Equicurean 2019 by Saratoga TODAY

EQUICUREAN THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

SUMMER 2019 COMPLIMENTARY

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Celebrate The Pursuit of Excellence.

EMBRACE THE RACE® 327 Broadway Saratoga Springs, NY embracetherace.com

Wear What You Love™ 04 | Equicurean | July 2019

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EQUICUREAN THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty

General Manager Robin Mitchell

Graphic Design Marisa Scirocco

Advertising Design Morgan Rook

Advertising Sales Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Becky Kendall

Contributing Writers Polo

Alan Edstrom

Thoroughbred

Joyce Anderson Brien Bouyea Tracey Buyce Colleen Coleman Katey Freeman Holmes Megin Potter Theresa St. John L.A. Sokolowski

Photographers Polo

Dan Heary Johnny Miller Cliff Oliver Image Photo and Events

Thoroughbred

Connie Bush Tracey Buyce Sharon Castro Barbara Livingston @CManchegoPhotos SuperSourceMedia.com NYRA

Published by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518) 581-2480 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com Equicurean is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,or transmitted in any form or by a ny means without prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright © 2019, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper

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CONTENTS

EQUICUREAN THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

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The Track Fashion Ramon Dominguez Backstretch Visitors Fasig - Tipton Royalty Next Door Greatest Horses to Race at the Spa Colleen's Picks Life After the Track The Gypsy Vanner The Bachelor of Thoroughbreds Old Friends at Cabin Creek The Legend of Kincsem Cover photo & contents photo by Sharon Castro

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and...

THEY’RE OFF!

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NYRA

oted as one of the “Top 10 Sporting Venues In The World” by Sports Illustrated, Saratoga Race Course is one of horse racing’s most beloved tracks. With historical ambiance and modern day amenities and style, Saratoga Race Course is the place to find top Thoroughbred horse racing July 11 through Labor Day each year. Racing will be conducted five days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays. The 40-day meet draws the top horses, trainers and owners in the world to try their luck at “the Spa.” Known as the Graveyard of Champions, Saratoga Race Course has earned a reputation for being a challenging track for favorites. In fact, the dominant Man O’ War lost his only race against the aptly named Upset here at Saratoga.

ADMISSION: Single-day Grandstand admission is $7 and Clubhouse admission is $10. Single-day admission for the 150th running of the Runhappy Travers on Saturday, August 24 is $10 for Grandstand and $25 for Clubhouse. Admission may be purchased at the gates or in advance at Ticketmaster.com.

DAILY CLUBHOUSE AND GRANDSTAND RESERVED SEATS: Daily individual reserved seats in the Clubhouse and Grandstand, which include admission, may be purchased in advance online through Ticketmaster.com. A limited number of reserved seats for the current day are available for purchase beginning at 9 a.m. at the Reserved Seat Box Office, located at Gate A on Union Avenue. There is a limit of four seats per person. All tickets purchased in advance of race day include the cost of admission.

FULL SEASON RESERVED SEAT PLANS: Full-season plans, which include admission, provide a reserved seat in the Clubhouse or Grandstand for the full 40-day season. Full season ticket plans may be purchased online through NYRA AccountManager. Based on availability.

WEEKLY RESERVED SEAT PLANS: Weekly ticket plans, which include admission, provide a reserved seat in the Clubhouse or Grandstand for five consecutive days of the meet from Wednesday through Sunday (Thursday through Sunday for Opening Weekend; and Wednesday through Monday

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for Closing Week). Weekly ticket plans may be purchased online through NYRA AccountManager. Week-long reserved seat plans for the 2019 meet at Saratoga Race Course are available (based on available inventory) as follows: • Week 1, Opening Weekend, featuring the Diana: Thurs. July 11 - Sun. July 14 • Week 2, featuring the Coaching Club American Oaks: Wed. July 17 - Sun. July 21 • Week 3, featuring the Jim Dandy: Wed. July 24 - Sun. July 28 • Week 4: featuring the Whitney and Turf Triple: Wed. July 31 - Sun. Aug. 4 • Week 5, featuring the Fourstardave: Wed. Aug. 7 - Sun. Aug. 11 • Week 6, featuring the Alabama: Wed. Aug. 14 - Sun. Aug. 18 • Week 7, featuring the Runhappy Travers: Wed. Aug. 21 - Sun. Aug. 25 • Week 8, featuring the Woodward: Wed. Aug. 28 - Mon. Sept. 2

SARATOGA SEASON PASSES: A season pass provides fans with admission to 40 days of worldclass Thoroughbred racing at Saratoga Race Course, including the 150th running of the Runhappy Travers on Saturday, August 24. The cost for a 2019 Grandstand season pass is $50. A Clubhouse season pass is $75. Season passes do not include reserved seating and are valid for one admission. Season passes may be purchased online through NYRA AccountManager or at participating Stewart’s Shops locations throughout the greater Capital Region.

