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NYRA to celebrate first responders at Saratoga Race Course

by Pat McKenna, Mark Bardack

All first responders to receive free admission in recognition of their service

NYRA to host the NYPD Ceremonial Unit and pipe and drum bands from both FDNY and NYSP

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will honor police officers, firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) for their dedication and service to the community on First Responders Day, Thursday, July 27, at Saratoga Race Course.

The day will feature free admission for all first responders with proper identification and include a race named in their honor.

For the first time ever, NYRA will host special same-day performances by two of New York’s most celebrated first responder pipe and drum bands: The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) and the New York State Police (NYSP). Each will perform trackside and will be supplemented by an appearance from the New York Police Department (NYPD) Ceremonial Unit.

“These brave first responders answer the call of duty by protecting communities throughout New York State,” said David O’Rourke, NYRA President & CEO. “NYRA is honored to celebrate their dedicated service with an enjoyable and entertaining day here at the Spa.”

The FDNY Emerald Society Pipes and Drums is comprised entirely of retired and active New York City firefighters and has performed at the funerals and memorial dedications for every firefighter who served during 9/11. The FDNY Band is also renowned for their world-class performances during the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City. They last visited Saratoga Race Course in 2019.

The New York State Troopers Pipes and Drums was the first Police Pipe Band to organize in the U.S. and performed at Saratoga Race Course in 2021 and 2022.

The NYPD Ceremonial Unit conducts hundreds of ceremonies each year in honor of police officers in New York and across the U.S.

First responders recognized at the track will include members of the Saratoga Springs Police Department and Saratoga Springs Fire Department, which will showcase one of their fire engines in the backyard and offer fire safety information and kids activities. The Saratoga Springs Fire Department will occupy the NYRA Community Booth.

First Responder Day festivities will include a trackside demonstration by a New York State Police K-9 unit, in addition to a recruiting event hosted by the State Police offering fans the opportunity to learn about the benefits of a career in public service. The event will be held between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the Jockey Silks Room Porch.

Highlighted by the 154th edition of the Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers on August 26 and the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney on August 5, the 2023 summer meet at historic Saratoga Race Course continues through Monday, September 4.

Racing is conducted five days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays, apart from the final week, when the meet will conclude on Labor Day.

For more information about Saratoga Race Course visit NYRA.com.