New York Racing Association to host handicapping tournament for College & Alumni Day at Saratoga Race Course

by Pat McKenna and Mark Bardack

The New York Racing Association, Inc. will host the first-ever College & Alumni Day Handicapping Tournament during the 2017 summer season at Saratoga Race Course on Friday, July 28. 

College students and alumni will be invited to test their handicapping skills in a live money tournament for the opportunity to win up to a $5,000 scholarship for their alma mater from the New York Racing Association. 

Groups of 10 or more who register to participate in the College & Alumni Handicapping Tournament will receive a complimentary $30 wagering card. The wagering card will be utilized by the group to place five $2 win/place/show bets on one horse in five different races on the day's card. 

The group with the most money remaining on its wagering card at the conclusion of the day's racing schedule will receive a $5,000 scholarship for its alma mater, courtesy of the New York Racing Association. The second and third place groups will receive $2,500 and $1,000 scholarships, respectively.  All other participating groups will receive their day's winnings in the form of a donation to their alumni associations.

"In the spirit of friendly collegiate rivalry, we're excited to welcome students and alumni to participate in our first handicapping tournament of this kind at Saratoga Race Course. Not only does the event provide an outlet for friends to come together during the summer months, but it's also a great way to raise scholarship funds for colleges and universities," said New York Racing Association Senior Vice President and Chief Experience Officer Lynn LaRocca. "We look forward to seeing a display of school pride at the Spa this summer."

All entrants must be at least 18 years old. Winners are subject to all state and federal tax requirements. Other regulations and restrictions may apply. 

Advance registration is required to participate in the College & Alumni Day Handicapping Tournament. Special group rates are available. To register your group of 10 or more, email [email protected]. Registration deadline is July 21. 

Season ticket plans, season passes, weekly ticket plans, single-day reserved seats, reserved tables, dining and group hospitality are currently on sale and available for purchase through www.NYRA.com/Saratoga. 

The summer racing season at Saratoga Race Course begins on Friday, July 21 and runs through Labor Day, Monday, September 4. There is no racing at Saratoga on Tuesdays.