SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will offer fans the opportunity to learn about the many teams and leagues with a home field advantage in the Capital Region during New York Sports Day at Saratoga Race Course on Wednesday, August 21 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Prominently featured will be Rensselaer Athletics with head men’s hockey coach Dave Smith on hand to meet fans.
Fans in attendance will also take home the third giveaway of the season: a Saratoga beach towel, presented by Upstate Ford Dealers. The circular beach towel features a colorful rendering of a thoroughbred and jockey charging down the track. Giveaways are free with paid admission, while supplies last.
The Albany Empire, fresh off their win in ArenaBowl XXXII, will offer fans the chance to view the Arena Football League championship trophy and meet several of the team’s players during New York Sports Day.
Additionally, Siena Saints men’s basketball head coach Carmen Maciariello will join Coach Smith at the Coca-Cola Saratoga Pavilion during the afternoon.
The Pavilion will feature displays and exhibits from regional sports teams and athletic programs between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. The teams will offer information about their upcoming seasons, as well as ticket and merchandise giveaways.
Other New York Sports Day participants include the Adirondack Thunder; Tri-City ValleyCats; and University at Albany Great Danes. Representatives and mascots from the participating teams will gather in the winner’s circle for the day’s fifth race, which is named in honor of New York Sports Day.
“The passion we witness each day from our fans is certainly part of what makes Saratoga such a special place. We look forward to highlighting nearby teams and athletic programs that benefit from the same enthusiasm of Capital Region fans who make this area such an exciting place for sports,” said NYRA Director of Guest Services Will Alempijevic. “We encourage everyone to join us as we kick off Travers Week with a day dedicated to celebrating local sports.”
New York Sports Day comes just three days before the 150th running of the Grade 1, $1.25 million Runhappy Travers at Saratoga Race Course on Saturday, August 24.
