News

Apr 21, 2013 05:35 PM

Kauai Katie Wins Third Straight in Road Princess on Closing Day at Aqueduct

Heavily favored Kauai Katie led from start to finish for a seemingly effortless 3 ¼-length victory in Sunday’s $75,000 Road Princess overnight stakes, the closing day feature at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Apr 20, 2013 05:58 PM

Belmont Park Spring/Summer Meet Opens April 26; 145th Belmont Stakes Set for June 8

With world-class thoroughbred racing and a host of new activities and old favorites planned for the spring and summer, Belmont Park is the place to be starting opening day, Friday, April 26.

Apr 19, 2013 04:42 PM

Hall of Fame Trainer T.J. Kelly Dies at 93

Retired Hall of Fame trainer Thomas J. Kelly died Friday morning at St. Catherine’s West Rehabilitation Hospital in Hialeah, Fla., after a brief illness, according to his son, Timothy D. Kelly. He was 93.

Apr 19, 2013 04:25 PM

Aqueduct Racetrack Notes - Apr. 19, 2013

Kauai Katie returns to New York as the 1-9 morning-line favorite over four other 3-year-old fillies in Sunday’s $75,000 Road Princess overnight stakes, the featured race on closing day at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Apr 19, 2013 11:30 AM

NYRA Names Eric Wing Director of Communications & Media Relations

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has named Eric Wing Director of Communications & Media Relations. Wing, who has served as Senior Director of Media Relations at the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) since 1999, will oversee corporate communications and serve as company spokesperson for NYRA beginning May 15.

Apr 18, 2013 01:06 PM

$250,000 Bonus Offered to NY-bred Who Sweeps Big Apple Triple

A $250,000 bonus will be awarded to the connections of a horse who sweeps this year’s Big Apple Triple, a series of races at Belmont Park, Finger Lakes Racetrack, and Saratoga Race Course for New York-bred 3-year-olds.

Apr 13, 2013 05:31 PM

High-Five for Cluster of Stars in Distaff Handicap

After conceding the lead on the far turn, Cluster of Stars came back under jockey Junior Alvarado’s patient ride to win Aqueduct Racetrack’s Grade 2, $200,000 Distaff Handicap on Saturday and remain unbeaten in five starts.

Apr 11, 2013 06:22 PM

NYRA Board Approves New Tote Contractor in Fourth Meeting

During its fourth meeting on Thursday, The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Board of Directors authorized NYRA management to enter into a contract with AmTote International, Inc. to provide totalizator services at Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park,and Saratoga Race Course.

Apr 10, 2013 05:12 PM

Cluster of Stars vs. Spectacular Sky in Distaff Handicap

Cluster of Stars will put her unbeaten record on the line when she makes her graded stakes debut in Saturday’s Grade 2, $200,000 Distaff Handicap, a six-furlong race for fillies and mares that serves as the final graded stakes of the 2012-13 Aqueduct Racetrack meet.

Apr 10, 2013 02:46 PM

John Velazquez Recovering After Spill at Aqueduct

Jockeys’ Guild Chairman John Velazquez was released from North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, N.Y., on Sunday evening. On Monday, he saw his personal doctor, Dr. Stephen O’Brien.

Apr 10, 2013 12:38 PM

NYRA Board Meeting Notification for April 11, 2013

NYRA Board Meeting Notification for April 11, 2013 Meeting of the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Reorganization Board of Directors

Apr 08, 2013 11:00 AM

Velazquez Sustains Minor Fractures in Sunday Spill at Aqueduct

Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez sustained a slight fracture of his first rib on the right side and a small bone chip near his right wrist as the result of a spill in Sunday’s seventh race at Aqueduct Racetrack, according to his valet, Tony Millan.

Apr 07, 2013 03:05 PM

Aqueduct Racetrack Notes - Apr. 7, 2013

Undefeated Verrazano was a happy and hungry horse the morning after his gritty victory in the Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial, and is scheduled to depart next Sunday for Churchill Downs as the early favorite for the Kentucky Derby.

Apr 06, 2013 08:39 PM

Verrazano Remains Unbeaten with Hard-Fought Victory in Wood Memorial

Verrazano added a hard-fought victory in the Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial at Aqueduct Racetrack to extend his perfect record to 4-for-4 on Saturday, turning back previously undefeated Vyjack and then holding off a rousing late run from Normandy Invasion to win by three-quarters of a length.

