The Saratoga Race Course Gates open at 11 a.m. each day, including weekends, with the exception of Runhappy Travers Day, Saturday, August 28.
The 2021 Saratoga summer meet will include the following events and happenings:

WEEK 2 RACE SCHEDULE
Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Friday, July 23
The day’s feature race is the Grade 3, $150,000 Lake George for 3-year-old fillies at a mile on the turf. 

Saturday, July 24 
Saturday will be highlighted by the Grade 1 Coaching Club American Oaks, during which 3-year-old fillies will compete for a purse of $500,000 going nine furlongs. The day’s card will also include the Grade 3, $200,000 Caress for fillies and mares.

Sunday, July 25
Sunday’s card will feature the Grade 3, $200,000 Shuvee for fillies and mares going two turns on the dirt. 

Wednesday, July 28
Features the Honorable Miss Handicap (Grade 2) and the NYSSS Cab Calloway Division. 

Thursday, July 29
Features New York-bred John Morrissey Handicap. 

FRIDAY, JULY 23

Volcan Tequila Summer Music Stage
The Volcan Tequila Summer Music Stage will host live music from the Franklin Micare Band.

Piazza Italia: The Piazza Italia, located in the Saratoga Events Pavilion, near Gate A, will host live music featuring Nick Collucio from 12 to 4 p.m. Fans may enjoy authentic Italian food and beverages at the Piazza Italia every day of the Saratoga meet, including sandwiches on Focaccia with Italian meats and cheeses, Fratelli Beretta cold cuts, Monti Trentini cheeses, Italian Bindi Gelato, Tiramisu, Prosecco, Pinot Grigio, Lambrusco and Peroni Beer.

SATURDAY, JULY 24

Lustgarten Foundation Day
Saratoga will honor the legacy of trainer Dominic Galluscio with a day to benefit The Lustgarten Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to advance scientific and medical research related to pancreatic cancer. The centerpiece of the day will be a trainer autograph session from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Jockey Silks Room Porch to benefit The Lustgarten Foundation.

Ford Mustang Mach-E Display
Fans will have the opportunity to check out the new all-electric 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E, which will be on display near the Clubhouse escalator throughout the afternoon, courtesy of Upstate Ford Dealer Group.

Tanqueray and Ketel One Tastings 
Fans will be invited to enjoy two complimentary tasting events on the second Saturday of the season: Tanqueray gin cocktails at the Tanqueray Bar on the second floor of the Clubhouse; and cocktails from award-winning Ketel One family made vodka at the Ketel One Clubhouse Bar. Both tastings will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Must be at least 21 years old; while supplies last.

Volcan Tequila Tasting and Summer Music Stage 
Saratoga Race Course will celebrate National Tequila Day with a complimentary tasting of tequila cocktails at the Volcan Bar in the backyard near the Fourstardave Sports Bar. The Volcan Tequila Summer Music Stage will host live music from Wyld Blue.

SUNDAY, JULY 25

Brunch at The Rail at the 1863 Club 
Fans are invited to enjoy a brunch buffet while experiencing The Rail at the 1863 Club, the first-floor banquet space at the 1863 Club. Tickets are $85 and include the buffet, soft drinks and Post Parade program book. Reservations are available by calling the NYRA Box Office at 844-NYRA-TIX or online at NYRA.com/1863Club.

Berkshire Bank Family Sundays
The popular kid-oriented weekly event will feature a wide variety of free family-friendly activities, games, attractions and educational activities each Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Berkshire Bank Family Zone, located inside Gate A near the Saratoga Race Course Box Office. 

Volcan Tequila Summer Music Stage
The Volcan Tequila Summer Music Stage will host live music from Reflections Soul Ensemble.

LOW ROLLER HANDICAPPING CONTESTS
Thursdays & Sundays
Thursday and Sundays at Saratoga pit yourself against your Saratoga peers on-track with the Low Roller Handicapping Contests. Buy-In: $40 ($30 bankroll/$10 prize pool) Contest ends with second to last race at Saratoga. How to Enter: Visit the Low Roller booth outside Fourstardave before the first race.

SEASON-LONG DAILY EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES:

BERKSHIRE BANK FAMILY ZONE
Fans will enjoy 40 days of the Berkshire Bank Family Zone, an interactive play area for children located near Gate A, which will be complemented by the return of Berkshire Bank Family Sundays. The popular weekly festival will include free games, attractions and educational activities each Sunday of the season inside the Berkshire Bank Family Zone.

BREAKFAST AT SARATOGA
Tram tour of our famous and historic stable area (weather permitting). The first tram leaves the main Clubhouse entrance at approximately 7:30 a.m. with additional trams leaving approximately every 15 minutes. The last tour departs at around 9 a.m. The Tour is available every race day (there is no breakfast on Runhappy Travers Day, Saturday, August 28). Driven by the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA).

Enjoy a morning buffet on The Clubhouse Porch while the thoroughbreds train on the main track. Breakfast is held daily from 7 to 9:30 a.m. and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.  No reservations are accepted for breakfast dining. $20 for adults and $12 for kids under 12. 

SARATOGA FASHION DAYS
Fashion Saturdays, which was previously held once each week, will expand to a 40-day series of pop-up boutiques featuring stylish clothing, accessories and jewelry for women and men. The Saratoga Fashion Days’ boutiques will be located in the following areas: Lifestyles of Saratoga across from the Jockey Silks Room Porch; Miss Scarlett, Saratoga Rocks and the Winning Silks Collection near The Stretch; and Bumble B Boutique near the paddock mutuels building (weekends only).

VOLCAN TEQUILA SUMMER MUSIC STAGE
Fans will enjoy live music performances each afternoon of the season from popular local and regional bands at the Volcan Tequila Summer Music Stage. Strolling entertainment from Saratoga mainstays Reggie’s Red Hot Feetwarmers and the Red Hot Dancers, amongst other acts, will also be a regular feature.

