SARATOGA SPRINGS – The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) announced a series of new and returning attractions, entertainment and events for the 2022 season at Saratoga Race Course, which begins Thursday, July 14 and continues through Monday, Sept. 5.
Gates open at 11 a.m. each day, including weekends, with the exception of Runhappy Travers Day, Saturday, August 27. Admission can be purchased at all track entrances on live racing days, as well as on Ticketmaster.com.
The 2022 Saratoga summer meet will include the following events and happenings:
Opening Weekend
Presented by Runhappy
Thursday, July 14 - Sunday, July 17
Opening Weekend, presented by Runhappy, will feature the traditional opening day graded stakes, the Schuylerville, on Thursday, July 14 and the first Grade 1 of the season, the Diana, on Saturday, July 16. Opening Weekend will be highlighted by live musical performances from Saratoga Springs-based Soul Session on Saturday and a fashion photo contest presented by Chandon Garden Spritz.
Week 1 Stake Races
Tune-in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.
Thursday, July 14
GIII Schuylerville: F2YO, 6 Furlongs - Dirt, Purse $175,000.
The Wilton: F3YO, 1 Mile - Dirt, Purse $135,000
Friday, July 15
Coronation Cup: F3YO, 5 1/2 - Turf, Purse $150,000
GIII Forbidden Apple: 4&UP, 1 Mile - Turf, Purse $175,000.
Saturday, July 16
GI Diana: F&M 4&UP, 1 1/8 - Turf, Purse $500,000
GIII Sanford: 2YO, 6 Furlongs - Dirst, Purse $175,000
Sunday, July 17
GIII Quick Call presented by Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation: 3YO, 5 1/2 Furlongs - Turf, Purse $175,000
Wednesday, July 20
GI A.P. Smithwick Memorial (Steeplechase):
4&UP, 2 1/16 - Turf, Purse $150,000
Suzie O’Cain (NYB): F3YO, 1 1/16 - Turf, Purse $125,000
Thursday, July 21
Rick Violette (NYB): 3YO, 1 1/16 - Turf, Purse $125,000
*Mondays and Tuesdays = Dark Days. No racing.
Taste NY Pavilion
Every Thursday - Sunday
Beginning July 14
New York-made food and adult beverages will be available for sample and purchase exclusively at the Taste NY Pavilion throughout the season! Race fans can visit the Taste NY Pavilion, located inside Gate A at the Top of the Stretch, to enjoy New York craft beer, cider, wine and spirits products, including: Brooklyn Brewery, Common Roots Brewing Company, Druthers Brewing Co., Frog Alley Brewing Co., Nine Pin Cider Works, Brotherhood Winery and Old Tavern Farm Winery, and spirits from Cooperstown Distillery, Great Jones and Pick Six Vodka, among other homegrown beverages.
Breakfast and Breeding Farm Tour
Every Friday beginning July 15
New this year, NYRA is launching the Saratoga Breakfast and Breeding Farm Tour. On Fridays, up to 40 guests will enjoy a buffet breakfast at Saratoga Race Course before taking a CDTA trolley to Old Tavern Farm where they will participate in a 90-minute walking tour of a working thoroughbred breeding farm. Admission to the races in the afternoon is included in the package.
Berkshire Bank Family Sundays
Every Sunday beginning July 17
Berkshire Bank Family Sundays will feature a wide variety of free family-friendly activities, games, attractions and educational activities each Sunday inside the Berkshire Bank Family Zone, located near Gate A at the Top of the Stretch.
Breakfast at Saratoga
Breakfast at Saratoga welcomes guests to enjoy a morning buffet at The Porch with a view of the thoroughbreds training on the main track. Breakfast is held every live racing day, except for Runhappy Travers Day and Labor Day. It is offered from 7 to 9:30 a.m. and is available on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not accepted.
Purdy’s Summer Concert Stage
Fans will enjoy free live music performances each afternoon of the season from popular local and regional bands at the Purdy’s Summer Concert Stage, including The Garland Nelson Band, The Lustre Kings, Franklin Micare Band, Alex Torres and his Latin Orchestra, Doc Scanlon, Donna Tritico Band, Captain Squeeze and The McKrells, among many others. This year’s summer music stage is sponsored by Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor in Saratoga Springs.
Thursday, July 14: Donna Tritico Band
Friday, July 15: Don Young Band
Saturday, July 16: Get Up Jack
Sunday, July 17: Diva & The Dirty Boys
Wednesday, July 20: Perennial
Thursday, July 21: Chris Carey Band
New York Thoroughbred Aftercare Day
Thursday, July 21
NYRA will partner with the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (NYTHA) and New York Thoroughbred Breeders (NYTB) in hosting the second annual New York Thoroughbred Aftercare Day. The day will pay tribute to an array of organizations involved in finding new homes and careers for retired racehorses. The featured race will be the Rick Violette Stakes, named for the late NYTHA President who was a founding member of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA).