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SEASON PERKS: The 2019 season will feature the Saratoga Season Perks program with exclusive offers for season pass and season ticket plan holders, including: • Guarantee of one premium Saratoga giveaway on each giveaway day (Season pass and season ticket plan holders must be present at Saratoga Race Course and redeem the giveaway by the designated time.) • 10 percent savings to numerous retail, restaurant and professional services locations in downtown Saratoga Springs, in partnership with the Saratoga Downtown Business Association (valid June 1, 2019 through March 31, 2020). • 10 percent savings on tickets to select shows during the Live Nation Summer Concert Series at Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Redeemable on lawn tickets or select Pavilion seats during Pavilion-only shows, subject to availability. The offer is available at the SPAC Box Office only (not valid for purchase day of show). • 10 percent savings on amphitheater tickets to classical events at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, including evening performances of the New York City Ballet (excluding July 20); The Philadelphia Orchestra (excluding August 3); and YAMATO: The Drummers of Japan. The offer is available at the SPAC Box Office only. • 10 percent savings on tickets to the Tri-City ValleyCats, UAlbany Athletics and Siena Basketball; and attractions such as the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame and Saratoga Springs History Museum. • 10 percent savings at most Saratoga Race Course concession stands, NYRA merchandise stores and Shake Shack on Wednesdays and Thursdays and the Artist's Village on Fridays. Discount does not apply to lottery, tobacco, alcohol, restaurant dining, group sales or Dunkin' Donuts. Season pass and season ticket plan holders must present their season pass in order to receive the discounts. The list of incentives, deals and discounts is available at SaratogaSeasonPerks.com. A season pass must be activated in order to receive Saratoga Season Perks discounts and incentives. Season pass holders are required to provide a photo in order to activate their season pass. Activation instructions, including information on how to upload a digital photo, are available at NYRA.com/Saratoga.

1863 CLUB:

Located on the Clubhouse turn, the 1863 Club is a 36,000-square * All images and video are foot building featuring architectural renderings and are subject to change. differentiated hospitality options and modern amenities. In addition to the three floors of usable space for guests, the building is equipped with a full-service kitchen. The 1863 Club is named in honor of the year of the first organized Thoroughbred race meeting in Saratoga, which took place over the course of four days in August 1863. Reservations are available for The Rail at the 1863 Club, the first-floor banquet VIEW THE 1863 CLUB FLY THROUGH

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space which features floor-to-ceiling windows and offers table seating for up to 500 guests. Guests on the first floor have access to a private outdoor area on the apron, offering an outstanding trackside vantage point and thrilling views of Thoroughbreds rounding the Clubhouse turn. Reservations are also being accepted for the second-floor event space, accommodating up to 100 guests, as well as the third-floor luxury suites, with capacities ranging from 30 to 45 guests. All reservations for the 1863 Club are processed through the NYRA Box Office by phone at (844) NYRA-TIX.

THE STRETCH: The Stretch is a private hospitality area featuring modern and upscale amenities in a casual environment with breathtaking views of Thoroughbreds rounding the final turn as they enter the dramatic stretch drive. Ticket holders to The Stretch enjoy exclusive access to a full-service bar, kitchen and concessions, high-definition televisions, special events, and private restrooms. Fans also enjoy a relaxed dress code at The Stretch. Single-day tickets for premium reserved seats in The Stretch are available through Ticketmaster.com. All reserved seating purchased in advance includes admission. All tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis (according to available inventory).

FOURSTARDAVE SPORTS BAR: Located within close proximity to the trackside apron, the Fourstardave Sports Bar includes more than 80 tables available for paid reservation and a sports bar which features an extensive

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craft beer selection, popular food vendors, and 60 flat-screen televisions. The hospitality space also provides protection from the elements. Configurations include options for up to six people, four people, and two-person tables. Personal coolers and outside food and beverage are not permitted in the Fourstardave Sports Bar; on-track food and beverage is allowed. Reserved seating options in the Fourstardave Sports Bar are available for paid reservation through Ticketmaster.com.