SARATOGA WALKING TOURS
History, highlights, unique architecture, and landscapes at Saratoga Race Course. Approximately 45 minutes. Daily Walking Tours bring the more than 150 years of history within Saratoga Race Course to life. Ever wonder why we ring a bell at 17 minutes to post or why there is a canoe in the lake in the infield? Take a guided tour to get to know The Spa! Tours are scheduled at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. each racing day and costs $3 per person or $10 for a family. For more information on our tours, please contact our Guest Services Department at 518-584-6200 ext. 4433.

SARATOGA WALK OF FAME
In 2013, NYRA began recognizing prominent thoroughbred industry owners, trainers and jockeys who have left a significant mark on Saratoga with a commemorative plaque and iconic red Saratoga jacket presented on the eve of the Travers Stakes, Saratoga’s signature race and the nation’s oldest major stakes race for 3-year-olds.

“We hope our guests will enjoy Saratoga’s newest attraction which is designed to highlight the contributions of our industry’s leading pioneers and achievers for decades to come.”

BETS SQUAD: LEARN. BET. WIN.
The Bets Squad is your one-stop-shop to learn how to bet! Learn the different types of bets, how to place a bet, how to read a program, how to use a self-service betting terminal, and how to sign up to bet from your phone on and off-track with NYRA Bets. NYRA Bets allows you to securely deposit electronically and play great racing from Saratoga to Del Mar and across the world online and from anywhere, anytime. The Bets Squad is open daily and can be found at the following locations:
• Outside Clubhouse Exchange
• Under Clubhouse after entering Clubhouse exchange
• Grandstand
• Backyard, close to the Red Spring
• The Stretch (for ticketed guests)
• 1863 Club Lobby (for ticketed guests) (NYRA Bets VIP Concierge is located here)

Her horses are running well, but they are getting claimed quickly, as she still seeks her first career win.

Many new trainers find it challenging to win their first race, especially with a small stable.

Michelle Giangiulio’s experience is not much different. However, along with trying to get her first career victory, she has a difficult time of keeping horses.

Since becoming a trainer earlier this year, Giangiulio started four separate horses. While each horse ran well with either a second- or third-place finish, three of those horses have been taken by other owners or trainers through the claiming box.

Wagon Boss was the latest horse taken from her following his third-place finish in the first race of Saratoga Race Course’s Opening Day card.

After the race, Giangiulio went into the racing office and learned that 11 trainers submitted a $12,500 claim for the 8-year-old gelding. Eventually, Jeffrey Englehart became the new owner and trainer of Wagon Boss after the “shake,” a lottery process used when there are multiple claims on a horse.

“I went into the racing office, and it was packed. I didn’t realize they were shaking on my horse,” she said. “My horses keep getting claimed and we are losing shakes. It is tough when you have only 3-4 horses, then you lose one. The hardest part is keeping stock. You never know when you will get another one in [the stable].”

Giangiulio fell into that situation with her first career start and just one horse: Parade Field. She entered that 5-year-old gelding for a $20,000 claiming tag at Aqueduct on Feb. 15. After Parade Field was claimed with his third-place finish, that put her in a difficult situation – no horse to train.

It took a couple of months for Giangiulio to regroup with the help of Marshall Gramm, a founding partner of Ten Strike Racing, Associate Professor in Economics at Rhodes College and two-time qualifier for the National Handicapping Championships. Along with Wagon Boss, Gramm sent her two other horses: Easy Shot and True Castle.

“Marshall Gramm has been so great by sending me horses,” Giangiulio said. “He has been really trying to help me out. He’s really supportive. He actually sent Wagon Boss to Indiana Grand after he claimed him. He told me this horse might be OK going long at Saratoga for $12,500. He looked fantastic.”

While it can be discouraging to lose horses through the claiming box, Giangiulio has a sense of affirmation knowing that owners and trainers are interested in her horses because of their condition going into a race.

“I think it says a lot,” Giangiulio said. “The horses look good. They are running well. Every horse that I have run, except for True Castle, has been claimed. Everyone tells me that it is a good thing. It feels good that someone takes my horses because they are in the right spot. At the same time, it’s part of the mixed emotions because I lose a horse.”

Since being a child and teenager, Giangiulio has always enjoyed being around horses. The South New Jersey native started working and riding show horses while going to Hammonton High School.

After graduating from high school, she became interested in working with Thoroughbreds and crossed the Delaware River to Parx Racing, just north of Philadelphia where Juan Carlos Guerrera, trainer of the 2019 Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile champion Spun to Run, hired her as a groom and an assistant.

Giangiulio got her first glimpse of New York racing in 2014 when she travelled with Guerrera to bring Classic Giacnroll to Aqueduct for the Jerome Stakes and Withers Stakes. Attracted to the New York racing scene, Giangiulio left Parx for Aqueduct and Belmont to work for various trainers, including Chad Brown, Jena Antonucci, Joe Sharp, Thomas Morley, and Kelly Breen.

Giangiulio did not come to Saratoga until 2016 when she was an assistant to Sharp. While Sharp spent most of that season staying in Kentucky, she helped the stable win four races that meet.

“We had a good meet that year,” she said. “Joe had a second baby, so he wasn’t up here as much. I had to run everything up here. We had a solid team. It was fun. From Parx to Belmont, that was a big jump. When I went from Belmont to Saratoga, I said, ‘I am in the big leagues.’ It was awesome.”

That is not the only awesome experience for Giangiulio since coming to New York. Three years ago, she got a chance to see one of her favorite horses who made history: Triple Crown winner Justify.

She had always been fond of the son of Scat Daddy after winning his debut with a 9 ½-length margin in 1:21.86 for seven furlongs at Santa Anita. While Giangiulio was working for Morley, Justify was stabled across the street at John Terranova’s barn prior to the Belmont Stakes.

“I absolutely fell in love with Justify,” she said. “When he first ran, I knew he was going to be a Triple Crown winner. The way he was put together was perfection. He was stunning and a monster of a horse.”

Through many memorable experiences with horses for more than a decade, Giangiulio is hoping to build off of that as a one-person stable right now. While the days can be long, especially starting at 4 a.m., she does like to be her own boss.

