Saratoga Springs has been attracting travelers even before the American Revolution when wealthy pilgrims journeyed to the carbonated mineral springs running through the area.
Its where decisive battles were fought during the American Revolution and Civil War. The 1777 Battle of Saratoga, considered the first Colonial victory and a turning point in the Revolutionary War, ended with General John Burgoyne surrendering his British troops.
During the Civil War, Americas oldest thoroughbred racetrack opened on Aug. 26, 1863. The Saratoga Racing Association bought 71 acres to other land already set for racing. On Aug. 1, 1864, a new course was established in almost the same spot as todays Saratoga.
New York Racing Association (NYRA) officials have announced across-the-board purse increases for the 36-day meeting than opens July 26. All classes of races will receive increases, said Bill Nader, NYRA senior vice president.
There are a lot of changes on this schedule, including some purse reductions or eliminations of stakes, but we made sure that NYRAs commitment to excellence remains...