The region's most famous racetrack and the leading provider of post-acute care for children are partnering to raise funds and awareness for some of New York's most seriously ill youngsters, with Belmont Park serving as the host site for the annual Walk for St. Mary's Kids and Family Fun Day on Sunday, May 18.

Thousands of participants are expected for the event, which begins at 9 a.m. at the Marquee Tent. Grand Marshals Rosie Lawrence and William LeMar, two special children who receive services from St. Mary's, will be leading teams along the three-mile walkathon around Belmont Park. At 9:30, Family Fun Day activities begin with pony rides, arts and crafts, inflatables, the FDNY Smoke House and Exhibit, and more.

"The support and help the New York Racing Association has given us will enable us to carry on our work," said Dr. Burt Grebin, president and CEO of St. Mary's. "I thank Belmont Park and the New York Racing Association for embracing the mission of St. Mary's."

St. Mary's Healthcare System for Children is the largest provider of long-term care for children in New York State to more than than 4,000 children with special needs and life-limiting conditions.

"NYRA has a commitment to our surrounding communities," said Gavin Landry, NYRA senior vice president. "Our whole team has fully embraced the mission of St. Mary's and is pleased to have been selected to host this annual grassroots event."

The first race of the day has been named the "Race for St. Mary's Kids," and LaMar and his family, along with Dr. Grebin, will make the trophy presentation.

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