Apr 06, 2013 08:02 PM

Swagger Jack Staves off Sahara Sky in Carter Surprise

Given a perfectly timed ride by Irad Ortiz, Jr., Swagger Jack reaped the benefits of a hot pace and got the jump on a fast-closing Sahara Sky to win the 113th running of the Grade 1, $400,000 Carter Handicap for older sprinters on Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Apr 06, 2013 07:56 PM

Declan’s Warrior Surges Late to Win Bay Shore

Patiently ridden by Jose Lezcano, Declan’s Warrior took advantage of a multi-horse scramble for the early lead and charged down the center of the track to overtake Clearly Now and upset the Grade 3, $250,000 Bay Shore by a head on Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Apr 06, 2013 05:54 PM

Close Hatches Turns Back Princess of Sylmar in Grade 2 Gazelle Thriller

With just two prior starts on her resume, a fast and determined Close Hatches proved she belongs among the leaders of the 3-year-old filly division Saturday, turning back a strong challenge by Princess of Sylmar to win the 118th running of the Grade 2, $250,000 Gazelle at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Apr 06, 2013 04:37 PM

Withgreatpleasure Cuts the Corner and Rolls to Victory in Grade 2 Ruffian

Withgreatpleasure had run in 12 straight stakes races with only one victory before dropping down to a $35,000 handicap on March 19 at Charles Town and winning by 2 ½ lengths.

Apr 06, 2013 12:55 PM

Jockey Tomas Released from Jamaica Hospital with Fractured Nose

Apprentice jockey Pierre Tomas was discharged from Jamaica Hospital late Friday evening after fracturing his nose in a spill during the nightcap at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Apr 05, 2013 05:23 PM

Fun Facts About the Field for the Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial

The field is set for Saturday’s 89th running of the Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial at Aqueduct Racetrack, and in the spirit of fun, we bring you some facts about the 10 starters you might not find in their past performances.

Apr 05, 2013 04:53 PM

Aqueduct Racetrack Notes - Apr .5, 2013

Heading into Saturday’s Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial, trainer Chad Brown would just like to see Normandy Invasion catch a little good fortune.

Apr 04, 2013 05:12 PM

Maleeh Defends Home Court vs. Clearly Now, Honorable Dillon in Bay Shore

Unbeaten Maleeh will face his toughest test to date when he takes on graded stakes winners Clearly Now and Honorable Dillon in Saturday’s Grade 3, $250,000 Bay Shore on Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Apr 04, 2013 02:34 PM

Funnys Approval No Laughing Matter in G2 Ruffian

After homebred Funnys Approval upset the Grade 2 Barbara Fritchie Handicap at odds of 21-1 on February 16 at Laurel Park, owner Bobby Rankin promised to buy his trainer Jose Lopez a new truck.

Apr 04, 2013 01:57 PM

Chrisandthecapper, Named for Nets Broadcast Team, Taking a Shot at Wood Memorial

Chris Carrino and Tim Capstraw are best known as the radio broadcast team of the Brooklyn Nets, but their names could become part of Wood Memorial history if their namesake, Chrisandthecapper, were to upset New York’s top prep race for the Kentucky Derby.

Apr 03, 2013 07:03 PM

Princess of Sylmar Seeks Fifth Straight Win in G2 Gazelle

Save for a fourth-place finish in her debut in a sprint race against Pennsylvania-bred maidens last fall, King of Prussia Stable’s Princess of Sylmar has been untouchable. In four subsequent starts, all victories, the daughter of Majestic Warrior has crossed the finish line a minimum of 5 ¼ lengths in front of her next closest opponent and a maximum of 19 lengths.

Apr 03, 2013 06:50 PM

Discreet Dancer Ventures Away from Gulfstream to Compete in Carter Handicap

The Grade 1, $400,000 Carter Handicap at Aqueduct Racetrack will serve as the New York debut for Discreet Dancer, who has won four of five career starts, all at Gulfstream Park.

Apr 03, 2013 04:35 PM

Undefeated Verrazano and Vyjack Clash in Wood Memorial

A pair of undefeated Kentucky Derby contenders will put their perfect records on the line Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack as they head a field of 10 classic-minded 3-year-olds in the 89th running of the Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial.

