Marylou Whitney, undoubtedly one of the most famous philanthropists in Saratoga Springs since the 1950s will turn 90 this Christmas Eve. In addition to wishing her a very happy birthday, take a look at all she has accomplished in Spa City throughout her life:
Commonly referred to as the Queen of Saratoga, Whitney has tirelessly contributed her time and resources to create beneficial programs and donate to local causes in the area.
Ready for a bit of history? Whitney was an original founder of SPAC and helped endorse the prestigious New York City Ballet’s summer residency in Spa City. “She and her late husband Sonny helped lead the effort to establish SPAC out of a desire to spur economic growth and cultural vitality in Saratoga Springs, a community they loved. It was a visionary project that moved forward because of their extraordinary generosity and leadership,” said SPAC President Marcia J. White, the Saratogian reported.
She is also known for generously donating to organizations around the community. She once bid $100,000 for dinner at The Wishing Well at an auction to benefit the Saratoga Hospital. We know the food at The Wishing Well is delicious, but it just goes to show how benevolent Whitney is in the name of a good cause.
In 2008, Whitney and her husband, John Hendrickson created the Saratoga Backstretch Appreciation Program. The program includes Sunday dinners, various social events and daily activities for nearly 1,000 Race Course workers and their families throughout the racing season.
Just this past summer, Whitney became the first female to receive a plaque in the Saratoga Walk of Fame. This solidified her status as not only a local philanthropist but as an accomplished thoroughbred racing professional. Her Marylou Whitney Stables has produced 2004 Belmont Stakes and Travers winner Birdstone, 2009 Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird and 2009 three-year-old champion Summer Bird.
We would like to wish Marylou a very happy birthday from all of us at Saratoga.com!
Source:
Saratogian