“I love not having a boss,” she said with a little laughter. “For my whole life, I wanted to be my own boss and train my own horses. Everyone who I worked for was great and they knew what they were doing, but I love to see what I can do and see a horse progress from decisions that I made.”

“It’s really rewarding,” she added. “I knew all along that I could do it with all of the horses running good. That has been a really awesome part. I cannot be disappointed at all. I have a lot to look forward to the future.”

Week three of the 2021 racing season at Saratoga Race Course beginning July 28 will contain 8 stakes races, 5 of which are graded.

The highlight is expected to be the Grade 1 Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap at the sprint distance of 6 furlongs, but the richest race will be the Grade II Jim Dandy for three-year-olds at one mile and an eighth. Both will be run on Saturday. The full week offers stakes races at a wide array of distances, surfaces, ages and gender.

The biggest race of the week will be Saturday’s Grade II Jim Dandy at a mile and an eighth for three-year-olds. The race is named after the winner of the 1930 Travers – Jim Dandy – who pulled off one of the most famous upsets in racing history. The longest shot in a small field of four, Jim Dandy defeated Triple Crown winner Gallant Fox and multiple Saratoga winner Whichone.  Taking advantage of a sloppy track that he relished and a speed duel between the two favorites, Jim Dandy bounded up along the rail to an astonishing winning margin of 8 lengths at odds of 100-1.  Legend has it that the win was such a windfall for the bookmakers and so devastating a loss for the betting public that many fans left immediately for the train station to return south to New York City.  Attempting to save the remainder of the race meet the suddenly flush bookmakers sent people to intercept the dejected fans before they boarded the train.  With promises of free meals and free drinks all night at local establishments many bettors did return to town to drown their sorrows. The phrase heard for many years of “that was a Jim Dandy of a night!” paid homage to the Travers winner and the circumstances that ensued. The gambit of the bet takers was successful as once Monday rolled around the New York City bettors had forgotten their losses and faced a fresh week of betting challenges.    

Traditionally a prep race for the Travers’ Stakes to be later in the meet (eleven runners have won both), the $600,000 purse assures a quality field and this year the expected favorite is Belmont Stakes winner Essential Quality.  The Godolphin homebred has won 6 of 7 lifetime races, with his only loss coming in a good effort in the Kentucky Derby. Widely considered the best three-year-old in the country – wins in the Jim Dandy and Travers would assure his spot as champion three-year-old of 2021.

The Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap also on the Saturday card is a top-notch Grade I affair. This sprint at 6 furlongs offers a purse of $350,000 and is named after racing icon Alfred G. Vanderbilt Jr., the former Chairman of the Board of the New York Racing Association and owner of Champion racehorse Native Dancer.  This race is a handicap race with runners carrying different weights to make the race competitive among all runners. The expected high weight and race favorite is Whitmore an 8-year-old gelding who won last year’s Breeders’ Cup Sprint and was named Champion Sprinter of the Year. Whitmore was second in this race last year and despite being second in two of his three starts this year seems to have maintained his form. A winner of 15 races and $4.4 million, Whitmore is a fan favorite and is taken to find the winner’s circle here as he seeks to make it to the Breeders’ Cup sprint again to defend his title.

Saturday will also feature the Bowling Green, a grade II run on the grass at the marathon distance of one mile and three-eighths. The Bowling Green is expected to produce a large field with nominees including last year’s winner Cross Border and stakes winners Arklow, Colonel Liam, Channel Maker and Gufo.

Before the big Saturday races, Wednesday features a sprint handicap at six furlongs for fillies and mares. The Honorable Miss is named after the stretch running stakes winner of the mid 1970s who had a penchant for beating males with her tremendous closing kick. This year the expected high weight and favorite is Kimari, a filly trained by Wesley Ward who has won 6 of 10 races, including one at Saratoga and notably has been second twice at Royal Ascot. 

Wednesday also has the New York Sire Stakes series named after famed musician Cab Calloway. At a mile on the grass for New York breds the race is expected to produce a competitive field.

Thursday again features horses bred in New York with the John Morrissey – a handicap at 6 ½ furlongs offering a purse of $100,000. 

Friday’s stakes race is a restricted stake named after Curlin at a mile and one-eighth. This race is restricted to aspiring three-year-olds who have not won a stakes race at over a mile in 2021. Despite its restricted status, the Curlin has produced Travers runners in the past. 

SUNDAY completes the week with another stakes for three-year-olds – the Amsterdam. This race is at 6 and ½ furlongs and will draw from the same pool of entrants as the Curlin. 

*Key: GI= Grade 1 Stakes  |  GII= Grade 2 Stakes  |  GIII= Grade 3 Stakes

SARATOGA SPRINGS – The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) announced a series of new and returning attractions, entertainment and events for the 2021 season at Saratoga Race Course, which began Thursday, July 15 and continues through Monday, Sept. 6.

Gates open at 11 a.m. each day, including weekends, with the exception of Runhappy Travers Day, Saturday, August 28. Post time for the first race on Opening Day is 1:05 p.m.  

The 2021 Saratoga summer meet will include the following events and happenings:

HEALTH CARE HEROES AND FIRST RESPONDERS DAY

Friday, July 16

NYRA will recognize the contributions of health care workers and first responders during the Covid-19 pandemic with a day in their honor, presented by CDPHP. All health care workers and first responders will receive free Grandstand admission with proper ID. The afternoon will include a special trackside performance by the New York State Police Pipes and Drums. Presented by CDPHP.

FASHION CONTEST

Saturday, July 17

Racing fans will be invited to celebrate the tradition of style in thoroughbred racing with a new Fashion Contest with categories for Best Hat, Best Dressed Woman and Best Dressed Man. The event will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Whispering Angel Rosé display near the Travers Bar, presented by Moët Hennessy. All fans 21 years of age and older will enjoy complimentary samples of Chateau d’Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé, while supplies last.

Season-long Daily Events and Activities:

BERKSHIRE BANK FAMILY SUNDAYS

Every Sunday beginning July 18 

Berkshire Bank Family Sundays will feature a wide variety of free family-friendly activities, games, attractions and educational activities each Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Berkshire Bank Family Fun Zone.