Apr 03, 2013 10:12 AM

NYRA & NYS Gaming Commission Announce Enhanced Security Measures for Wood Memorial Participants

Out-of-competition testing & 24-hour surveillance of horses slated to race will ensure utmost integrity for Saturday’s Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Mar 31, 2013 01:36 PM

Undefeated Verrazano turns in final breeze for Wood

Undefeated Verrazano worked five furlongs in 1:01.17 Sunday morning at Palm Meadows Training Center in Florida, completing his major preparations for an expected start in Saturday’s Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Mar 30, 2013 05:41 PM

Sunny Desert Takes a Bow in Broadway

Sunny Desert returned to New York-bred company and the winner’s circle Saturday afternoon at Aqueduct Racetrack, sweeping to the lead in midstretch and on to a three-length victory in the $75,000 Broadway for fillies and mares.

Mar 30, 2013 02:29 PM

Aqueduct Racetrack Notes - Mar. 30, 2013

Vyjack ready for G1 Wood Memorial following six-furlong breeze at Aqueduct Wood candidate Elnaawi works five furlongs in 59.80 at Belmont Mr Palmer breezes a half mile in 48.93 for Wood West Hills Giant to skip Wood Busy day for other Wood Day hopefuls

Mar 28, 2013 02:16 PM

Aqueduct Racetrack Notes - Mar. 28, 2013

Undefeated 3-year-olds Verrazano and Vyjack are expected to head the field for the 89th running of the Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial on April 6, Aqueduct Racetrack’s final major prep for the May 4 Kentucky Derby.

Mar 27, 2013 04:30 PM

Sunny Desert Hoping for a Curtain Call in Broadway

Sunny Desert, whose six-race winning streak ended with a third-place finish in the Grade 2 Top Flight Handicap, looks to start anew Saturday when she faces four other New York-bred fillies and mares in the $75,000 Broadway at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Mar 26, 2013 04:44 PM

Saratoga 150 and NYRA Honor 30 Thoroughbreds in Inaugural “Hoofprints Walk of Fame” at Saratoga Race Course

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) and the Saratoga 150 Committee today announced a new attraction designed to pay homage to the most accomplished thoroughbreds to compete at Saratoga Race Course during its 150-year history.

Mar 25, 2013 03:47 PM

Dominguez to Continue Therapy Following MRI

Following an appointment with his neurosurgeon on March 25, jockey Ramon Dominguez said he will continue physical and cognitive therapy for a fractured skull sustained in a spill at Aqueduct Racetrack on January 18.

Mar 23, 2013 06:17 PM

Last Gunfighter Shoots through Opening to Win Excelsior

Last Gunfighter continued his upward ascent with a sharp-looking score on Saturday in his graded stakes debut, Aqueduct Racetrack’s Grade 3, $150,000 Excelsior for 3-year-olds and up.

Mar 23, 2013 11:20 AM

Dubai World Cup Simulcast Available at Aqueduct, Belmont Café & NYRA Rewards

A live simulcast of next Saturday’s Group 1, $10 million Dubai World Cup and seven additional stakes at Meydan Racecourse will be presented at Aqueduct Racetrack and the Belmont Café simulcast center.

Mar 22, 2013 03:16 PM

NYRA Unveils 2013 Belmont Stakes Logo

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has unveiled the logo for the 145th running of the Belmont Stakes, the 1½-mile “Test of the Champion,” the longest and final leg of thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown for 3-year-olds.

Mar 22, 2013 01:52 PM

Aqueduct Racetrack Notes - Mar. 22, 2013

Vyjack, winner of the Grade 3 Gotham on March 2, continued his preparations for the Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial on April 6 by breezing five furlongs in 59.07 seconds over Aqueduct’s inner track on Friday, accompanied by 7-year-old Head Heart Hoof.

Mar 22, 2013 01:20 PM

NYRA Equine Safety Committee Meeting Notification for April 11, 2013

Meeting of the Equine Safety Committee of the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Reorganization Board of Directors NYRA Equine Safety Committee Meeting Notification for April 11, 2013

Mar 20, 2013 05:17 PM

Heart Butte Ready for Excelsior off Sprint Prep

Heart Butte, ninth in the Grade 3, six-furlong Tom Fool in his first start in 13 months, will return to his preferred game when he stretches out in distance for the Grade 3, $150,000 Excelsior at 1 1/8 miles on Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Mar 16, 2013 05:37 PM

Elghayoor Clicks in Cicada

Elghayoor continued her upward ascent Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack, collaring heavily favored Highestmaintenance in deep stretch to post a half-length victory in the $100,000 Cicada, her second straight stakes win.