MILLER LITE PICNIC PADDOCK: The Miller Lite Picnic Paddock is the section in the backyard at Saratoga Race Course where guests may reserve picnic tables. The Miller Lite Picnic Paddock is comprised of approximately 100 picnic tables, which each seat up to six guests, located adjacent to the paddock and offering premier viewing of horses being saddled before a race. Personal coolers are allowed in the reserved picnic area; coolers may contain plastic bottles or cans and are subject to search by NYRA security. Reserved seating options in the picnic area are available for paid reservation through Ticketmaster.com. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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DINING

AT THE TRACK

DINING RESERVATIONS:

BREAKFAST AT SARATOGA:

Dining reservation requests for the Turf Terrace, Club Terrace and The Porch are accepted via the digital reservation management system TOCK. Same-day dining reservations may be available in-person at Saratoga Race Course. Guests may inquire about same-day reservations at the Wait List Kiosk on the first floor of the Clubhouse near The Porch beginning at 11 a.m. each race day. All reservations are first-come, first-served and based on availability. A non-refundable table charge payment will be required at the time of the reservation. Dining reservations are non-transferable. For more information about dining at Saratoga Race Course, call (888) 516-6972, email SaratogaDining@nyrainc. com or visit NYRA.com/Saratoga/Visit/Dining.

Fans are welcome to enjoy Breakfast at Saratoga, presented by the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA). Breakfast at Saratoga invites guests to enjoy breakfast on The Porch of the Clubhouse at Saratoga Race Course while the Thoroughbreds train on the main track. Breakfast is held daily (except Travers Day, Saturday, August 24) from 7 to 9:30 a.m. and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Admission is free during breakfast hours. Admission must be paid to re-enter the track once gates formally open for the day. Mornings at Saratoga also welcome fans to go behind the scenes with a free, guided backstretch tram tour, courtesy of CDTA. Tram tours begin at 7:30 a.m. and depart from the Clubhouse entrance approximately every 15 minutes through 9 a.m. Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are 45 minutes in length

GROUP HOSPITALITY: Group hospitality reservations for the 2019 season at Saratoga Race Course are on sale now for the following areas: Paddock Tent; Festival Tent; Big Red Spring Tent; Top of the Stretch; Miller Lite Party Tent; and Easy Goer. Group sales reservations will be processed through the NYRA Box Office by phone at (844) NYRA-TIX or via email at boxoffice@nyrainc.com.

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INFORMATION: For questions about reservations for the 2019 season, contact the NYRA Box Office at (844) NYRA-TIX, via email at boxoffice@nyrainc.com or online at NYRA.com/Saratoga.

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T H E

A L L

I M P O RTA N T

TRACK

DRESS CODE

PADDOCK SADDLING AREA, WINNER’S CIRCLE & 1863 CLUB: No shorts or abbreviated wear permitted. Gentlemen–collared shirts required. Box Seat Area: No shorts or jeans permitted. Gentlemen – suits or sports jackets required.

TURF TERRACE: Neat casual attire, no jeans, shorts or abbreviated wear permitted. Gentlemen – collared shirts required (Management reserves the right to use its discretion to determine Neat Casual Attire).

AT THE RAIL PAVILION, THE PORCH, CLUB TERRACE & CAROUSEL RESTAURANT: Gentlemen – No tank tops. No short-shorts, cut-offs or abbreviated wear permitted. Proper attire at management’s discretion.

LUXURY SUITES: No abbreviated wear permitted. Gentlemen - No tank tops. Proper attire at management’s discretion.

CLUBHOUSE: No short shorts, cut-offs or abbreviated wear permitted. No tank tops. Proper attire at management’s discretion.

GRANDSTAND: Shirts and shoes required. People 12 years and over must abide by the dress code.

photo from NYRA.com by Mrs. McDougal

Liz Shutter & Jayden Rundel at Siro's Cup, 2018, photo by SuperSourceMedia.com saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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PrettyRuggedGear.com (833) 778-4433 Four Season faux mink capelet. Available in white, navy, black, chocolate, and leopard $180.00 Spoken Boutique will be debuting them at the Fabulous Fillies luncheon, August 5th at Saratoga National. TOGA HERITAGE and Silverwood will be hosting a special pop up with Pretty Rugged on August 8th to benefit Play for Pink immediately following the Hot Pink Party.

PHOTOS BY SUPERSOURCEMEDIA.COM

494 Broadway • 518.584.4838 VioletsofSaratoga.com (L) Rena Gal Meets Glam “India” Button Front Two Piece Midi Set Splendid “Titana” Whip-Stitched Wedge Sandal Hat Attack “Noelle” Urban Expressions straw crossbody bag (R) Mackenzie Susana Monaco “LBD” Cristina Sabatini clutch Sam Edelman “Delaney” sandal Zenzii gold hoops saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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454 Broadway #8 • 518.587.7890 LuciaBoutique.com

Biscotti Mini Dress by For Love & Lemons Jewelry by Five & Two Tan Suede Lace Up Heels Pink Clutch by Urban Expressions

PHOTOS BY SUPERSOURCEMEDIA.COM

441 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.450.1152 • @piperboutique PiperBoutique.com Gabby Lozier wearing the “Always Royal blue ruffle jumpsuit” $62

