Saratoga Race Course to host Wish Wednesday on July 29

Saratoga Race Course will host Make-A-Wish on the first Wednesday of live racing during the summer meet, Wednesday, July 29, featuring more than 50 Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York family members. The second annual Wish Wednesday will offer local Wish Kids and their families a unique experience through the excitement of world-class thoroughbred racing.

Guests will enjoy the afternoon from the Minoetto Easy Goer, where they will be treated to lunch while enjoying live racing at the Spa. Throughout the day, Wish Kids and their immediate families will enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences, including a guided paddock tour and access to the winner's circle.

A highlight of this year's event will be a surprise wish reveal. During the afternoon, Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York and The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will announce a life-changing wish for one local child and their family, creating a memorable moment shared by all in attendance.

"Long after a wish has been granted, many Wish Kids continue to spend time in hospitals and medical appointments," said Jamie Hathaway, President & CEO, Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York. "To be able to offer our Wish Families continued opportunities that spark joy is a huge gift, and we are so grateful to NYRA and this racing community for all they do to support our families."

Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York grants more than 100 wishes a year across Vermont and 15 counties in northeast New York. Wish Wednesday reflects NYRA's ongoing commitment to support organizations that strengthen the communities it serves while creating memorable experiences for children and families during New York's premier racing season.

"Every child and family deserves an opportunity to step away from their daily challenges to simply enjoy being together, which is exactly what Wish Wednesday is all about,” said Robert Hines, NYRA Community Affairs Manager. “NYRA is proud to partner with Make-A-Wish to provide a day filled with memorable experiences.”

Highlighted by the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney on Saturday, August 8 and the 157th renewal of the Grade 1, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers on Saturday, August 29, the Saratoga summer meet continues through Labor Day, Monday, September 7.

For more information about Saratoga Race Course, visit NYRA.com.

About Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York

Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York is a nonprofit organization dedicated to granting life-changing wishes to provide hope, strength, and joy throughout the healing process. Operating from Wishing Spaces in Shelburne, Vermont and Saratoga Springs, New York, the chapter has granted nearly 3,500 wishes since 1986. With the support of generous donors, volunteers, and community partners, we serve Wish Kids across a community spanning 20,000 square miles throughout Vermont and 15 counties in Northeast New York. For more information, visit www.vtny.wish.org.