Mar 13, 2013 04:38 PM

Sophomore Fillies Look to Create a Buzz in Cicada

Stablemates Elghayoor and Railtown Girl, the 1-2 finishers in last month’s Dearly Precious, return Saturday to take on five other 3-year-old fillies in Saturday’s 21st running of the $100,000 Cicada at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Mar 10, 2013 05:26 PM

Dominguez Makes First Visit to Aqueduct Following Accident, Could Start Exercising Horses Following March 25 Doctor’s Appointment

Ramon Dominguez visited Aqueduct Racetrack on Sunday for the first time since being injured in a spill at the track on January 18.

Mar 09, 2013 06:17 PM

Maleeh Makes Another Winning Move in Capossela

Lightly raced Maleeh ran like a seasoned professional in his second start, saving ground on the turn and angling off the rail to launch his stretch run en route to a 2 ¾-length win in Saturday’s $100,000 Fred “Cappy” Capossela, a six-furlong sprint for 3-year-olds at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Mar 08, 2013 03:35 PM

NYRA Public Hearings and Communications Committee Meeting Notification for March 14, 2013

Meeting of the Public Hearings and Communications Committee of the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Reorganization Board of Directors Thursday, March 14, 2013.

Mar 08, 2013 12:44 PM

NYRA Releases ‘John Henry Collection’ on YouTube

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has announced the release of “The John Henry Collection” on its YouTube channel, allowing racing fans to watch and relive all 20 of the gelding’s starts at Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park, and Saratoga Race Course.

Mar 08, 2013 06:59 AM

Live Racing at Aqueduct Canceled Friday; Simulcasting Available

Due to snow and rain, The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has canceled live racing at Aqueduct Racetrack on Friday, March 8.

Mar 06, 2013 03:20 PM

Whiskey Romeo to Tango with Clawback in Capossela

Whiskey Romeo, unbeaten in three starts as a 2-year-old, will make his 3-year-old debut in Saturday’s $100,000 Fred “Cappy” Capossela at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Mar 03, 2013 02:14 PM

Aqueduct Racetrack Notes - March 3, 2013

Rudy Rodriguez usually avoids looking too far into the future, but he couldn’t help but express cautious optimism the morning after he picked up his biggest victory as a trainer when Vyjack came from off the pace to win Aqueduct Racetrack’s Grade 3 Gotham by 2 ¼ lengths.

Mar 02, 2013 07:00 PM

Undefeated Vyjack Storms to Victory in G3 Gotham

Undefeated Vyjack took a big step along New York’s road to the Kentucky Derby as he stormed through the stretch to win the Grade 3, $400,000 Gotham on Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack by 2 ¼ lengths over West Hills Giant.

Mar 02, 2013 06:40 PM

Comma to the Top Puts Exclamation Point on Tom Fool

Comma to the Top, making his second start in the span of a week, set the pace, lost the lead late, came back along the inside, and got a favorable bob on the wire to win the Grade 3, $200,000 Tom Fool Handicap by a nose on Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Mar 02, 2013 05:38 PM

Summer Applause Gets Rave Reviews in G2 Top Flight

Favored Summer Applause grabbed the lead in midstretch and held on for a 2 ¾-length victory over Twice the Lady in Saturday’s 73rd running of the Grade 2, $200,000 Top Flight Handicap at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Mar 01, 2013 05:25 PM

Gotham Stakes Day to Include $113,159 Pick 6 Carryover

The Gotham Stakes Day card at Aqueduct Racetrack became even more enticing when Shaunna Alexandra posted a 31-1 upset in Friday’s finale, triggering a two-day Pick 6 carryover of $113,159.

Mar 01, 2013 02:53 PM

NYRA Network Moving to Time Warner Ch. 1994 on March 6

The NYRA Network, which features live coverage from Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course as well as simulcasting from around the country, will move to Channel 1994 from its current position on Channel 71 on Time Warner Cable beginning March 6.

Mar 01, 2013 02:46 PM

Queens Natives Saul and Max Kupferberg Hoping for Victory in Big A’s Top Flight

For more than 20 years, owners Saul and Max Kupferberg have enjoyed modest success in New York with a small stable comprised mostly of claimers. On Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack, the father and son are hoping Sunny Desert, a filly they claimed for $35,000 in December, 2011, will bring them their first graded stakes score when she runs in the Grade 2, $200,000 Top Flight Handicap.

