Saratoga Racecourse Season: Driving Economic Growth in Saratoga Springs, NY
The Saratoga Racecourse season in Saratoga Springs, NY, has had a significant economic impact on the Capital Region. The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce reported that the racecourse attracted over a million attendees for the tenth consecutive year. Todd Shimkus, the Chamber's president, emphasized the importance of Saratoga as a professional sports franchise for the region.
This year, the New York Racing Association (NYRA) extended the race calendar by nine days, incorporating events like the Belmont Festival and July Fourth weekend. Pat McKenna, NYRA's vice president of communications, highlighted the positive effects of these additions on the overall summer season in Saratoga, including increased crowds, wagering handle, and enthusiasm.
Local businesses have also benefited from the racecourse season. Alyson Stryker, executive director of Sheldon Fine Art, reported that this summer has been the most profitable yet for her business. Despite some vendors experiencing a slow start, like Cristina Britton, co-owner of Pies on Wheels, the season eventually picked up, leading to a positive outlook for the future.
Looking ahead, there are changes on the horizon, with the final leg of the Triple Crown set to move to the new Belmont Park in Elmont after next year. However, Stryker remains optimistic about the continuous flow of visitors to Saratoga. Shimkus also sees potential for increased attendance with a return to a more traditional schedule, and the Chamber of Commerce is planning a week-long festival in partnership with NYRA to bid farewell to the Belmont Stakes next year.
In conclusion, the Saratoga Racecourse season has had a significant impact on the local economy, attracting a large number of attendees and benefiting businesses in the region. Despite upcoming changes, there is optimism for the future and plans to continue celebrating the racing tradition in Saratoga Springs.