The annual Open House will return to Saratoga Race Course, Sunday, July 20, as an early, unofficial “call to the post” for Capital Region families. Just three days before the gates swing open on the 140th racing season at the Spa, Open House will offer a full-day of family friendly activities for those looking to get a jump on the 2008 racing meet.
Presented by the New York Racing Association, the 28th annual Open House runs from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and will feature giant inflatables, carnival games, lively music, circus shows and an array of food and beverages -- all to benefit local charities. Admission is free.
The National Steeplechase Association will “jump start” this year’s event, presenting a total of five races - four jump races and a training flat race, all featuring Thoroughbreds prepping for one of the seven Steeplechases during the Saratoga meet; however, there is no pari-mutuel wagering on Open House day.
During the afternoon, the Islip Horsemen’s Association Long Island Drill Team will demonstrate their moves and skill as more than two dozen horses execute intricate pinwheels, circles, and V formations.
The backyard will play host to a variety of activities including pony rides, inflatables, face painting, caricatures and a petting zoo. Young racing fans can participate in the interactive Backyard Circus in the festival tent, or try their skills in the inflatable obstacle course, the Adrenaline Rush.
Captain Squeeze & The Zydeco Moshers, a strolling swing jazz band, will play jazz favorites in the backyard, while Mark Rabin performs cover songs underneath the bandstand from such renowned artists as Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Elvis Presley and The Beatles.
Open House will offer patrons a glimpse into the inner workings of the track with free backstretch tours. The tours will run every half hour beginning at 11 a.m. at the Clubhouse entrance.
The day will also feature handicapping seminars tailored to enhance the knowledge of both novices and experienced players.
Committed to supporting local community organizations, Saratoga’s Open House will benefit an array of local not-for-profit groups.
For example, visitors can have their photo taken and laminated on a 3”x 4” photo magnet, available for a minimal donation to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Upstate New York/Vermont Chapter.
Patrons can also choose from a variety of tasty treats. From hamburgers to fried dough, sausage and peppers to ice-cream sandwiches, Open House has something to suit everyone’s taste buds. All food and beverage proceeds benefit local charities and non-profit organizations.
Season passes for the upcoming 2008 Saratoga Race Course season will be available for purchase at the Grandstand Customer Service Center. The passes are $75 for clubhouse and $35 for grandstand. The passes are good for the entire 36-day Saratoga meet, including Travers Day, Saturday, August 23.
The 2008 Saratoga racing season opens on Wednesday, July 23, and runs daily, except Tuesdays, through Labor Day, September 1. Post time is 1 p.m., except for Travers Day (Saturday, August 23) when post time is Noon, and on Sunset Racing Days (Friday, July 25 and Friday, August 29) when post time is 2:45 p.m.
