SARATOGA SPRINGS — The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will honor Capital Region frontline workers for their dedication and service to the community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic during Health Care Heroes and First Responders Day, presented by CDPHP, at the Saratoga Race Course on Friday, July 16.
The day will feature free grandstand admission for all health care professionals and first responders with proper identification. Gates open at 11 a.m.
NYRA will welcome doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and vaccine site workers from Capital Region hospitals and healthcare organizations to the winner’s circle for a race named in their honor. Local police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics will also receive special recognition in the winner’s circle with their own race.
The day will begin with a special performance of the National Anthem by Raymond Agnew, Vice President, Hospital & Community Engagement from Glens Falls Hospital. The afternoon will include a special appearance by the New York State Police Pipes and Drums who will perform on the track apron.
Among the Capital Region health care workers recognized on-track will be professionals from Albany Medical Center, Glens Falls Hospital, the New York State Department of Health, Saratoga Hospital, and The Wesley Community.
First responders represented will include officials from the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, Clifton Park EMS, New York State Police, Saratoga County Sheriff’s Department, Saratoga Springs City Fire Department, and Saratoga Springs Police Department.
On July 12, NYRA announced its Hometown Hero program, presented by CDPHP, a new initiative designed to honor local frontline and essential workers who went above and beyond during the pandemic, including health care workers, first responders, grocery associates, and public service, postal and transportation workers, amongst others.
Each Friday of the 2021 summer meet, beginning July 23, NYRA and CDPHP will recognize one Capital Region resident for their service to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each NYRA Hometown Hero, presented by CDPHP, will receive the opportunity to present the trophy in the winner’s circle during a race that afternoon.
Nominations for the NYRA Hometown Hero program, presented by CDPHP, may be submitted via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. through Aug. 15, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. Submissions should include contact information for both the nominee and nominator, as well as a brief description (250 words or less) of why the nominee should be recognized as a NYRA Hometown Hero.
For additional information, visit NYRA.com.