Hair and makeup by Rumors Salon and Spa 20 | Equicurean | July 2019

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PHOTOS BY SUPERSOURCEMEDIA.COM

MARK THOMAS MEN'S APPAREL

Wolf Road Park, 5 Metro Park Road Albany • 518.438.7887 MarkThomasMensApparel.com

Canali sportcoat David Donahue shirt Canali pocket square Magnanni shoes

358 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.587.4344 • @thepinkpaddock

Tori Dress with floral eyelet on the back $238

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RAMON DOMINGUEZ FROM GOOD HANDS TO A GENTLE TOUCH WRITTEN BY LA SOKOLOWSKI, EQUINISTA PHOTOS BY @CMANCHEGOPHOTOS

aratoga resident and Thoroughbred racing Hall of Fame jockey Ramon Dominguez still has an appetite for winning. Though retired from racing, he’s introducing a gamechanging innovation to the sport of kings, and it’s put him on a new inside track, where the conditions for success are rated ‘Fast.’

Becoming a great jockey means becoming a great horseman, including understanding how a horse’s skin (its largest organ) is so sensitive that the mere whisper of a fly landing on a horse’s shoulder can elicit a subcutaneous shudder. If so gentle a touch can draw such an immediate and natural response from a young horse, might a gentler touch be just as effective down the homestretch?

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In crafting a response to that question Dominguez, the Eclipse Award leading rider in North America for three successive (2010-12) years, has reinvented and potentially revolutionized a traditional riding aid as old as Genghis Khan. Meet the 360 Gentle Touch, the next evolution in racing crops and, if Dominguez has his way its large, round spongy padding at the end of a stick will be the riding crop of choice for future Olympic, Pan American, and World Champion equestrians, too. It’s not so unrealistic a goal.The 360GT may look like the unlikely marriage of a foam pool noodle to faux cattail plant, but there’s no laughing over how every jockey in this year’s Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks used one. Dominguez is hopeful the 360GT will soon be welcomed at Saratoga and tracks nationwide. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

The idea for the Gentle Touch took shape over a decade ago when he was riding at Delaware Park, and flat jockeys in the United Kingdom and United States were beginning to use cushion crops like the ProCush. Heralded as the most humane crop on the market, its wider, longer poppers produced a louder sound and the improved force distribution seemed gentler on horses’ skin compared to then-standard designs using short poppers and/or leather fringe at the end. But Dominguez saw a design flaw:While the shape of leather poppers at the end of a crop had changed, the seams where poppers stitched to a crop had not.With use, such seams could hone to a cutting edge along a horse’s flank. “I started using (cushion crops) and noticed a couple of things that could improve, so I started working on a prototype.Three years ago I decided it was time to either stop or bring this to fruition, so I started getting it produced professionally.” He started by looking at options other than leather. Like foam. “It has been a long process.We have learned a lot and at the end of the day, we're proud of what we've been able to accomplish.” The 360GT has larger, cushioned padding at the

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end, designed to minimize impact on a horse’s sensitive skin while simultaneously appealing to their acute hearing. “The jockeys say it's great because sound is one of the best ways for us to encourage our horses.Turning for home you can chirp to your horse and they will respond greatly. It's no different here. At the same time we need people to know when you hear a loud noise, that's actually good.” Trevor McCarthy, Maryland’s most winning rider in 2014 and 2016, has been using the 360GT since Laurel Park’s spring meet. It reminded him of a “big cattail” but left a positive impression. “I like it. I think it’s very good for the horses,” McCarthy says. “This is something important for our game, for the protection of our horses and the jockeys, so I’m pretty excited to be using it.” In today’s flat racing climate, Dominguez knows you’ve got to succeed in both the winner’s circle and the court of public opinion: “Jockeys understand we are living in a time where, because of misconceptions about the riding crop, the future of this safety tool could be in jeopardy.” He’s gambling the 360GT will be an odds-on favorite.

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OH NO YOU DON’T!