Lustgarten Foundation Day
Saturday, July 23
Saratoga Race Course will honor the legacy of longtime NYRA 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. Many of the sport’s most popular trainers will sign autographs for fans with suggested donations to benefit the Lustgarten Foundation in Galluscio’s memory.
Stars at the Spa Series Presents Charles Oakley
Sunday, July 24
Fans will have the chance to meet retired New York Knicks power forward Charles Oakley at Saratoga Race Course. Choose between a ticketed meet-and-greet for up to 50 guests in the brand-new Paddock Suite, overlooking the Saratoga paddock, featuring food, drink (beer, wine and soft drinks) and conversation with the 19-year NBA veteran who suited up for a decade with the Knicks; or a ticketed meet-and-greet at the Jockey Silks Porch that includes a photo opportunity and signed headshot.
First Responders Day
Thursday, July 28
Saratoga Race Course will pay tribute to first responders with free grandstand admission (proper ID required). The afternoon will include a Police K-9 infield show, performances by the New York State Trooper Marching Band and demonstrations by several first responder agencies.
An Afternoon of Wine with Joseph Carr
Thursday, July 28
Founder of Josh Cellars wines and Capital District native Joseph Carr will host fans in the brand-new Paddock Suite on First Responders Day in honor of his father, who was a volunteer firefighter in Rensselaer County. The special event includes admission and ticket to the Paddock Suite, a meet-and-greet with Carr discussing Josh Cellars’ wines and wine pairings, food and beverage, and a bottle of Josh Cellars Reserve Lodi Cabernet Sauvignon which benefits firefighter charity organizations nationwide.
Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund Awareness Day
Saturday, July 30
Joining other racetracks across the country, Saratoga Race Course will host autograph signings and photo opportunities at the Jockey Silks Porch as part of the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) Day Across America. Suggested donations will benefit the PDJF.
Stars at the Spa Series Presents Teresa Giudice
Sunday, July 31
Fans will have the chance to meet The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice at Saratoga Race Course. Choose between a ticketed meet-and-greet for up to 50 guests in the brand-new Paddock Suite, overlooking the Saratoga paddock, featuring food, drink (beer, wine and soft drinks) and conversation with the TV personality; or a ticketed meet-and-greet at the Jockey Silks Porch that includes a photo opportunity and signed headshot. Tickets must be reserved in advance at NYRA.com. The “Stars at the Spa” series is presented by Saratoga Living.
Whitney Day
Saturday, August 6
The day’s card will be headlined by one of the meet’s signature races: the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney, which offers an automatic berth to the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Whitney Day will also include the Grade 1, $500,000 Longines Test and the Grade 1, $1 million Caesars Saratoga Derby Invitational, the second jewel of the Caesars Turf Triple series.
Additionally, Saratoga Race Course will honor local breast cancer survivors while supporting To Life!, a Capital Region non-profit organization which provides personalized breast cancer education and support services.
The Budweiser Clydesdales
Presented by Anheuser-Busch and Saratoga Eagles Sales and Service
Wednesday, August 10 - Sunday, August 14
The world-renowned Budweiser Clydesdales will make their return to Saratoga Race Course for the first time in approximately 15 years! Special appearances will be planned for several days throughout their much-anticipated visit. The Clydesdales were first introduced to the American public by Anheuser-Busch on April 7, 1933 to commemorate the repeal of Prohibition.
Ukrainian Independence Day
Wednesday, August 24
A series of special events and fundraising opportunities will take place at Saratoga Race Course to commemorate Ukraine Independence Day, which marks Ukraine’s declaration of independence from the former Soviet Union.
Military Appreciation Day
Thursday, August 25
Saratoga Race Course will pay tribute to active military members and veterans in appreciation of their sacrifice and service to our nation. The West Point Parachute Team, Color Guard and Band will perform. All veterans and active-duty military will be honored with a special ceremony in the Winner’s Circle and receive free grandstand admission with military ID.
Stewart’s Shops Day at the Races
Friday, August 26
NYRA will celebrate its longstanding partnership with Stewart’s Shops with a special ice cream-focused event. Racing fans can stop by nearly 180 Stewart’s Shops locations in the greater Capital Region to purchase their Saratoga Race Course grandstand season pass, now through Opening Weekend, or NYRA Bets Gift Cards, which are preloaded with $50 to bet online with NYRA Bets, now through Labor Day.
Runhappy Travers Day
Saturday, August 27
The 153rd running of the Grade 1, $1.25 million Runhappy Travers highlights an action-packed card that includes five other graded stakes worth a total of $4.1 million. The afternoon features the Grade 1, $750,000 Resorts World Casino Sword Dancer that includes an automatic berth to the Breeders’ Cup Turf; the Grade 1, $600,000 Personal Ensign; the Grade 1, $600,000 Forego; and the Grade 1, $500,000 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial. Rounding out the card is the Grade 2, $400,000 Ballston Spa.
