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The New York Racing Association (NYRA) is celebrating the successful conclusion of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course. The festival, which ran from Wednesday (June 4) to Sunday (June 8), attracted thousands of horse racing fans eager to witness top-tier competition. The highlight of the event was the Belmont Stakes, held on Saturday (June 7), where Kentucky Derby champion Sovereignty claimed victory.
This year's festival marked an expansion, featuring five days of world-class racing and entertainment, including live music and family-friendly activities. The event boasted over $11 million in stakes purses, with the Belmont Stakes offering a $2 million prize.
The festival's success comes as NYRA prepares for the upcoming July Fourth Racing Festival, scheduled from July 3 to July 6 at Saratoga. The July Fourth event will precede the traditional 40-day summer meet, which begins on July 10 and concludes on Labor Day (September 1). NYRA President and CEO David O'Rourke expressed excitement for the continued festivities at Saratoga, highlighting the unique energy and tradition of the venue.
As the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival wraps up, live racing will temporarily shift to Aqueduct Racetrack before returning to Saratoga for the July Fourth Racing Festival. Information about tickets and hospitality for upcoming events will be available early next year.