So it should come as no surprise that the New York Racing Association is launching a big online contest – the Belmont Stakes Prize Package -- centered around the 140th Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 7.

“This year marks a new era in the Belmont Stakes fan experience,” said Gavin Landry, NYRA Senior Vice-President of Sales and Market Development. “We have built an entire festival around our premier racing day, featuring the Movin’ Out Band live in concert and a variety of family-oriented games.

“To help celebrate this exciting event, we are offering one lucky fan the chance to win VIP tickets to the Belmont Stakes along with travel and accommodations provided by Delta Air Lines and the Garden City Hotel.”

All fans have a big shot at winning the Belmont Stakes Prize Package. To enter, merely sign up online at www.nyra.com before 6 p.m. EDT on Saturday, May 24. The contest is free, but all contestants must be at least 21 years of age as of Monday, May 26, 2008 and must supply correct e-mail, telephone and address information.

The Belmont Prize Package winner will receive two (2) VIP tickets to the 2008 Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park on Saturday, June 7, two (2) round-trip Delta Air Lines tickets, and a two-night stay at the Garden City Hotel.

Two runner-ups will have the choice of either two (2) VIP tickets to the 2008 Travers Stakes at Saratoga Race Course on Saturday, August 23rd, or one (1) $200 Gift Certificate to the online NYRA Store, redeemable for Officially Licensed NYRA Merchandise. Shipping and Handling is included.

The Belmont Stakes Prize Package winner and runner-ups will be determined by a random drawing and will be announced on NYRA’s Memorial Day simulcast program on Monday, May 26 following the conclusion of Race 3 at Belmont Park. All prize winners will also be contacted via email and telephone on Monday, May 26.

Officers and employees of New York Racing Association Inc. are not eligible for the contest.

To enter the contest: click here