Berkshire Bank Family Sundays are supplemented by the nearby Berkshire Bank Family Zone, a smoke- and alcohol-free interactive play area for children. Additional features include a complimentary phone charging station, courtesy of Berkshire Bank, and a giant Adirondack-style chair designed for photo opportunities.

NEW YORK THOROUGHBRED AFTERCARE DAY

Wednesday, July 21

NYRA joins the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and New York Thoroughbred Breeders in hosting the inaugural New York Thoroughbred Aftercare Day. Highlighted by the Rick Violette Stakes, the day will pay tribute to an array of organizations involved in finding new homes and careers for retired racehorses. 

MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY

Thursday, July 22

Saratoga Race Course will pay tribute to active military members and veterans in appreciation of their sacrifice and service to our nation. All veterans and active-duty military will receive free Grandstand admission with military ID.

SARATOGA COMMUNITY BOOTH

The Community Outreach Booth program will highlight a total of 40 non-profits throughout the season by sharing information about their work and fundraising initiatives. NYRA will also prominently feature its Community Partner of the Day in the Post Parade racing program which will be available for purchase at select retail locations across the Capital Region as well as throughout the New York City metropolitan area.

Friday, July 16: Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center

WEEK 1 RACE SCHEDULE 

Friday, July 16
Racing action continues with the Forbidden Apple (GIII). Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Saturday, July 17 
Features the Diana (G1) and Sanford (GIII). Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Sunday, July 18
Features the Coronation Cup. Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Wednesday, July 21
Features the New York-bred Rick Violette. Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Thursday, July 22
Features the A.P. Smithwick Memorial Steeplechase (G1) and the New York-bred Stillwater. Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Among the larger racing stables on the Saratoga Racecourse backstretch, there are many smaller ones that have a unique background. Peter Pugh is one of those.

Pugh enters his 45th season at Saratoga Racecourse with a variety of roles and experiences that includes an owner, trainer, buyer, and seller.

Like many people in horse racing, Pugh’s interest started with his parents who were fox hunter riders. His father was the captain of the last Calvary at Fort Riley in Kansas during World War II that attracted other horsemen such as the multi- athlete legend Pete Bostwick Jr. and Hall of Fame show jumping rider Bobby Burke.

“When World War II hit, a bunch of horse trainers went there,” Pugh said. “It was something back in those days.”

After working on the backstretch since he was 16 years old, Pugh started training horses in 1976 on the steeplechase circuit in the Mid-Atlantic and Carolina region. He also had horses competing at Delaware Park and Belmont Park.

Pugh eventually came to Saratoga with a couple of horses: War Reason, who gave him his first career win earlier that year at Camden, and Quilapayun. While neither horse finished in the money in their respective starts, War Reason came back a year later to give Pugh his first Saratoga win.

“They had a healthy circuit at those racetracks,” Pugh said. “We would go to Carolina, then to Maryland, Belmont, Delaware Park and Saratoga, and then back to Belmont until near Thanksgiving. During the interim, there would be the hunt meets in the fall and spring with a whole different set of horses. Steeplechase racing was healthy in those days. Saratoga had one every weekday.”

Pugh became more stationary in New York in 2003 when he started training for Happy Hill Farm. Over his career, Pugh was won 141 races for more than $3.1 million with horses that include stakes winner Sun and Shine, as well as multiple winners Roman Reign, Elroi, Lost Without You, Simeon, and Escapist.

While Pugh has trained several horses, he also spent a significant part of his career by purchasing and reselling horses, known as pinhooking, with some success. One of his more successful experiences was Time Bandit in 1997 and 1998.

Pugh purchased Time Bandit as a yearling for $85,000 at the Keeneland September sales. Six months later, he brought the horse to California for the Barretts sales and went unsold. That’s when Pugh decided to train the horse.

After a couple of months of training in South Carolina, Pugh took Time Bandit to Keenelend for his debut. Starting from post 11, Time Bandit got out of the gate quickly and drew away to an easy nine-length victory at 15-1 while covering the 4½ furlongs in 51.98 seconds, which was one of the faster times during the meet.

That victory quickly got the attention of some buyers.

“That afternoon, people were lined up to buy him,” Pugh said. “If you have a two-year-old who shows up at Keeneland in the spring, they bite. They don’t particularly have to win. They just show up to finish second or third.”

Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas eventually purchased Time Bandit for Padua Stables. After defeating eventual multiple graded stakes winning sprinter Yes It’s True in the Bashford Manor Stakes, Time Bandit won the Sanford Stakes and finished third in the Hopeful Stakes at Saratoga in 1998.

Today, Pugh has moved from purchasing yearlings to weanlings. While Pugh suggests there are some benefits to purchasing weanlings, he also indicated there are challenges.

“It makes sense to start with weanlings,” he said. “They are younger and probably a littler cheaper than the yearlings. It also gives you a larger time span to sell the horse, but they are harder to tell how they are going to turn out. Sometimes, you look at them and think they may change a certain way, but they don’t.”

One of his remaining weanlings from two years ago is Livingstone, who is by the late Pioneer of the Nile, sire of Triple Crown winner American Pharoah. Pugh bought the Virginia-bred colt for $385,000 for Cherry Knoll Farm at the Keeneland November sale in 2019.

“Those [Pioneer of the Nile] horses are usually big,” Pugh said. “This one didn’t grow. That’s why we didn’t sell him. He’s not small. He’s more like his dam’s sire [Montbook].”

Along with training a small set of horses in Barn 71 near the Oklahoma Training Track, Pugh operates the Skara Brae Stables in Melrose, which is about 20 miles southeast from the track.

The farm was already transformed into a horse development and training facility by the late Gene White, a retired physical education teacher, athletic director and football coach at both the Amsterdam and South Colonie school districts.

White named the century-old property, which was once dairy farm, as White Maple Farm Racing Stable as he owned and trained trotters that competed at Saratoga Raceway. Since taking over the farm, Pugh let the grass grow into the former half-mile dirt track to help train his horses, especially with the recent rainfall.