Mar 01, 2013 12:36 PM

NYRA to Offer $100k 2YO Graded Stakes Bonus Again in 2013

For the second straight year, The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will offer a $100,000 bonus to the connections of any juvenile who breaks his or her maiden during the Aqueduct Racetrack winter/spring or Belmont Park spring/summer meets and goes on to win a graded stakes at Saratoga Race Course, Belmont, or Aqueduct in 2013.

Feb 28, 2013 01:47 PM

St Liams Halo Running for Veterans in Tom Fool Handicap

One year ago, thoroughbred owner Chip McEwen was on a flight on which one of the passengers was a veteran with post-traumatic stress disorder. “He had his mental faculties but no longer had the necessary motor skills as the result of an [improvised explosive device],” recalled McEwen.

Feb 27, 2013 06:16 PM

NYRA Board Focuses On CEO Search In Third Meeting

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Board of Directors focused on the search for a new Chief Executive Officer on Wednesday during its third meeting, and also announced the formation of a task force to articulate a long-term vision for the organization.

Feb 27, 2013 04:50 PM

Overanalyze, Vyjack Head Dozen Sophomores In Gotham

A dozen 3-year-olds, headed by Mike Repole’s dual graded stakes winning Overanalyze and the undefeated Vyjack, were entered for Saturday’s 60th running of the Grade 3, $400,000 Gotham at Aqueduct Racetrack, a major prep for the April 6 Wood Memorial and the Kentucky Derby one month later.

Feb 27, 2013 04:41 PM

Summer Applause Hopes To Take A Bow After Top Flight

Summer Applause, who knocked off subsequent Kentucky Oaks winner Believe You Can last winter in the Rachel Alexandra Stakes at the Fair Grounds, returns to action Saturday as the 5-2 morning-line favorite in the 73rd running of the Grade 2, $200,000 Top Flight Handicap at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Feb 27, 2013 04:24 PM

Toboggan Top Two Head Heart Hoof, Johannesburg Smile Take on Eight Others in Tom Fool

In his 50th career start, Head Heart Hoof became a graded stakes winner when he won the Grade 3 Toboggan on February 2 at Aqueduct Racetrack. On Saturday, the 7-year-old gelding will attempt to double his graded stakes tally when he faces Toboggan runner-up Johannesburg Smile and a contentious group of new shooters in the 38th edition of the Big A’s Grade 3, $200,000 Tom Fool Handicap

Feb 24, 2013 02:35 PM

Aqueduct Racetrack Notes - Feb. 24, 2013

Trainer Rudy Rodriguez was counting his blessings on Sunday, six days in advance of Vyjack’s expected start in the Grade 3, $400,000 Gotham, a 1 1/16-mile race for 3-year-olds and Aqueduct Racetrack’s primary prep race for the Grade 1, $1 million Wood Memorial on April 6

Feb 18, 2013 03:24 PM

Sensational Saginaw Sizzles In Hollie Hughes

Saginaw, a 10-time winner in 2012, launched his 2013 campaign in triumphant fashion, finishing with a flurry to defeat Readytodefer by a head in the $75,000 Hollie Hughes on Monday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Feb 18, 2013 11:37 AM

NYRA Equine Safety Committee Meeting Notification February 27, 2013

Meeting of the Equine Safety Committee of the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Reorganization Board of Directors February 27, 2013 at 1:00 PM.

Feb 17, 2013 05:47 PM

Elghayoor Scores Sweet Victory In Dearly Precious; Double Pick 6 Carryover of $109,674 Into Monday’s Card

Elghayoor broke her maiden in high style Sunday afternoon at Aqueduct Racetrack, taking the lead in midstretch and holding off her fast-closing stablemate Railtown Girl to win the 19th running of the $75,000 Dearly Precious by a half-length.

Feb 17, 2013 04:51 PM

Bronx Native Galluscio Wins 1000th Race As Trainer

Trainer Dominic Galluscio posted career victory No. 1,000 on Sunday when Discreet Force debuted a neck winner in Aqueduct Racetrack’s seventh race.

Feb 15, 2013 03:41 PM

Win Machine Saginaw To Begin 2013 Campaign In Hollie Hughes

Saginaw, who won 10 of 14 starts in 2012, will launch his 2013 campaign in Monday’s $75,000 Hollie Hughes at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Feb 15, 2013 12:58 PM

Dominguez Discusses Rehabilitation, Desire To Return To Racing

Jockey Ramon Dominguez, injured in a spill at Aqueduct Racetrack on January 18, discussed his rehabilitation and desire to resume his career in a February 14 interview with NYRA television analyst and former jockey Richard Migliore.

