Toys for Tots returns to Aqueduct Racetrack on Cigar Mile Day

by NYRA Press Office

Annual weekend of giving set for Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) is pleased to announce the return of its annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation weekend of giving at Aqueduct Racetrack on Cigar Mile Day, Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3.

A holiday tradition at Aqueduct, Toys for Tots will collect new, unwrapped toys, cash contributions, and checks made payable to Toys for Tots, with donation boxes located at the main Clubhouse entrance and the Turf and Field entrance.

"It's a privilege for the New York Racing Association to partner with the Marines Corps' Toys for Tots Foundation to brighten the holidays for so many children each year," said Lynn LaRocca, NYRA Senior Vice President and Chief Experience Officer. "Our fans and employees have generously supported Toys for Tots over the years, and we are pleased to encourage that giving spirit again in 2017." 

In addition to NYRA's contributions, Toys for Tots is supported by generous contributions from thoroughbred owner Harold Lerner, the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, trainer Gary Contessa, and thoroughbred owner Salvatore Sano.  

"Putting a smile on the face of a child who may not otherwise receive a gift this holiday season is a priceless feeling," said Harold Lerner. "I hope that these acts of kindness will inspire the children receiving the gifts to go on to do great things, knowing that there is a community that cares about them."

"The holidays are the perfect time to count our blessings and reach out to help those less fortunate than ourselves," said NYTHA President Rick Violette Jr. "New York's horsemen have long been supporters of the Marine Corps' Toys for Tots Foundation, and we are proud to do our part once again as we celebrate the 70th anniversary of this great initiative."

"Toys for Tots is not only a great way to give back this holiday season, but it is a great way to honor our military and the Marines who have been operating this great program for 70 years," said trainer Gary Contessa. "I am proud to have supported Toys for Tots for more than a decade and to support it again this year." 

On December 2 and Saturday, December 9, NYRA will be holding a Stocking Stuffer Sale of vintage giveaway items. A portion of the proceeds from the sale will be donated to Toys for Tots.