The BERTRAM F. BONGARD is named for one of the founding directors of the Eastern New York Thoroughbred Breeders' Association. He was also one of the original members and the former treasurer of the New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. Additionally, Mr. Bongard was instrumental in promoting legislation for the New York Breeders' fund. The BETRAM F. BONGARD was run at a mile and an eighth prior to 1983, and from 1984 to 1988; at seven furlongs in 1983, and from 1996 to the present; at a mile and a sixteenth from 1989 to 1993; at six furlongs in 1994 and 1995. Run for three year olds and up prior to 1984; now run for two year olds. Run as the Bertram F. Bongard Handicap prior to 1984.