Feb 15, 2013 11:07 AM

NYRA Board Meeting Notification for February 27, 2013

Meeting of the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Reorganization Board of Directors February 27, 2013 at 3:30 PM

Feb 14, 2013 04:26 PM

McLaughlin Has Promising Duo For Dearly Precious

A half-dozen 3-year-old fillies will vie for their first stakes win when they assemble Sunday afternoon at Aqueduct Racetrack for the $75,000 Dearly Precious.

Feb 14, 2013 02:24 AM

NYRA Launches Redesigned Website

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced a complete redesign of its website, NYRA.com. The new NYRA.com presents a wealth of information via a clean, organized layout with a variety of user-friendly features.

Feb 13, 2013 01:19 PM

Cornell And NYRA Launch Search For New York Equine Veterinary Medical Director

The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) announced today the formation of a search committee for Equine Veterinary Medical Director (EVMD), a position that will be established outside of NYRA reporting to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Feb 08, 2013 02:13 PM

NYRA Establishes Equine Safety Review Board

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has formally established an Equine Safety Review Board to review and assess fatal equine racing and training injuries at the organization’s three racetracks. The creation of an Equine Safety Review Board was among the key recommendations set forth by the New York Task Force on Racehorse Health and Safety in its final report issued September 28.

Feb 07, 2013 05:46 PM

Trainer Gary Contessa Wins 2000th Race

Trainer Gary Contessa won his 2,000th race when he saddled Al’s Rosie to victory in the seventh race on Thursday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Feb 06, 2013 05:43 PM

Revolutionary Doesn’t ‘Wither’ Under Pressure; Head Heart Hoof Holds Off Johannesburg Smile In Toboggan

Revolutionary threaded his way through the field and finished with flourish to defeat Escapefromreality by a neck in the 133rd running of the Grade 3, $200,000 Withers on Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Feb 04, 2013 03:32 PM

Dominguez Enters Rehabilitation Program

Jockey Ramon Dominguez has been transferred from New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center to Burke Rehabilitation Hospital in White Plains, NY, and has begun inpatient therapy for a skull fracture sustained in a January 18 spill at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Feb 03, 2013 04:34 PM

Aqueduct Racetrack Notes - Feb. 3, 2013

* Withers hero Revolutionary, Busher victress Princess of Sylmar one step closer to spring classics * Withers runner-up to target G3 Gotham, G1 Wood Memorial * Toboggan winner Head Heart Hoof possible for G3 Tom Fool * Cluster of Stars exits Correction victory in good order * Field coming together for Dearly Precious

Feb 02, 2013 02:30 PM

Princess of Sylmar Reigns In Busher; Cluster of Stars Sparkles In Close Correction

Princess of Sylmar made in four in a row as she pulled clear to a seven-length victory in the $100,000 Busher while undefeated Cluster of Stars earned her first stakes win with a hard-fought decision over favored Nicole H in the $100,000 Correction Saturday afternoon at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Feb 01, 2013 05:00 PM

Apprentice Jockey Pierre Tomas Wins First North American Race

Apprentice jockey Pierre Tomas won his first race in North America on Friday when he rode Victorious Leader to a 41-1 upset in the seventh race at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Jan 31, 2013 02:30 PM

Aqueduct Winter/Spring Meet Calendar Amended To 4-Day Race Week

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will drop six scheduled live race days from the Aqueduct winter/spring meet calendar, a decision approved by the New York State Racing and Wagering Board Thursday afternoon.

Jan 26, 2013 05:16 PM

Twice The Lady Pulls No Punches In Affectionately

Twice the Lady, runner-up in three previous appearances at Aqueduct Racetrack, broke through and scored her first stakes victory Saturday afternoon, pulling away to a two-length triumph over Withgreatpleasure in the 38th running of the $75,000 Affectionately.

Jan 25, 2013 02:16 PM

NYRA Board Approves Three-Year Work Plan, Focuses on Equine Safety, Commences Formal Search for CEO in Second Meeting

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Board of Directors approved its three-year work plan, focused on equine safety, and formally began its search for a new President and CEO for the organization during its second meeting on Friday.

Jan 22, 2013 03:47 PM

Dominguez Continues to Improve; Moved to New York-Presbyterian Hospital

Ramon Dominguez, who was diagnosed with a skull fracture as a result of a spill on Friday at Aqueduct Racetrack, continues to improve and was transferred today (January 22) from Jamaica Hospital in Queens to New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center on Manhattan’s East Side where he is currently undergoing further evaluation.

