College Day a Success at Saratoga
Saratoga Race Course welcomed back college students to their favorite course during the sixth annual College Day, presented by Toyota, on Friday, July 25. Track goers of all ages donned their alma mater's colors or favorite collegiate team's gear for the chance to win special prizes.
The New York Racing Association, Inc. offered college students enrolled in the upcoming academic year the chance to win one of numerous $1,000 scholarships offered throughout the day. Toyota and Northeastern Fine Jewelry presented two of the day's scholarships.
College students also had the opportunity to win Saratoga grandstand season passes. Students registered for the chance to win the scholarships, season passes and other prizes in the backyard near the Big Red Spring beginning at 11 a.m.
All college students who registered received a $5 voucher that may be used for food or merchandise at any on-track concession. The first 1,000 college students to register received a Toyota drawstring bag and a personalized bag of Saratoga Chips.
The New York Racing Association paid tribute to the 2014 NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey Champions from Union College with a race named in their honor on College Day. Head Coach Rick Bennett presented the trophy to the winner of the day's third race. Additionally, the NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey championship trophy was on display throughout the afternoon near the Big Red Spring in the backyard.
Additional scholarships awarded on College Day and scholarship-related highlights include:
- The New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. presented the $5,000 Gerald A. Nielsen, Sr. New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. Scholarship to Kaitlyn Douglas; and the $5,000 Debby Malloy Winkler New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. Scholarship to Nicolina Foti. Both students are enrolled in an equine program at a New York State school.
- The New York State Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund awarded six scholarships of $2,500 each for a total of $15,000 to students who will be pursuing careers in New York State's thoroughbred racing or breeding industries.