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WRITTEN BY KATEY FREEMAN HOLMES PHOTOS PROVIDED

Summer descends on Saratoga and the Saratoga Race Course with its trademark excitement, fun and partylike atmosphere. Everybody wants in on the action, and since “The Track” has been affectionately referred to as “a Queen who graciously opens her arms to welcome those who come to worship at her door” why wouldn’t they? Everybody’s entertaining, famous people are in town and everybody wants to see the horses and join the fun! But visiting a racehorse is not the same as going to a petting zoo. Sure, they hang their heads out of their stalls hoping for treats but, and it’s a very BIG BUT, people can’t just walk up to a racehorse and say “Hi.” Let’s go over some pointers… These horses are cared for by people who know how to handle each horse individually. They know the signs that might mean the horse is “off,” in a bad mood, or just wanting to escape from their stalls. With the surge in horse owner ship, many people who have had little or no interaction with these creatures want to show their newly acquired racehorse to their friends and their friend’s children. Walking into a barn unannounced or unexpected can have disastrous results. A trainer recalls an incident with a horse he was training that was owned by an NFL player. The player brought one of his teammates into the shed row where they proceeded to feed the horse a Power Bar. After all, that’s what they’d used for added strength. The problem was, the power bar was loaded with caffeine which is illegal to give to a horse that is getting ready to run. The groom was hesitant in approaching these men, and in the end, was fined and had to face disciplinary action. Another time an owner thought his horse looked thirsty and proceeded to give the horse his cola. Again, caffeine plus race horses – not recommended. Walking down the shed row and petting horses you are not familiar with is asking for trouble. People who have been around horses are careful in their approach to them. Having their ears pinned back is the most telling way a horse lets you know they’re angry. Seeing the whites of their eyes is rarely a good thing. Horses like to toss their heads around and being hit by the thrashing head of a one-thousand-pound animal will not enhance your Saratoga experience. Horses walking in the barn area are apt to jump around suddenly if startled by something new. Plastic bags and the such can cause a horse to become excited. Children visiting the stable should always be held by an adult. Never encourage children to feed a horse anything - especially carrots. Their little fingers look like even more carrots from the horse’s view. Always lay treats (after you have gotten permission to do so) in the palm of your flat hand with no fingers pointing up. Another thing Trainers are afraid of, is the sudden shriek that can come out of a child - at any time. Any loud sound like that will spook a horse.

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In the end, make your barn visit a safe one, a quiet one, and a low-key one. Never touch anyone else’s horse or feed them something unless the groom or trainer is right there to make sure it isn’t something the horse shouldn’t have. There are some Thoroughbreds that are calm and happy all the time and some trainers and owners encourage people to interact with their horses. Look at American Pharoah - his owner can lie in the straw with him and he never blinks an eye. Just don’t assume all horses have that type of sweet disposition. Saratoga should always be a wonderful exciting experience, especially for children. Don’t have them develop a sudden fear of these admirable steeds who simply long to fulfill the very thing for which they’ve been bred for centuries… to race like the wind.

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Fasig-Tipton

SINCE 1898

2019 SARATOGA SALES AUGUST 5 - 6 : THE SARATOGA SALE. SELECTED YEARLINGS The crown jewel of the North American yearling sales calendar is The Saratoga Sale, a selected yearling sale offering the best of the North American yearling crop for nearly 100 years. AUGUST 11 - 12 : NEW YORK BRED YEARLINGS Held the Sunday and Monday following The Saratoga Sale, the New York Bred Yearlings sale is the industry’s leading source of quality New York-bred yearlings.

History Formed in 1898 by William B. Fasig and Edward A. Tipton, Fasig-Tipton Co. is North America’s oldest Thoroughbred auction company. Its first headquarters were in Madison Square Garden in New York, and Fasig-Tipton initially sold high-class road and carriage horses in addition to Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing stock. Fasig-Tipton’s Saratoga sale of selected yearlings is one of the premier horse auctions in the world. It has roots that stretch back to 1917 when FasigTipton formed an alliance with some of the top Kentucky breeders to sell their yearlings during the race meet in upstate New York. The great Man o’ War sold as a yearling at the 1918 Saratoga sale.

The list continues as 1991 Horse of the Year Black Tie Affair, ‘93 Belmont Stakes winner Colonial Affair, ‘94 Kentucky Derby winner Go For Gin, ‘94 champion mare Sky Beauty, 2002 champion two-year-old male Vindication, ‘03 champion threeyear-old male Funny Cide (New York-bred sale), and ‘05 Horse of the Year Saint Liam all emerged from the venerable New York sale grounds. And for those of you who attended this years Belmont Stakes, you saw another Fasig-Tipton prodigy make history as Tapwrit defeated race favorite Irish War Cry in the race's final stretch.

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Humphrey S. Finney, for whom the Saratoga sales pavilion is named, announced his first sale for Fasig-Tipton in 1937. In his 1974 autobiography "Fair Exchange," Finney wrote about an auction company’s need to know about the horses and the value of what they are selling. That commitment to horsemanship and customer service remains a focal point for Fasig-Tipton today.

“

The Saratoga sale has produced numerous household names for international horsemen, such as Raise a Native, Natalma, Hoist the Flag, Danzig, Miswaki, Conquistador Cielo, and two-time champion filly Open Mind.