Jan 21, 2013 02:11 PM

Clawback Digs Down To Take Jimmy Winkfield; Ortiz Brothers Combine For Six Wins

Five weeks after breaking his maiden, Clawback opened his 3-year-old campaign with a stakes victory, coming from just off the pace and going to a five-length score in the $75,000 Jimmy Winkfield on Monday afternoon at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Jan 21, 2013 01:02 PM

NYRA Wins 4th Straight Conny Award

For the fourth straight year, The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has received American Turf Monthly magazine’s Conny Award for “Top On-Track Tournament.”

Jan 20, 2013 06:03 PM

Ortiz Brothers Win First 7 Races On Sunday

Apprentice jockey Jose Ortiz won the first three races and Irad Ortiz, Jr. took races 4-7 to give the Ortiz brothers a sweep of the first seven races on Sunday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Jan 20, 2013 01:50 PM

Many Eclipses Winners Took Road Through New York

Wise Dan, Shanghai Bobby, Questing, Ramon Dominguez and Dale Romans were just some of the human and equine stars whose achievements on The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) circuit in 2012 led to their Eclipse Awards Saturday night.

Jan 19, 2013 05:56 PM

Last Gunfighter Prevails In Three Way Evening Attire Duel

Last Gunfighter survived a showdown with Isn’t He Perfect and Arlo to win Saturday’s $75,000 Evening Attire at Aqueduct Racetrack and remain unbeaten in four starts since being transferred to trainer Chad Brown.

Jan 18, 2013 01:08 PM

NYRA’S 2012 Handle Gains Greatly Outpace Industry

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) posted across-the-board wagering gains in 2012, finishing the year with notable increases in all handle categories and far exceeding industry growth.

Jan 17, 2013 01:11 PM

NYRA Establishes New Equine Veterinary Medical Director

New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Chair David Skorton and Anthony Bonomo, Chair of NYRA’s Equine Health and Safety Committee, announced today the immediate establishment of the position of Equine Veterinary Medical Director.

Jan 11, 2013 01:17 PM

NYRA Board Meeting Notification for January 25, 2013

*** PUBLIC NOTICE AND MEDIA ADVISORY *** WHAT: Meeting of the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Reorganization Board of Directors WHEN: January 25, 2013 at 3:00 PM WHERE: Empire State Development Corporation 37th Floor Conference Room 633 Third Avenue New York, New York 10017

Dec 29, 2012 06:23 PM

Nicole H Aims For Interborough Threepeat

At the age of 6, Nicole H will try to become the first mare to post three consecutive victories in the $75,000 Interborough Handicap when she faces seven other fillies and mares in the six-furlong race on New Year’s Day at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Dec 29, 2012 02:15 PM

NYRA’s The National Racing Report to Air on HRTV

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) and HRTV, The Network for Horse Sports, today announced a broadcast agreement whereby NYRA’s The National Racing Report will air on HRTV, and The NYRA Network will show HRTV’s The Edge.

Dec 27, 2012 02:20 PM

Dominguez, Studart To Participate On 2013 MDA Muscle Team

Jockeys Ramon Dominguez and Maylan Studart will be among the Metro-New York athletes participating on the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s (MDA) 2013 Muscle Team for the 16th Annual Muscle Team® Gala & Benefit Auction scheduled for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, January 8 at Chelsea Piers in Manhattan.

Dec 26, 2012 06:08 PM

Saratoga Snacks Scores First Stakes Win in Alex M. Robb

Favored Saratoga Snacks scored his first stakes victory Wednesday at Aqueduct Racetrack, leading every step to beat Socialsaul by a length in the $75,000 Alex M. Robb for New York-breds.

Dec 15, 2012 06:42 PM

Saginaw Scores 10th Win of 2012 In Gravesend

Saginaw reaffirmed his status as the winningest horse in New York this year on Saturday afternoon at Aqueduct Racetrack, outdueling Royal Currier through the stretch to take the 54th running of the Gravesend Handicap and notch his 10th victory of 2012.

NYRA to Offer New Year’s Day Calendar Promotion at Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Café

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will offer 2013 calendars for $2 on New Year’s Day at Aqueduct Racetrack and the Belmont Café.

Dec 12, 2012 06:01 PM

NYRA Reorganization Board Holds Inaugural Meeting

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Reorganization Board of Directors held its inaugural meeting in Manhattan today, officially ushering in a new era of leadership, accountability and transparency for the operator of three of New York’s Thoroughbred racetracks.

