Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Racing 101 at Saratoga
By Michael Fenrich
The backyard area at Saratoga has seen many fans enjoying the atmosphere; it is like a street fair with several tents set up to sell art work, food, clothing, jewelry and other merchandise.
This year there is one new tent at the Spa called Racing 101, which features horse racing Ambassador Joe Kristufek and his staff helping to explain the strategies of thoroughbred wagering.
On the NYRA website there is a video that shows the new addition to the racetrack this season. A lot of the crowds are new to racing and this is a great way to teach them the finer points of placing a wager.
Patrons who stroll by can learn how to read past performances, use the betting machines and the proper verbiage to place a bet at the window. During the day trainers and jockeys actually visit and interact with the public, signing autographs and discussing the game.
For six weeks during the summer Saratoga is always busy with local residents and tourists, this new learning tool allows everyone to have a profitable and enjoyable experience at the races.
There are still a few weeks left at Saratoga, make sure you get out and gallop over to the new Racing 101 tent to learn more about horse racing and enjoy the thrill of the game.
