Winners crowned at 26th annual Hat Contest, presented by Hat Sationa! by DEI, during opening weekend festivities at Saratoga Race Course

by Pat McKenna and Mark Bardack

The New York Racing Association, Inc. today honored the tradition of hats in thoroughbred racing with the 26th annual Hat Contest, presented by Hat Sationa! by DEI, at Saratoga Race Course. The event was one element of a series of festivities during opening weekend of the 2017 summer racing season.

The contest unfolded on Sunday afternoon when numerous participants turned out to compete in three distinct categories: Uniquely Saratoga, Fashionably Saratoga, and for younger patrons, Kreative Kids.

Following the day's fifth race Julie Potter of Duanesburg, NY, was crowned the winner of the day's most celebrated category, "Uniquely Saratoga," which recognizes whimsical and creative hats. This marked Potter's fifth straight win in the category. Potter received the grand prize of a $100 Hat Sationa! by DEI gift card. Rounding out the category's finalists were second place winner Dan Smith of Fonda, NY; and third place winner Sharon Shogry of Pittsfield, MA. The finalists each received gift certificates from Hat Sationa! by DEI.

The day's most popular category, "Fashionably Saratoga," attracted a large number of contestants donning their most beautiful hats. Following the fourth race, Maurita Smith of Fort Johnson, NY, was named "most fashionable" and awarded a $100 Hat Sationa! by DEI gift card. Arlene Hogan of Clifton Park, NY, came in second place; and Kailee Cutler of Fonda, NY, ranked third. The finalists each received gift certificates from Hatsationa! by DEI.

Ashley Brennan, 12, of Saugerties, NY, claimed the title of most stylish youngster in the "Kreative Kids" competition which is reserved for those 18 and under. Kiarra Seymour, 9, of Saratoga Springs, NY, finished in second place followed by her sister Bailee Seymour, 12, in third place. Each received the prize of fascinators from Hat Sationa! By DEI.

The 2017 summer meet at Saratoga Race Course continues through Labor Day, Monday, September 4. For more information, visit www.NYRA.com/Saratoga.