the Troy Turkey Trot and event organizers are seeking volunteers for a variety of positions both on race day and during the week leading up to the road race. 

Individuals and small groups are needed to affix labels to runners’ bibs Friday, Nov. 19 (2-5 p.m.) and Tuesday, Nov. 23 (5-7 p.m.) at the Italian Community Center (ICC) at 1450 5th Ave, Troy. Volunteers are also sought Nov. 19-25 (various hours) to assist with drive-through packet pick-up, event set-up/clean-up, forklift operation, course set-up, course marshals, water stop, start/finish line, refreshments, awards, swag mailing, and unloading and separating t-shirts. 

“An event the size of the Troy Turkey Trot cannot be successful without the support of around 400 volunteers,” said Troy Turkey Trot Volunteer Director Bob Barnes, noting that he has a myriad of openings at various times during the day and evening that need to be filled. “Whether folks have a few hours or more to spare, we’d appreciate their support to ensure the Trot’s century-long tradition.” 

Barnes said he welcomes applications from regional groups. Through the event’s Group Volunteer Incentive Program, the Trot provides cash donations to clubs or organizations in return for providing small groups to work at the event. Groups of 10-14 volunteers earn $200, while groups of 15 or more volunteers receive $300. 

“To help you just need to be 16 years or older,” he explained. “Everyone receives our commemorative t-shirt and refreshments.” 

To learn more about specific volunteer opportunities and times, please visit www.runsignup.com/Race/Volunteer/NY/Troy/TroyTurkeyTrotNY. For specific questions, please email rbarnes4@nycap.rr.com. 

For more information and to register for the 5K, 10K, Grade School Mile, Turkey Walk, and costume contest, visit TroyTurkeyTrot.com. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — After an impressive Suburban Council win, the Saratoga Springs Varsity Boys Golf is headed to the state tournament in the spring. 

Placing ahead of Shenendehowa and Shaker, the Saratoga Varsity Boys Golf Team became the Suburban Council champions by 19 strokes, with all boys scoring under 80. Since their Suburban Council win, they have competed in sectionals and state qualifiers. 

“In sectionals we shot in 3rd place and were 7 strokes off the lead, but they rebounded at the state qualifiers and took 3 of the 11 spots at the state tournament,” said Jake Zanetti, Varsity Boys Golf Coach.

Competing at the state tournament this spring will be Kellen Dean and Carter Sica, with Declan Ladd as a second alternate. 

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“They put pressure on themselves for a perfect season,” said Zanetti. “They want to be undefeated, they want to win the Suburban Council, and sectionals, and make it to the state tournament.” 

Zanetti noted that in addition to the boys’ own determination and hard work, a great deal of their success can be credited to local instructors and pros like Anders Mattson, Bob Cain, Kevin Hughes, and Brandon Risler. 

“They pump out high level junior and youth golfers year-in and out, and dedicate countless hours of time and energy into our players,” said Zanetti.

The team alternates between practicing and hosting opponents at both Saratoga Spa State Park and McGregor Links Country Club. Zanetti mentioned that owners Bill Richardson at the Spa and Joe Kehn at McGregor have been generous and accommodating getting the boys on the courses. 

“It is a great partnership with the community,” said Zanetti. “Michael Decker, the first-year pro at McGregor, and his staff have been excellent throughout the entire season in juggling schedules and providing tee times, as well as a top-rate golf course. The boys feel very ‘at home’ at both courses.” 

SCHUYLERVILLE — Schuylerville Girls and Boys Varsity Soccer programs hosted Glens Falls for their annual Kickin’ Out Cancer games on Wednesday, Oct. 13. The games served as fundraisers to raise money and awareness for cancer through a gift basket raffle, a 50/50 raffle, and a half-time walk around the track with pink balloons for donation. Close to $6,000 was raised, and all proceeds went towards the Beth Roberts Scholarship Fund. Varsity Girls played at 5 p.m. and Varsity Boys played at 7 p.m., with both teams picking up 4-0 shutout wins for a great night of fundraising. 

The Varsity Girls Team divided their scoring evenly between each half. Macy Koval and Victoria Piteri each had 2 goals. Piteri added an assist and Gabby Everleth also recorded an assist. Claire Pelletier-Hoblock had 3 saves for Schuylerville in goal, and Robbie Gorton had 7 for Glens Falls. 

Four different players scored on the Varsity Boys Team. Ryan Piteri, Chris Jones, Sam Tyler, and Corey Cottrell each had a goal, while Piteri tallied two assists. Balasai Witt played well for the Horses while Jack Motsiff had a solid game for the Indians. Both keepers, Ayden Grieve and Griffin Brophy, also played very well. 

Schuylerville’s Varsity Girls record is 8-7-1, while the Varsity Boys record is 9-2-1 in the league and 10-3-1 overall. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Central Catholic Girls Volleyball Program hosted their 13th annual Saints Spike Out Cancer fundraiser and Pink Day game on Friday, Oct. 15. They raised $1,560, and all proceeds from the day and both the JV and Varsity match were donated to the Mollie Wilmot Radiation Oncology Center of Saratoga Hospital. 

The Varsity Girls defeated Cambridge 3-0 (25-12, 25-7, 25-9) to complete a successful day of fundraising. 

Liz Best had 7 service points. Ella Constantino had 8 service points, 6 aces, and 3 assists. Allison Motler had 15 service points, 5 aces, 7 assists, and 3 kills. Elizabeth Whelan had 7 service points, 2 aces, and 2 kills. Kara Wengert had 15 digs. Charleigh Wagner had 7 service points, 2 aces, and 2 kills. Jacqueline Fornabia had 6 service points, 4 kills, and 1 block. 

Highlights for Cambridge include Gabby Fazioli with 1 kill and 6 digs.