In data recently released by BloodHorse MarketWatch, The Saratoga Sale once again ranks at the top of all major U.S. yearling sales by percentage of Grade 1 winners, Graded Stakes Winners, and Stakes Winners produced from horses sold.

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THERE’S MAGIC IN THE AIR AT

FASIG-TIPTON

WRITTEN BY KATEY FREEMAN HOLMES PHOTOS PROVIDED

othing else in the world is as exciting as the first night of the annual Fasig-Tipton sales in Saratoga. Horse people, celebrities and people from all over the world mingle with the regular folk, as they carefully watch as each horse chosen for the Select Yearling Sale begins their walk, ending up inside, to entice their perspective new owners. The elegance of the Humphrey Finney Sales Pavilion fits perfectly on a night where only the best of the best is offered for sale. Built in 1968 it is basically used for three auctions; the Selected Yearlings Sale, the New York Bred Sale and the Saratoga Fall Sale (the latter being for horses of all ages). It’s at the first night of these sales, at the beginning of August, when the youngsters are introduced to the sales ring, many for the first time. They often look worried, excited at all the action around them, and tend to whinny loudly from time to time. Some of these babies aren’t even a full year old. In Thoroughbred racing, every horse’s birthday is January 1st. Woe is the owner who has a horse that was foaled late in the season, because ready or not, the horses are expected to be fit and ready for the sale.

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Extensive renovations made a few years ago, were meant to assure the comfort of both the horses and the people bidding on them. Inside the pavilion, rows of comfortable seats - for which one must make special arrangements to use – provide the perfect vantage point. The public can stand in the back or be in the balcony where they can view the artwork from the Cross Gate Gallery. The pavilion was named after Humphrey S. Finney to honor his work for Fasig-Tipton from the 1930s to the 1960s. Based in Lexington, Kentucky, their Saratoga location was at first, just a satellite office, but grew quickly to become the premier location for a sale that features the best horses in the world. And therefore, it’s not surprising to catch a glimpse of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The ruler of Dubai is an avid horseman and has had a hand in improving horse racing globally. He is good friends with Abdulla Al Habbai, the present owner of FasigTipton. Both men have the best interest of the horse as their top priority. Much thought went into their renovations a few years ago, such as the water wall that was installed outside to help keep the horses calm. Personally… I think the horses stay calm because they sense the comradery and the good spirits of everyone around them. They come together to form a magical, fun-filled night that spreads its special feeling to man and beast alike.

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Royalty

NEXT DOOR

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WRITTEN BY KATEY FREEMAN HOLMES PHOTOS BY BARBARA LIVINGSTON

very summer Saratoga sees its share of celebrities, famous athletes, and the biggest names in the horse racing business. Some years the city is visited by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai. In town, for the Select Yearling Sales in early August, many people don’t realize that the Sheikh has a world class farm that is located adjacent to the backstretch at the Saratoga Race Course! Darley, which is owned by the Sheikh, is part of Godolphin, the largest breeding and racing operation in the world, with farms in Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as other locales around the globe. Few people have been allowed access to this walled kingdom, but beyond its stately iron gates lies a serene verdant paradise.

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History tells us that land was first purchased in 1881 by a financier from New York City; Spencer Trask and his wife Katrina. They named their estate Yaddo. Trask’s father had also acquired land bordering Yaddo and this land he sold to Edward F. Simms in 1920. Simms, who made his money in oil in Louisiana and Texas, was a Kentucky horse breeder and owner. He added a one-mile training track, stables, a trainer’s cottage and a blacksmith shop to the property. In 1930, the Saratoga farm was transferred to John Hay “Jock” Whitney (a member of America’s first family of racing) and Betsey Cushing Roosevelt Whitney. Legend says it occurred during a friendly game of cards. Whitney gave the stables the name of “Greentree” (the name of the Long Island estate of Whitney’s father Payne) and many of the greatest American racehorses of the last century raced under their silks.

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Jock Whitney, a noted philanthropist who had served many causes, including being the President of the Museum of Modern Art, died in 1982. He and his cousin, C.V. Whitney, put up the money to option “Gone with the Wind” for David O. Selznick. When his wife died, the Whitney estate was valued at $700 million – billions by today’s standards. The Whitney family sold the estate in 2000 to Robert McNair; the owner of the NFL team, the Houston Texans. McNair and his wife Janice owned and bred horses under the name Stonerside Stable. As had Trask, Mr. McNair made much of his fortune in the business of electricity, selling Cogen Technologies in 1999. More renovations were made during the McNairs’ stewardship and the barns were leased to leading trainer Bill Mott who conditioned his two-time Horse of the Year, Cigar there. With the expiration of Mott’s lease, the barns were leased to Darley from 2005 through 2008 and, early that year, Darley negotiated the purchase of all 106 acres from the McNairs. Besides the main house, a guest lodge and staff housing, the property today includes two 400foot long barns with 100 stalls and a manager’s office. Special attention was paid to the preservation of historic details including copper and slate roofing, wood framed hay lofts and custom yellow pine wainscoting in the stalls. In

