All-sources handle for Friday's opening day of the Saratoga meet reached $20,247,319-the second consecutive season to open above the $20 million threshold. On-track handle was $5,403,833, an increase of nearly 8% over 2017.
“It's great to be back at Saratoga for another season of the best Thoroughbred racing in the world supported by great fans,” said NYRA CEO and President Chris Kay. “Opening Day is always special, and this year was made even more so with the debut of our new hospitality area called The Stretch. The weather could not have been more perfect as we look forward to a tremendous summer meet featuring the greatest owners, trainers, jockeys and horses in the sport.”
The Stretch, located in the Grandstand at the Top of the Stretch, opened with a sold-out, standing-room only crowd Friday. The private hospitality area offers a casual environment featuring new modern boxes, a two-tiered dining area alongside an expansive bar, and more than 200 premium reserved seats.
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