“The track is good, but we let it go back to turf,” Pugh said. “With that stone dust base, it really built a nice turf course. It handles the rain well.”

After five decades of experience of buying, selling, and training horses, Pugh still acknowledges that horse racing is not an easy sport.

“The whole game is difficult,” Pugh said. “It doesn’t matter how much expertise you may have, you need to get lucky, too.”

Week two of the 2021 racing season at Saratoga Race Course beginning July 21 will contain 7 stakes races, 4 of them graded, including the Grade 1 Coaching Club America Oaks for three-year-old fillies and the first steeplechase stakes of the year – the Grade 1 A. P. Smithwick Memorial. Five of the stakes races this week focus on the distaff set at distances ranging from five and one-half furlongs to a mile and one-eighth.

The Coaching Club America Oaks will highlight Saturday’s card.  For three-year-old fillies at a mile and one-eighth it offers a purse of $500,000. Among the most influential races in racing history, this race has been won by a host of champion fillies, including, Shuvee, Chris Evert, Ruffian, Davona Dale, Mom’s Command, Lite Light, Sky Beauty, Songbird and Monomoy’s Girl. Malathaat an undefeated (5 for 5) daughter of Curlin, who most recently won the Kentucky Oaks for Hall of Fame inductee Todd Pletcher, is expected to head this year’s field with regular rider John Velazquez. The Coaching Club America Oaks is familiar territory for these connections as Todd Pletcher has trained 7 winners of this race and John Velazquez has won it five times. 

Saturday will also feature the Caress a grade III run on the grass at 5 ½ furlongs for older fillies and mares. 

Despite the historical significance of Saturday’s feature, the best horse of the week may be running Sunday when Swiss Skydiver returns in the Grade III Shuvee. The Shuvee is also at one mile and an eighth but is for older fillies and mares 4 & up. Named after Shuvee, a Hall of Famer who won the 1969 filly Triple Crown, this race has gone through numerous iterations since its inaugural running in 1974. It is fitting that Swiss Skydiver is running in the Shuvee since both fillies became famous by defeating colts.

Swiss Skydiver defeated colts last year in the Preakness and then won over the Saratoga course taking the Alabama in front of an empty grandstand. Swiss Skydiver is trained by Kenneth McPeek and has been working solidly at Saratoga leading up to the Shuvee. This is an opportunity to witness a future Hall of Fame runner. 

Before the big weekend races, Wednesday features a stakes for New York-bred two-year-olds at six-furlongs. The race is named in honor of Rick Violette who was a prominent trainer on the New York racing circuit for more than 35 years. Violette was the Chairman of the New York Thoroughbred Horseman’s Association board for 25 years; the chairman of the New York Jockey Injury Compensation Fund and co-chair of the board of the Backstretch Employee Service Team. He passed away in 2018 after a long illness. 

Veteran trainer James Bond remembered Rick Violette saying “Rick fought hard for the horses and the owners every day and deeply cared about the horses’ retirement from racing. He worked tirelessly to make things better. Horses were his world. Great horseman and man.” 

Fittingly, July 21 is also the first New York Thoroughbred Aftercare Day at Saratoga. The day will highlight various aftercare programs for retired racehorses. The post parade for the aforementioned Violette Stakes will be led by New York-bred millionaire Zivo. The winner of the 2014 Suburban Handicap, Zivo is now retired and enjoying life as the stable pony for trainer Cherie DeVaux. Barese, (named after the owner’s ancestral Italian home) was an impressive winner in his only start, is expected to top the field for trainer Mike Maker and owner Paradise Farms.

Thursday brings the jumpers to Saratoga with the Grade 1 A. P. Smithwick run over the hurdles at the elongated distance of 2 and 1/16th miles. The race is named in memory of Alfred Patrick “Paddy” Smithwick, who died in 1973 at the age of 46. Smithwick rode 398 winners during a career that began in 1945 as an amateur and ended in 1966 after a fall. Winning the Temple Gwathmey four times, the New York Turf Writers’ Cup three times, and the American Grand National three times. Smithwick was inducted into racing’s Hall of Fame in 1973. 

History-making trainer Keri Brion is hoping to send out three runners for the race – Galway Kid, French Lite and Baltimore Bucko. Ms. Brion, a former rider herself and assistant to legendary trainer Jonathan Sheppard, has exploded on the scene in 2021 with numerous winners. She made history earlier this year as the first American trainer to train a bumper winner and a hurdle winner in Ireland. She points to steeplechase as “a great outlet for flat horses to switch to and have a new career.”

Thursday also has the filly counterpart to the Rick Violette when New York Bred two-year-old fillies compete at six furlongs for a purse of $100,000 in the Stillwater. West Point Thoroughbreds’ Ready A.P., an impressive first out winner from the Christophe Clement barn, is expected to top a small field. 

Friday’s stakes race is the Grade III Lake George at one mile on the grass for three-year-old fillies. The race is always a competitive event giving late blooming runners the opportunity to gain stakes’ experience. Top trainer Chad Brown has won three of the last five runnings and is expected to again have multiple entrants.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —The long-awaited arrival of full capacity horse racing began Thursday, July 15, at the historic Saratoga Racecourse. The meet started as a four-day event in 1863 and is considered to be the oldest organized sporting venue in the country.

Today, the meet covers 40 days of racing, being “dark” on Mondays and Tuesdays until Labor Day weekend. The “SPA” will feature an unheard of 46 graded stakes races with eighteen being G1’s.  The most notable races include the Whitney, Alabama, Diana, Ballerina and the “mid-summer classic” Travers with a purse of $1,250,000, along with two G1 steeplechase races.

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) has let it be known through media outlets that patrons have to be fully vaccinated; if not, there is a small area for those who are not vaccinated in attendance.  NYRA expects more than a million spectators to pass through the turnstiles during the upcoming summer days. NYRA also anticipates all forms of wagering to surpass the $700,000,000 mark hit in 2020, both on and off track. 

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General Admission will be $7 and clubhouse $10-$12, excluding Travers Day.  There are many sites to purchase tickets in advance, but GA is always available as a walk-up. 

