THAT’S A WRAP THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

Labor Day concluded a successful 2024 racing season for the New York Racing Association.  Good weather and good racing combined for a strong finish and the meet had strong numbers in both live attendance and all sources betting handle.

Rather than a formal column it has been my practice to fill the wrap up column with various observations and musings about the concluded season. 

– The improved safety protocols resulted in a safer meet for athletes – human and equine. Kudos.

– This current jockey colony is very strong with riders making a difference in almost every race.

– Irad Ortiz, Jr.  won the riding title with most wins while Flavien Prat dominated the stakes races, but it was Dylan Davis who had a breakout meet with several long and medium-priced horses winning under his direction. Katie Davis again won in number of smiles and pictures taken with fans.  

– There were a shocking number of races where the winner was permitted to run unimpeded up the rail to victory. This was repeated often on the main and grass courses. In a less genteel past that would not have been permitted even once, let alone numerous times. In years gone by that type of move would have been forcefully stymied – either on the track or in the jock’s room.

– The trend of jockeys congratulating each other immediately past the wire is a bad look and should be discouraged in all but the biggest races or significant wins.

– This year’s innovation of canceling some races outright due to weather and postponing. others were common-sense solutions to the decimation of grass fields when the rains come. They should be employed liberally in years to come. 

– The New York Racing Association employees that deal with the public were pleasant, competent and friendly. They seemed to enjoy the scene, the fans and their jobs. It makes a difference – and is appreciated.

– The dedication of all vendor space in the backyard close to the clubhouse at the bottom of the escalator to all alcohol rather than food is something that should be rethought.

– Blocking off most of the paddock bar that faces the actual paddock for high rollers and most of the porch area for those reserving tables should be ended. It breaks up the flow of the day and further stratifies a crowd that doesn’t need to be further stratified. 

– The age-old show business axiom that says “always leave them wanting more” was violated on many days this year.  While the expanded number of races on weekend days makes financial sense, there is a limit – and running 12, 13, or 14 races a day should be done sparingly, if at all.

– The proposal to start next year’s meet on July 3rd is a good one.

– Mythical bankrolls of any kind are a bad idea. They are not entertaining. They are frustrating and often lead to ridicule of those who participate in them. It’s an idea that has been tried repeatedly and (much like the dreaded jockey cam) should be discarded.

– Linda Rice once again did more with less than any trainer. Her consistency with claiming and lower priced allowance stock is remarkable – as is her willingness to enter horses as Main Track Only entrants.

– Had I remined a mutuel clerk I would now be number one in seniority in the union – that honor goes to my friend Willie Zammitto. Congrats.

Goodbyes

The final week of the Saratoga meet was filled with goodbyes and well wishes among the racing world, its fans and visitors. It is oft said that parting is sweet sorrow but the timeless nature of racing in general, and Saratoga in particular, makes the saying “till we meet again” particularly apropos. 

Personal

It has been my great pleasure and honor to write this weekly column. I have tried to capture accurately and honestly what the Saratoga Race Course scene means to its participants and fans. It is mostly about friends – old ones, new ones and those that are yet to be made.

I appreciate the many kind words I have received and value additional input. 

I may be reached at wgotimer@verizon.net.