NYRA Recognized at Simulcast Conference

by Jane Murray-TRA Director of Services

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) was recognized for extraordinary achievement in daily racing presentation for its ground-breaking production of Saratoga Live at the 24th annual International Simulcast Conference in New Orleans, La.

Saratoga Live, a two and a half hour program airing on race days during the Saratoga live Thoroughbred meet on Fox Sports 2, as well as regional networks Altitude and MSG+, launched July 22 and was broadcast to a regional and national audience of 65 million homes.

TRA Executive Vice President Chris Scherf noted, “NYRA’s investment and commitment to produce a network quality sports presentation was an exceptional undertaking in the racing industry.”

The show centered on the Pick 4, which consisted of the last four races each day, including the feature, with live racing commentary from a talented team of handicappers and racing experts. Along with in-depth handicapping analysis, numerous pre-production features included profiles on individual horses and interviews with trainers and owners to give the viewers a sense of the Saratoga experience.

David Nathanson, the head of Business Operations for Fox Sports Media Group, told racing writer Bob Ehalt in July: “NYRA is making a huge investment in this show and we’re happy to be part of it. We believe in Thoroughbred racing and believe there can be a growth of the audience for the show.”

The International Simulcast Conference is hosted by the Thoroughbred Racing Associations and Harness Tracks of America, in association with the American Greyhound Track Operators Association.