Picnic tables are available at the track for a premium and YES you can bring food and any beverage, but your cooler can only be 12″x18″.  One can consume on the lawn, far turn, and under the trees enjoying the many TV’s and hopefully returning to the windows to “cash” a marginal victory.

*Key: GI= Grade 1 Stakes  |  GII= Grade 2 Stakes  |  GIII= Grade 3 Stakes

SARATOGA SPRINGS – The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) announced a series of new and returning attractions, entertainment and events for the 2021 season at Saratoga Race Course, which begins Thursday, July 15 and continues through Monday, Sept. 6. Gates open at 11 a.m. each day, including weekends, with the exception of Runhappy Travers Day, Saturday, August 28. Post time for the first race on Opening Day is 1:05 p.m. The 2021 Saratoga summer meet will include the following events and happenings:

OPENING DAY

Thursday, July 15

The Saratoga Summer Meet kicks off with a day-long celebration including a live musical performance from Saratoga Springs-based Soul Session. Thursday’s card features the Quick Call (GIII) and Schuylerville (GIII). Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests. Presented by RunHappy.

HEALTH CARE HEROES AND FIRST RESPONDERS DAY

Friday, July 16

NYRA will recognize the contributions of health care workers and first responders during the Covid-19 pandemic with a day in their honor, presented by CDPHP. All health care workers and first responders will receive free Grandstand admission with proper ID. The afternoon will include a special trackside performance by the New York State Police Pipes and Drums. Presented by CDPHP.

FASHION CONTEST

Saturday, July 17

Racing fans will be invited to celebrate the tradition of style in thoroughbred racing with a new Fashion Contest with categories for Best Hat, Best Dressed Woman and Best Dressed Man. The event will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Whispering Angel Rosé display near the Travers Bar, presented by Moët Hennessy. All fans 21 years of age and older will enjoy complimentary samples of Chateau d’Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé, while supplies last.

BERKSHIRE BANK FAMILY SUNDAYS

Every Sunday beginning July 18 

Berkshire Bank Family Sundays will feature a wide variety of free family-friendly activities, games, attractions and educational activities each Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Berkshire Bank Family Fun Zone.

Berkshire Bank Family Sundays are supplemented by the nearby Berkshire Bank Family Zone, a smoke- and alcohol-free interactive play area for children. Additional features include a complimentary phone charging station, courtesy of Berkshire Bank, and a giant Adirondack-style chair designed for photo opportunities.

WEEK 1 RACE SCHEDULE 

Friday, July 16

Racing action continues with the Forbidden Apple (GIII). Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Saturday, July 17 

Features the Diana (G1) and Sanford (GIII). Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Sunday, July 18

Features the Coronation Cup. Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Wednesday, July 21

Features the New York-bred Rick Violette. Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

Thursday, July 22

Features the A.P. Smithwick Memorial Steeplechase (G1) and the New York-bred Stillwater. Tune in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

BETS SQUAD: LEARN. BET. WIN.

The Bets Squad is your one-stop-shop to learn how to bet! Learn the different types of bets, how to place a bet, how to read a program, how to use a self-service betting terminal, and how to sign up to bet from your phone on and off-track with NYRA Bets. NYRA Bets allows you to securely deposit electronically and play great racing from Saratoga to Del Mar and across the world online and from anywhere, anytime. The Bets Squad is open daily and can be found at the following locations:

• Outside Clubhouse Exchange

• Under Clubhouse after entering Clubhouse exchange

• Grandstand

• Backyard, close to the Red Spring

• The Stretch (for ticketed guests)

• 1863 Club Lobby (for ticketed guests)
   (NYRA Bets VIP Concierge is located here)

BREAKFAST AT SARATOGA

Tram tour of our famous and historic stable area (weather permitting). The first tram leaves the main Clubhouse entrance at approximately 7:30 a.m. with additional trams leaving approximately every 15 minutes. The last tour departs at around 9 a.m. The Tour is available every race day (there is no breakfast on Runhappy Travers Day, Saturday, August 28). Driven by the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA).

Enjoy a morning buffet on The Clubhouse Porch while the thoroughbreds train on the main track. Breakfast is held daily from 7 to 9:30 a.m. and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.  No reservations are accepted for breakfast dining. $20 for adults and $12 for kids under 12. 

SARATOGA COMMUNITY BOOTH

The Community Outreach Booth program will highlight a total of 40 non-profits throughout the season by sharing information about their work and fundraising initiatives. NYRA will also prominently feature its Community Partner of the Day in the Post Parade racing program which will be available for purchase at select retail locations across the Capital Region as well as throughout the New York City metropolitan area.

July 15: Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga, Inc

July 16: Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center

VOLCAN TEQUILA SUMMER MUSIC STAGE

Enjoy live music all day from the Volcan Tequila Summer Music Stage, the gazebo located in the middle of the backyard, from 1-5 p.m.

July 15: Soul Session

July 16: The Twangbusters

SARATOGA WALK OF FAME

In 2013, NYRA began recognizing prominent thoroughbred industry owners, trainers and jockeys who have left a significant mark on Saratoga with a commemorative plaque and iconic red Saratoga jacket presented on the eve of the Travers Stakes, Saratoga’s signature race and the nation’s oldest major stakes race for 3-year-olds.

“We hope our guests will enjoy Saratoga’s newest attraction which is designed to highlight the contributions of our industry’s leading pioneers and achievers for decades to come.”

SARATOGA WALKING TOURS

History, highlights, unique architecture, and landscapes at Saratoga Race Course. Approximately 45 minutes. Daily Walking Tours bring the more than 150 years of history within Saratoga Race Course to life. Ever wonder why we ring a bell at 17 minutes to post or why there is a canoe in the lake in the infield? Take a guided tour to get to know The Spa! Tours are scheduled at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. each racing day and costs $3 per person or $10 for a family. For more information on our tours, please contact our Guest Services Department at 518-584-6200 x 4433.