Runhappy Travers Day will feature performances from the Siena College Band in the infield throughout the day.
Stars at the Spa Series Presents Bernie Williams
Sunday, September 4
Fans will have the chance to meet former New York Yankees All-Star centerfielder Bernie Williams at Saratoga Race Course. Choose between a ticketed meet-and-greet for up to 50 guests in the brand-new Paddock Suite, overlooking the Saratoga paddock, featuring food, drink (beer, wine and soft drinks) and conversation with the four-time World Series champion and jazz musician; or a ticketed meet-and-greet at the Jockey Silks Porch that includes a photo opportunity and signed headshot. Tickets must be reserved in advance at NYRA.com. The “Stars at the Spa” series is presented by Saratoga Living.
Closing Weekend
Saturday, September 3 - Monday, September 5
The 2022 summer meet will come to a close with the traditional final feature race, the Grade 1, $300,000 Hopeful for 2-year-olds, which affords racing fans a preview of potential standouts in next year’s Triple Crown series and Runhappy Travers.
Pick Six Picnic Paddock
The Pick Six Picnic Paddock, presented by Pick Six Vodka, includes more than 100 tables available for paid reservation with access to TVs and views of the paddock. All tables accommodate up to six guests. Full season and partial meet flex plans are now available. Call 844-NYRA-TIX to purchase.
1863 Club
Located at the Clubhouse turn, this climate-controlled three-story facility offers unparalleled fine dining, unique luxury experiences, and breathtaking track views.
New for 2022! Exclusive lounge seating on the trackside apron! The Chandon Garden Spritz Lounges include access to a shared buffet within The Rail, dedicated drink service, one bottle of Moët, and one bottle of Chandon Garden Spritz.
Paddock Suite
New for 2022! Perched above the Post Bar, the Paddock Suite features sweeping views of the paddock. Watch America’s finest thoroughbreds parade by on their way to the track before ducking back inside this climate-controlled space to grab a drink from the central feature bar and cheering on your paddock picks. Upscale food and beverage options are available, or indulge in Shake Shack and Blue Smoke located just below. Full and half space reservations are available. Individual tables are available for select dates in July.
Stella Artois Spa Verandas
A reimagining of one of Saratoga’s most popular spots, the Stella Artois Spa Verandas features six partially covered sections offering a modern and casual outdoor experience. Designed to accommodate up to 50 guests each, the Spa Verandas include comfortable lounge furniture, mounted televisions, betting machines and private access to the track apron for uninterrupted rail-side viewing as the thoroughbreds round the final turn and head for home. Each package comes with admission and programs. Food and beverage packages may be purchased separately. No outside food and beverage is permitted.
Miller Time Fourstardave Sports Bar
Escape the elements and stay within close proximity to the trackside apron! The Miller Time Fourstardave Sports Bar includes more than 80 tables available for paid reservation and a sports bar which features an extensive craft beer selection, popular food vendors, and 60 flat-screen televisions. Configurations include tables that accommodate two, four and six guests. Call 844-NYRA-TIX to purchase full season and partial meet flex plans.
The Cutwater Stretch
The Cutwater Stretch is an exclusive, private hospitality area features modern and upscale amenities not available anywhere else on track, including:
A brand-new bar featuring cocktails, beers and wines
Full-service kitchen and concession area featuring fresh, locally-sourced items including gourmet burgers, flatbread pizzas, NY-style deli sandwiches, salads, our famous Saratoga Chips and much more
Touchscreen tablets throughout for betting, ordering food & beverages, and watching live TV
Food and beverage delivered to your seats
Private restrooms and betting windows
All this, in a casual atmosphere with sweeping views of the final turn and entering the homestretch.
Premium Giveaways
Friday, July 29
Saratoga Picnic Blanket
Presented by Saratoga Casino Hotel
The first giveaway of the season is a great accessory to bring to the races: a Saratoga-branded picnic blanket. Presented by Saratoga Casino Hotel, the black and red plaid patterned blanket is 52” x 47” when unrolled and folds up for easy storage while traveling to and from the track.
Friday, August 19
Long-Sleeve T-Shirt Presented by FOX Sports
Fans can showcase their enthusiasm for Saratoga Race Course with the second giveaway of the season: a long-sleeve T-shirt! Presented by FOX Sports, this baseball-style tee will be available in adult M and XL.
Friday, September 2
Mini Umbrella Presented by NYRA Bets
Let your Saratoga pride shield you from inclement weather with the third and final giveaway of the season: a mini umbrella presented by NYRA Bets. The umbrella is red and white and features the traditional red Saratoga logo and black NYRA Bets logo.
On giveaway days, all fans in attendance will receive a free giveaway redemption coupon with paid admission, while supplies last. Season ticket and season pass holders are not guaranteed a giveaway. Fans must present a coupon at designated locations on track to receive the giveaway.
*Key: GI= Grade 1 Stakes | GII= Grade 2 Stakes | GIII= Grade 3 Stakes
