SARATOGA THOROUGHBRED

Union Avenue
Saratoga Springs, New York 12866
(718) 641-4700
http://www.nyra.com/index_saratoga.html

Saratoga Racing Dates
July 25 – September 3

Racetrack Information
Main track (dirt): 1 1/8 mile, oval
Length of stretch from last turn to finish line: 1,144 feet
Width of stretch: 80 feet
Turf: 7 1/2 furlongs, oval, inside main track
Width of stretch: 26 feet
Outer "Melon" turf: 7/8 mile

Track History and Fun Facts: Since 1864 the track has been the site of the Travers Stakes, the oldest major Thoroughbred horse race in the United States, which is the main draw of the annual summer race meeting at Saratoga. The Saratoga meet originally consisted of only four weeks but was subsequently lengthened to five weeks, and today a six-week meeting is observed, with Labor Day now being the last day of racing.

When you enter the Saratoga Racetrack, patrons are greeted with live music and vendors selling framed pictures of horses, jockeys and the racetrack. Minutes before the races start, you can view and analyze each horse as they strut in their stable with their trainers. Every Sunday, Saratoga gives out free merchandise to anyone who purchased a $5 admission fee. Items range from horse-handled umbrellas, tee shirts, painted steins and fleece blankets.