THE WHITNEY VIEWING STAND

The Whitney Viewing Stand is located at the Oklahoma Training Track across the street from Saratoga Race Course. It allows everyone to experience a bird’s-eye view of the horses’ morning training sessions and workouts. This gorgeous landmark was dedicated to the Whitneys – one of thoroughbred racing’s most dedicated and philanthropic families – in 2013 during the Saratoga 150 Celebration. Modeled after the 1892 Judges Stand at the Saratoga Race Course, the Whitney Viewing Stand seeks to keep the rich history of Saratoga alive by combining the new with the old. The Oklahoma Training Track is located across the street from the main Saratoga Race Course track. The easiest way to access the Whitney Viewing Stand is via Gate 21 on East Avenue. The Whitney Viewing Stand is open to the public as follows:

July 15 – September 6: 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. daily

PURCHASING TICKETS

Saratoga Race Course single-day general admission tickets are available on Ticketmaster.com. General admission tickets may also be purchased on the day of the event at all track admission gates. For more information visit nyra.com/saratoga. To order tickets by phone, please call 800-814-7846 or 518-584-6200, ext. 3568. Tickets may be purchased in person, Monday through Sunday during the racing season from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. A limited number of Grandstand seats are on sale each morning of a race day at the Ticket Office at Union Avenue Gate at 9 a.m. Closed Tuesdays. There is a limit of four seats per person.

It is August 1946, the summer after WWII ended. The Saratoga Racetrack had been closed for three years because the war had imposed travel restrictions, which financially ruined the tourist industry. The historical fiction novel Lake Lonely published by Shires Press sits ever present at Northshire Bookstore in Downtown Saratoga Springs. The same town with the same setting within the book. A local author writing about her local town seems cliche but somehow it resonates loudly with heartfelt conviction, especially this year of 2021. With the onset of the pandemic months behind us, one would be remiss not to notice the historical significance of the impact that the parallel storyline has to the countdown of Opening Day at the Saratoga Racetrack this season. Many of us are counting the minutes to be able to walk onto the revered grounds.

The novella, Lake Lonely, is a timely gift to our beloved town in Upstate New York which takes place the weekend prior to the track reopening. The tourists and natives are abuzz with ex citement, ready for the country’s pivotal resurgence. Saratoga Springs finds itself again at the doorway of the opening of our treasured racetrack. We are at a precipice, coming off an abrupt descent from the pandemic months and in hopeful mode on an upswing socially, economically and emotionally. We are a hometown that embodies all the joy feels a vacationland brings. We are drawn to the air of excitement, the tingles, the litany of gathering. We basically worship our beloved track. With that said, what better time to celebrate with a meaningful book experience!

This historical fiction novella started out being a love letter to this beloved destination city. But recently with the pandemic, it has become more significant. We have all gone back to cherishing the simple things. This has stirred up the universal theme of human connection, just like post WWII, the time period of the book. The story within the book is a journey piece. It takes you on an adventure, meandering through the streets and the places of this historical town. The adventure is one of a search for connection resulting from the lonely isolation caused by the war years and significantly relevant to today. A son and his working-class mother. A nephew and his    cantankerous uncle are merging from the isolation. Trying to hold on to the familiar and trying to make sense of the disconnect that had endured. It touches on themes of the American immigrant success story and women entering the work force during that time period. The language, music, film and pop culture references are weaved throughout to create an atmospheric, concise story with a hint of humor. Do not miss the existential soliloquy by the main character within the story.

The Everyman, Nicky B. The 25-year-old main character is relatable as he navigates his way. While yearning for success, he combines moral idealism and fortitude with his ineptitude of trying to get out of his own way. This results in a hilarious romp as the reader views him escalating his own troubles and the laugh out loud moments ensue. His big hearted, cranky Uncle Sallie and his hard working, keen sensed mother Mae, are the ever-present bookends that keep him standing up. That is, when he half listens to their advice without typically shrugging it off.

There are several literary devices used throughout this historical novel. Local book clubs have made this one of their choices for literary discussions. Although the setting is intended to be Saratoga Springs it contains the universal themes of immigration and the effects of the war which lends itself additionally to read for family history discussions. The book also is the perfect read to take to the Victoria Pool or by one of the local lakes. It is a heartwarming escape that will capture you from the first page. If you are gearing up for “Opening Day,” be sure to grab your copy at Northshire Bookstore on Broadway before they sell out. An added bonus, for those who love design is the beautifully rendered artistic cover that will be a focal point on any coffee table. The pages within also contain photographs from that time period in homage to Saratoga Springs courtesy of the Saratoga Springs History Museum. The need of supporting these historic institutions is especially of utmost importance during this time. Be sure to reach out to all of the cities treasured institutions and support them financially even with small donations. Go to muse- ums. Attend music concerts. Buy a book at independent bookstores. The intention of Lake Lonely was to bring to light some of the stories older generations have told us through the years. It is a small story with a big heart. Preservation in all forms is key. Go find your connection. Go find your joy. And most importantly, be grateful for the moments. Happy Opening Day to all!

Sue Jeffreys is a fourth generation Saratoga girl. This is her first novel. Her writing background includes a degree in English Literature and Arts Editor of her college newspaper. An avid reader and writer of all genres. Promoter of the arts. She resides in her historic town with her husband Bill Jeffreys, CPA, CVA. Both are thoroughbred horse owners. Proud mom of two children Drew and Mia. She is owner, collector and seller at Bella Vintage Shoppe. 

An excerpt from the book:

Saratoga Racetrack Opening Day: August 5, 1946

The women were all in ragout mode, dressed to the nines. It was a super duper day to be seen in your fashion finery. The men went all out, too. Dapper Dans with hats on their heads and cigars dangling from their mouths. Patrons carried the local newspaper, The Saratogian with the headline in bold letters announcing, “Crowds Jam City For Return of Racing,” and The New York Post touting the small bettors with their lead story, “Two-Buckers Crowd Spa.” It was a glorious day of all kinds of bettors with a boodle of cash in their pockets parading in, returning after a three year hiatus due to WWII rationing and closures.

