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Union College Hockey national championship team to visit Saratoga Race Course

by Pat McKenna, Mark Bardack

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will welcome players and staff from the 2014 Union College Hockey men’s national championship team to Saratoga Race Course on Friday, July 19 in celebration of the 10th anniversary of their historic achievement. A meet-and-greet with team members will coincide with the first premium giveaway of the summer.

Players from the squad that captured the 2014 NCAA Division I Men’s Hockey National Championship – including Frozen Four MVP and National Hockey League defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere and Union Captain Mat Bodie – will sign autographs and take photos with fans at the Jockey Silks Porch from 1:30 p.m. until 2:15 p.m. The 2014 NCAA Division I Championship Trophy will also be on display for photo opportunities.

The afternoon will feature a special named race – the 2014 Union Hockey National Championship – to be run at approximately 2:50 p.m. in honor of the team. Members of the 2014 National Championship team will present the trophy to the winning connections following the conclusion of the race.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Union College Hockey’s national championship at Saratoga Race Course,” said Jim McLaughlin, the College’s athletic director. “This honor not only commemorates a remarkable achievement in our program's history but also underscores the enduring spirit and dedication of our athletes, coaches and supporters. We are proud of our team’s legacy and excited to share this milestone with the Saratoga horse racing community.”

The 2014 Union College Hockey team earned its first national title after capping an historic run to the Frozen Four with a victory over Boston College in the semifinals before defeating the University of Minnesota in a thrilling National Championship. Gostisbehere, the tournament MVP, recently completed his 10th NHL season and is one of 17 members from the team to go on and play professionally after completing their time at Union.

“NYRA is proud to welcome members of the 2014 Union College NCAA Division I Men’s Hockey program to Saratoga Race Course to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of its unforgettable championship,” said David O’Rourke, NYRA President & CEO. “Our fans recognize and appreciate elite performances, which is why this setting is so appropriate for the occasion.”

Meanwhile, the first of four premium giveaways for the 2024 meet at Saratoga Race Course will be available on Friday, July 19. Fans will have the chance to receive a 40-ounce, white drink tumbler adorned with the traditional red Saratoga logo. The giveaway is free with paid admission, while supplies last. Fans must present an admission coupon at designated locations on track to redeem the item.

Highlighted by the 155th renewal of the Grade 1, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers on August 24 and the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney on August 3, the Saratoga summer meet continues through Monday, September 2.

Racing is conducted five days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays, apart from closing week, when the meet will conclude on Labor Day.

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