Venerable Saratoga Race Course, for the first time in its history, is going after the college market.
The New York Racing Association’s executive vice president and COO, Hal Handel, has announced a unique program on September 4 which will admit college students free with their IDs, and award a $1,000 scholarship to a lucky winner after each race.
In addition to the scholarships, iPods, iTunes gift cards, digital cameras and a $250 airline gift card will be given away.
Handel called the idea “a great way to showcase the sport and facility,” and added that there is no better setting for someone to see horse racing for the first time than at Saratoga. Few would argue that point, and with numerous colleges and universities in the Saratoga area, including Skidmore, Union College and Albany, the promotion should be a solid winner.
Handel said a college day held at Keeneland in the spring was highly successful.
(Harness Track of America Daily Newsletter)