The town had been in a holding pattern for those three summers and felt the economic loss along with the loss of spirit. Summer Saratoga gatherings were based around this ritual. With its closure, it left a gaping black hole in the social gathering pot. The gear up to August had lost its momentum until this reopening. The light revelry had descended upon the day and the excitement was contagious. Five thousand people stood in line early to get in for the eight race card that started at 2:30pm on this Monday to enjoy a full afternoon of horsey happenings.  Fun was on everyone’s mind with a unified conviction, looking to take part in this celebration that brought in more than fifteen thousand people on the track grounds. Opening day was back to stay. The people needed this summer venue because it was a ritual that was etched into their souls. Without it, they didn’t feel the same. They felt out of sorts. The magic was missing. Not to mention the economic impact it had. There was no doubt that it felt normal to be back again together at this unified gathering.

In the New York Herald Tribune, it stated that “There are bigger racetracks than Saratoga, but there is none like it.” This was no more apparent just by watching the way the track goers were rushing in to get to their favorite spots. The birds in the elm trees surrounding the paddock also seemed to be singing a tune of celebration. Mae and Sallie were hanging by the Clubhouse entrance as Jimmy Jazz strolled in after handing over his $1.60 admission fee and said to Mae, “Look at you, pure aces today!” Sal and Jimmy hugged it out. Their deep friendship bond seeping out between them, then stepped back and did the fist on top to bottom handshake. Jimmy with his warm grin said, “Flip the grip, my main man.” Mae screeched out in sarcasm, “You two bums, let’s get over to The Jim Dandy Bar before it gets crowded. I need to get my spot front and center at the bar before all those hussies try to make their moves on both you guys.” They began walking up the path leading into the Clubhouse, Mae in the middle with her arms entrenched in both mens arms. She looked at each of them out of the corner of her eyes and thought to herself, “I am one lucky lady!” but deep in her mind all she was thinking about was her
son’s whereabouts.

There are a couple of words that could describe the feeling and emotion around the Saratoga Racecourse backstretch as this year’s meet begins on July 15: excitement and optimism.

While last year’s meet was successful for many trainers and their staff, the COVID-19 pandemic stifled some of their excitement that would have been shared with fans and other people.

A year later, a lot of people around the backstretch are looking forward to the meet, especially since Saratoga Racecourse has been opened for training on the main track since April 17 with the Oklahoma Training Track starting almost a month later following its renovations.

One of those trainers is Hall of Famer Nick Zito, who has been a fixture near the Oklahoma Training Track since the mid-1970s with notable horses that include Kentucky Derby winners Strike the Gold and Go for Gin, Belmont and Travers winner Birdstone, and two-time Whitney winner Commentator.

“Of course, that’s what everyone wants – a sense of normalcy,” he said, “Obviously, there are going to be some wonderful horses coming up here. It should be a good meet. I hope everything goes smoothly. For the fans, they should see some wonderful racing. They always do.”

Some of the horses who are already on the Saratoga grounds include last year’s Alabama winner Swiss Skydiver, multiple Grade 1 stakes winner and last year’s Sword Dancer winner Channel Maker, and several of Chad Brown’s graded stakes winners.

Meanwhile, there are other trainers who are hoping to capitalize on last year’s success.

Jorge Abreu is one of those trainers after finishing 10th in the standings by winning 10-of-31 races with horses like Liveyourbeastlife, who won an allowance race before finishing second in the Jim Dandy Stakes, and Myhartblongstodady, winner of the Yaddo Stakes. Along with some of last year’s runners, Abreu has 45 2-year-olds who are currently training between Saratoga and Belmont.

“Last year, I had a great meet,” he said. “This year, it seems like my horses are even better, especially with my 2-year-olds. With the babies, when you start pressing on them, it will come down to how they react.”

Even though Abreu had a good Saratoga season, he had concerns about staying afloat as the pandemic forced a pause on New York racing last spring and going into the summer prior to the Saratoga meet.

“It was that bad,” he said. “Last summer, some of the owners took their horses back to the farm, which was the right thing to do. You are training horses for 4-6 months without knowing when racing will resume. We were pretty lucky to have a job and keep the racing going.”

With that part behind him, Abreu is also looking forward to seeing fans return to Saratoga for the 40-day season.

“We miss that action,” he said. “Having a grandstand that was empty wasn’t fun. I have been coming here since 1984. It has always been packed and crowded.”

The Bond Racing Team, with H. James “Jim” Bond as the trainer, is also hoping to come back for another strong Saratoga season following eighth-place tie in winning 12-of-40 races. Two horses that led the stable were Rinaldi, who won an allowance race before taking West Point Stakes, and Prioritize, also a winner of an allowance race who later finished third in the Woodward Handicap.

“We definitely had a successful meet last year,” said Ryan Bond, one of the Bond’s sons and assistant. “Horses were just missing [to finish first] at Belmont. They were very competitive in the spots. It was nice to get our noses down on a couple of those tight races.”

Though, Ryan Bond acknowledged that it was difficult to celebrate those wins without fans or some owners due to the pandemic.

“It was a little strange to have nobody to celebrate with it,” he said. “We couldn’t high-five owners. It was like a morning workout scenario, but with a little bit of cheering for your horse. You didn’t have anyone screaming along with you.”

The Bond family, who has a solid base in the Saratoga region with its Song Hill Thoroughbred Farm in Mechanicville, has seen the area become a little more relaxed and happy over the past couple of months.

“It is nice to see people smile again,” Ryan Bond said. “It seems like everyone has dropped their guard a little bit and shaking hands. I think everyone is happy it is at the back end of it.”

Carmouche to Cook for Principessa Elena Society

Jockey Kendrick Carmouche is planning to cook his increasingly famous gumbo at the Principessa Elena Society at 13 Oak Street on Monday, July 19 for members and their guests to benefit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.

Carmouche is looking to resume riding at Saratoga after suffering a broken right ankle after Kentucky Pharoah unseated him coming out of the gate in the last race on Belmont Stakes Day.

The cost is $25 per person and the event will run from 6-9 p.m. For more information, contact Fran LaBelle at 518-506-0705. 

Main photo/last photo in gallery by Super Source Media. Other photos provided.