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addition, there is a cathedral ceiling in the main office area with exposed beams, special stalls for washing, customized rubberized floors and drains, and an equine therapy spa. The training track has a new surface of synthetic Polytrack which allows training in any weather. This is to be expected of a man who has an extraordinary interest in the care of his horses. Sheikh Mohammad is a world renown humanitarian and philanthropist. He has many successful business careers with businesses held under two of his holding companies, Dubai World and Dubai Holding. He was present, in the desert in 1968, during the formation of The United Arab Emirates following the British withdrawal from the Trucial at Argoub El Sedira. It’s obvious he is an asset to his country and his people. With his racing stock he took new roads to conditioning racers, such as ‘wintering’ his horses in Dubai, which produced a string of high-profile wins and by 1994, he founded Godolphin. He is known to give his input on both the health and ability of his horses to the trainers he employs. Saratoga is indeed fortunate to have a benevolent horse lover as one of its residents during the summer. It says a lot that the Royalty Next Door is a man who follows up on what he believes, both in racing and in ruling.

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Greatest Horses to Race

A’S

TOP

SARATOG

U GH

at the Spa

WRITTEN BY BRIEN BOUYEA PHOTOS PROVIDED

ne good way to begin a fascinating — and in all likelihood heated — discussion about Thoroughbred racing at Saratoga is by making an attempt to compile a list of the 10 greatest horses to ever run at the fabled Spa.

Opinions on what constitutes greatness will always be subjective and the method by which such a list is determined is as debatable as the list itself. Inevitably, numerous legends — even Hall of Fame members — won’t make the cut. For the purposes of this exercise I have placed the highest priority on how a horse’s accomplishments in Saratoga’s elite races have resonated through the procession of

time, as well as how they relate to a horse’s overall body of work. Therefore, while Rachel Alexandra’s electrifying run in the 2009 Woodward will be marveled at for years to come, it was only one race and not enough to get her on this list. How about Fourstardave? Nope. Although he has his rightful place in Saratoga’s annals, the lovable New York-bred doesn’t even come close to cracking this list. Without further delay, here are my selections for the greatest racehorses to ever rumble over the Spa oval.

1. Native Dancer Undefeated in six starts at Saratoga in 1952 and 1953. Won the Flash, Saratoga Special, Grand Union Hotel and Hopeful stakes as a 2-yearold and added the Travers and Oneonta stakes at 3. Finished his career with 21 wins in 22 starts and was a two-time Horse of the Year.

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2. Man o’ War

Won 20 of 21 career starts and was ranked as the greatest Thoroughbred of the 20th century by The Blood-Horse. At Saratoga, won the United States Hotel, Grand Union Hotel and Hopeful stakes in 1919 and the Travers and Miller stakes in 1920. His record in the Travers stood for 42 years. Man o’ War did suffer his lone — and controversial — defeat at Saratoga, helping the track earn the moniker “Graveyard of Favorites.” In the 1919 Sanford Memorial Stakes, he was supposedly facing the wrong way when the race began and was left at the post. Although he rallied furiously, Man o’ War was beaten by the aptly named Upset.

3. Exterminator

Won the prestigious Saratoga Cup in 1919, 1920, 1921 and 1922, as well as the Merchants’ and Citizens’ Handicap in 1921. In eight seasons of racing, the iron gelding won 50 races, including 33 stakes events. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

4. Kelso

Undefeated in four starts at Saratoga.Won the Whitney Handicap in 1961, 1963 and 1965, becoming only the second horse to win the prestigious race three times. Kelso was named Horse of the Year an unprecedented five consecutive years (1960-64) and won 39 career races. Equicurean | July 2019 | 39

5. Kentucky

In the early days of Saratoga, the mighty Kentucky was the best of the best. He won the inaugural edition of the Travers (the first race contested at Saratoga Race Course in 1864) and followed up by winning the first two runnings of the Saratoga Cup in 1865 and 1866. After losing his second career start, Kentucky won 20 in a row and finished his career with 21 wins in 22 starts.

6. Secretariat Although he would be considerably higher on other lists, Secretariat made only two starts at Saratoga. Both, however, were brilliant.The year before he won the Triple Crown, Secretariat won both the Sanford and Hopeful in record time en route to being named Horse of the Year as a 2-year-old in 1972. He repeated as Horse of the Year during his 1973 Triple Crown campaign and finished his career with 16 wins in 21 starts.

