Saratoga Race Course Welcomes 175+ Youths at 4-H Open House
4-H members pose alongside Iron Orchard, the winner of the 4-H New York race on July 3 at the Saratoga Race Course. Photo provided.
SARATOGA RACE COURSE — Last week, more than 175 4-H youth, volunteers, and families from across New York State gathered at the historic Saratoga Race Course for the first-ever 4-H Open House at the Track, hosted by the New York Racing Association (NYRA) and the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association.
Participants spent the day enjoying reserved picnic tables and grandstand seating, paddock tours, and even a special moment in the Winner’s Circle during the 4-H New York Race on July 3, which was won by Iron Orchard.
Throughout the day, the 4-H community booth welcomed attendees with free giveaways, games, and crafts (including “draw your own jockey silks” and horseshoe painting). Youth and families also heard from Jenna Antonucci, the first woman trainer to win a Triple Crown race; Davis Klein, NYRA’s Equine Biometric Specialist; and other professionals such as track veterinarians and race horse owners.
The inaugural event was a celebration of New York’s equine industry and 4-H’s long-standing commitment to youth development.