Last month, the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) announced that Saratoga Race Course would reopen to fans at near full capacity for the 2021 season. However, thanks to New York State hitting the 70% vaccination threshold and removing COVID-19 protocols for almost all activities and industries, Saratoga Race Course will now reopen at 100% capacity.
Here’s What Racing Fans Need to Know
In a recent press release, NYRA explained that the lifting of COVID-19 protocols applies to all hospitality areas and venues within Saratoga Race Course, including the backyard area, the 1863 Club, and The Stretch. Fans do not have to provide proof of vaccination status, which was previously a requirement for purchasing a season admission pass.
Although non-vaccinated individuals are still required to wear a facial covering during their day at Saratoga, all sections of the historic racetrack will be open at 100% capacity.
“As New Yorkers collectively reach this major milestone in the fight against COVID-19, NYRA thanks Governor Cuomo for his leadership in achieving this goal and for the opportunity to welcome fans back to Saratoga this summer,” NYRA President and CEO Dave O’Rourke said in the article.
NYRA also announced the reopening of the Whitney Viewing Stand at the Oklahoma Training Track. Starting Saturday, June 26, the public is welcome to watch the morning training from 7:00am-10:00am, and prior to Opening Day, the Whitney Viewing Stand will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00am-10:00am. Access will be available via Gate 21 on East Avenue.
Get Your Tickets for the 2021 Season
Season and weekly ticket plans are now available for the 2021 season at Saratoga Race Course, and group hospitality reservations are being accepted. Single-day tickets will go on sale on Wednesday, June 23, at 10:00am on Ticketmaster.com, and single-day dining reservations will be accepted starting Wednesday, June 30, at 10:00am on Ticketmaster.com.
Opening Day is Thursday, July 15, and as previously announced, all fans who show proof of vaccination via the NY State Excelsior Pass will receive free Grandstand general admission on this day. If you’re coming from outside NY State, then you can show your Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card instead.