Dec 12, 2012 09:56 AM

NYRA Announces 2013 Stakes Through Belmont Spring/Summer Meet

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Reorganization Board has approved and released the stakes schedules for Aqueduct Racetrack’s 2013 winter/spring meet and Belmont Park’s 2013 spring/summer meet, with the anticipated calendar for the remainder of the year released pending board approval.

Dec 09, 2012 06:31 PM

‘Bert’ Bests ‘llama’ in Damon Runyon; ‘Kelli’ Easily Wins East View

Smooth Bert made a late charge to defeat Notacatbutallama in the $80,000 Damon Runyon, and Kelli Got Frosty proved much the best in the $80,000 East View on Sunday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Dec 09, 2012 05:52 PM

Dominguez, Jacobson, Drawing Away Take Aqueduct Fall Meet Titles

Ramon Dominguez and David Jacobson continued their strong 2012 seasons by respectively winning the Aqueduct Racetrack fall meet jockey and trainer titles.

Nov 24, 2012 06:33 PM

Unlimited Budget, Overanalyze Sweep Big A’s Juvenile Stakes for Repole, Pletcher

An extraordinary afternoon at Aqueduct Racetrack for owner Mike Repole and trainer Todd Pletcher began when Unlimited Budget wired the field to win the Grade 2, $250,000 Demoiselle and Overanalyze nosed out Normandy Invasion in the Grade 2, $250,000 Remsen on Saturday.

Nov 24, 2012 06:20 PM

Dance Card Waltzes To Victory In Grade 1 Gazelle; Dominguez Wins Five On Heineken Holidayfest Card

Favored Dance Card lived up to her billing and won the first Grade 1 race of her young career, scoring gate-to-wire in the 117th running of the $350,000 Gazelle for 3-year-old fillies at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Nov 24, 2012 05:44 PM

Stay Thirsty Concludes Most Interesting Career With Gritty Cigar Mile Win

Stay Thirsty made the most of his final career start, surging late to defeat favored filly Groupie Doll by a nose and win the 24th edition of the Grade 1, $350,000 Cigar Mile Handicap on Saturday at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Nov 24, 2012 09:42 AM

Jersey Town Scratched From Cigar Mile, Retired

Jersey Town has been retired after being scratched from today’s Grade 1, $350,000 Cigar Mile Handicap with a fever, according to trainer Barclay Tagg.

Nov 23, 2012 05:44 PM

Jockey Irad Ortiz, Jr. Bruises Back in Friday Fall at Aqueduct

Jockey Irad Ortiz, Jr., who fell from his mount during Friday’s eighth race at Aqueduct, sustained a bruised lower back and will remain at Jamaica Hospital overnight for observation. Diagnostic tests showed no fractures.

Nov 23, 2012 10:53 AM

Handle Up At Belmont Fall Meet

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) posted an 11.5 percent gain in total handle during the recently concluded Belmont Park fall meet, with additional increases in NYRA Rewards account wagering and wagering on NYRA races.

Nov 23, 2012 05:47 AM

Nefertini The Toast Of Go For Wand; $109K Pick 6 Carryover Into Cigar Mile Day

Nefertini prevailed at 9-1 in the Grade 2, $200,000 Go for Wand Handicap on Friday at Aqueduct Racetrack, helping set up a $109,248 Pick 6 carryover into Saturday’s Heineken Holidayfest card

Nov 22, 2012 04:55 AM

Caixa Eletronica Ko’s Foes In G3 Fall Highweight

Caixa Eletronica pounced on pace-setting favorite This Ones for Phil in the stretch and went on to a four-length victory in Thursday’s Grade 3, $150,000 Fall Highweight Handicap, Aqueduct Racetrack’s traditional Thanksgiving Day feature.

Nov 18, 2012 06:02 AM

Edmund Teicht Captures Aqueduct Handicapping Challenge

Edmund Teicht of Englewood Cliffs, N.J. topped 223 other players and took home the $37,500 first prize in the 2012 Fall Handicapping Challenge this weekend at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Nov 04, 2012 09:55 AM

New York Was Path To Victory For Many In Breeders’ Cup

New York was the steppingstone to Breeders’ Cup victory for an elite group of thoroughbreds including Classic winner Fort Larned

The New York Racing Association

Racing moves to the Main Track on Wednesday, March 27.