Across the Board with Andy Serling

Ryan Martin

​On Saturday, August 22, 1987, the Travers Stakes celebrated its 118th running. While not a milestone number, that year’s edition was special for two reasons as it marked the first year the race boasted a $1 million purse, becoming Saratoga Race Course’s first seven-figure race; and the Travers field saw not only one of its best ever lineups, but also one of the most talented group of horses ever to compete against each other at the historic track.

Lynne Snierson

​The “V” in Johnny V stands for victory. John Velazquez, affectionately known to his legion of fans around the racing world as Johnny V, has won almost 6,500 races, broken records with regularity, and set major milestones throughout his Hall of Fame career in the irons. Now another mark is about to be established as the all-time leading rider at Saratoga Race Course stands on the precipice of winning race No. 1,000 here at the Spa.

NYRA Press Office

There was a time when Annise Montplaisir, horse crazy as a young teenager, was part of racing’s “next generation.” Today, as a graduate of North Dakota State University and the Godolphin Flying Start program with a range of experience in the racing business, Montplaisir has joined the industry’s current generation. Along the way, she’s picked up something exceedingly valuable: a passion for using the lessons learned to help newcomers find their path in the industry as well.

Ryan Martin

The NYRA Press Office checked in with a selection of New York-based racing personalities to get their reflections on a memorable year.

NYRA Press Office

​There is much to enjoy at Saratoga Race Course, ranging from witnessing top thoroughbreds competing to soaking in the atmosphere at one of the country’s most venerable tracks during the 40-day summer meet that concluded Monday.

Ryan Martin

The latest episode of Across the Board with Andy Serling features an interview with trainer Brendan Walsh, who will saddle likely favorite Maxfield in the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney on August 7 at Saratoga Race Course. The podcast is available to stream at https://soundcloud.com/acrosstheboardwithandyserling