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Saratoga Race Course to host Stanley Cup on Saturday

by Pat McKenna, Mark Bardack

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced that one of the most celebrated trophies in sports, the National Hockey League’s Stanley Cup, will travel to Saratoga Race Course on Saturday, August 31.

Fans of hockey and horse racing alike will have an opportunity to take photos with the Stanley Cup at no charge. The world-famous trophy will be on display from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Jockey Silks Porch.

Saturday's 13-race card will feature a special first post of 12:05 p.m. with admission gates opening at 10:30 a.m.

Awarded annually to the National Hockey League’s championship team, the Stanley Cup currently resides with the Florida Panthers, whose principal owner has a strong connection to Saratoga Race Course. Vincent “Vinnie” Viola is the owner of the prominent thoroughbred racing operation St. Elias Stable.

“We are grateful to Vinnie Viola for bringing the iconic Stanley Cup to Saratoga Race Course, an appropriate setting where champions compete every summer,” said NYRA President & CEO Dave O’Rourke. “We know our fans will enjoy and appreciate the opportunity to take photos with the Cup, and we thank the Florida Panthers organization for allowing us to share in the celebration of their success.”

The Stanley Cup routinely travels from city to city across the United States and Canada as each member of the championship team is afforded the opportunity to spend a day in possession of the trophy. The Cup had previously visited Saratoga during the 2015 summer meet courtesy of Warren County resident Kevin Dineen, who served as an assistant coach for the Chicago Blackhawks during their championship season.

Labor Day weekend festivities will also include the final premium giveaway on Sunday, Sept. 1, when fans will receive a Saratoga windbreaker, free with paid admission, while supplies last. The Saratoga windbreaker is presented by NYRA Bets.

Sunday will feature a special first post of 12:05 p.m. with admission gates opening at 10:30 a.m. First post is 12:35 p.m. on Friday and Monday.

Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2, will mark the closing day of the Saratoga meet, and the annual running of the Grade 1, $300,000 Hopeful for 2-year-olds that will offer racing fans an early look at potential contenders for the 2025 Triple Crown series.

For additional information and updates check NYRA.com. For special offers on tickets and hospitality during Fan Appreciation Week, visit NYRA.com/Fans.