Wednesday is “Proud to be an American Day at Saratoga Race Course” as the
historic track pays tribute to the Armed Forces.
All United States military personnel and veterans receive free grandstand
admission with a valid military ID, courtesy of the Saratoga County Board of
Supervisors. The day will include musical tributes to the military, as well as
interactive displays, named races and a visit from the reigning Miss New York
and former Miss America.
Each branch of the United States military will be featured in the backyard
with information tables and interactive displays, while, on track, Saratoga Race
Course will present several named races in their honor. In addition, the New
York National Guard, New York Army National Guard and New York Air National
Guard will offer an extensive display of military equipment, recruiting displays
and interactive exhibits. Patrons are encouraged to drop off items with
Operation Adopt a Soldier that will be sent to American servicemen and women
overseas.
Gates open at 11 a.m. (EDT), and the following events are scheduled:
* 11:30 a.m. Former Miss America Kate Shindle will sing the National Anthem,
which will precede a special ceremony in the winner’s circle to honor as many as
100 NYRA employees who have served in the military. Immediately following the
anthem, the Music Studio kids will sing “Thank You for being Our Heroes.”
* 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Fans will be able to record an electronic greeting card
on DVD to send to troops overseas. Miss New York 2009, Alyse Zwick, an active
veterans’ supporter, will greet patrons as they record their personalized
message, near the Big Red Spring.
* 1:30 p.m. Miss New York 2009 presents trophy in the winner’s circle after
the second race named in honor of American veterans.
* 12:30 p.m. (track apron), 1:15 p.m. (Band Stand), 2 p.m. (Big Red Spring),
2:30 p.m. (Band Stand), 3:30 p.m. (Band Stand) The Music Studio will bring
together over a dozen melodic minors to perform classic patriotic themed songs.
* Additional named races for the New York Army National Guard; the United
States Coast Guard; Air Force, Navy and Marines throughout the day.