A few others who barely missed the cut: EIGHT THIRTY - Won four stakes (the Wilson, Saratoga, Whitney and Travers) within a month in 1930  40 | Equicurean | July 2019

EQUIPOISE - Won the Wilson and Whitney in 1932, as well as the Wilson and Saratoga Cup in 1933

ROAMER - Won the Saratoga Special, Huron, Travers, Saratoga Cup, Merchants’ and the Saratoga Handicap. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

7. Discovery

8. Regret The first horse to win the Whitney three times and the only one to win it in three consecutive years (1934, 1935, 1936), Discovery was a Saratoga stalwart who also won the Kenner, Wilson, Saratoga Handicap and Merchants’ and Citizens’. He won 27 career races.

10. Whirlaway

9. War Admiral The greatest son of Man o’ War, War Admiral was undefeated in four starts at Saratoga, winning the Wilson, Saratoga Handicap, Whitney and Saratoga Cup. The 1937 Triple Crown winner, War Admiral won 21 of 26 career starts.

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in 1914 she won the Saratoga Special, Sanford and Hopeful as a 2-year-old, competing exclusively against colts, and also won the Saranac at age 3. She remains the lone filly in Saratoga’s history to win those three events for juveniles. Following her Saratoga exploits in 1914, Regret became the first filly to win the Kentucky Derby the following year.

The only Triple Crown winner (1941) to win the Travers, Whirlaway also won the Saratoga Special, Grand Union Hotel, Hopeful and Saranac at Saratoga. A twotime Horse of the Year, Whirlaway finished his career with 32 wins.

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Colleen’s Picks

…for YOUR Saratoga Destination! Hello to all my Saratoga readers from near and far!

Colleen Coleman is the owner of CMC Design Studio LLC and is well noted by her clients for bringing high energy, attention to detail, organization and more to each project. Her collaborative efforts with clients as well as others in the industry translate to a comprehensive design to completion for her clients. Her unique approach to defining each space matured into what she has coined as “Creating Environments for Life™” - Photo by Blackburn Portrait Design

If you are visiting our historical city for this year’s Track Season… “Welcome to Saratoga!!” Our town will be bustling with new faces, old friends, lake dwellers and horse lovers alike! There will be celebrations, family reunions and yes, many jumping for joy as their horse(s) charge across the finish line for the big win! My extended family - young and old - loves to meet at the picnic area annually to take in a day of racing together. Our favorite race day wager is the “Coleman Show Pool.” We conjure up a pot from all parties (…of course only those old enough to bet!) and each person has the responsibility to choose one horse per race. Talk about pressure… as the pool gets bigger, so does the bet! I’ll take my turn first, Thank you! I’m more of a drink mixologist than race analyst – actually - I pick all my horses by their names. Yes, I do! Oh, and I love the long shots! See what I mean… I must take my turn first or we’d all be going home by 2pm! I guess that would leave more time for shopping downtown…which reminds me, let’s see what our local shops in town have for all you racing fans this season!

If you love to serve up the drinks at your gatherings, you have a few stops to make for just the right glass. THE DARK HORSE just released their new Signature Whiskey Glasses. Designed in Scotland, they will ensure an enhanced flavor for your palette as you sip the night away. How so? The shape transition allows the alcohol to escape up the sides so the serious taster may nose the delightful aroma of the spirits within! These precisely crafted glasses are sold individually but, if you buy them in pairs, you will receive a free collector’s box! Two are always better than one!

THE DARK HORSE MERCANTILE 445 Broadway, Saratoga Springs • 518.587.0689 Facebook.com/DarkHorseSaratoga

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If you’re more of a true racetrack beverage lover, you will want to stop in at TOGA HERITAGE, just across the street, for their new Mint Julep Crystal Glass. Embossed with their logo, this delicate glass, with beaded top and bottom detailing, is a perfect addition to your collection of beverage glasses! What is a Mint Julep you ask? And what does it have to do with horse racing? The drink originated in the southern United States around the eighteenth century. It is traditionally made with just four ingredients; a spearmint leaf, bourbon, simple syrup, and crushed ice. It’s associated with drinks in the “smash” family as the mint is muddled to release its essential oils into the served beverage. Customarily, a Mint Julep is held only by the bottom and top edges of the cup (hence the beaded detailing) to allow frost to form on the outside of the cup…I thought I’d throw that in there so you’d look like a Mint Julep Pro when serving them at your next gathering…You’re welcome!

TOGA HERITAGE 398 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.944.8951 • TOGAHERITAGE.COM

Ready to make your first Mint Julep in your new TOGA HERITAGE Crystal Glass? Try this simply… divine summer sipper: You will need: 1⁄4 oz Simple Syrup 8 Mint leaves 2 oz Bourbon Garnish: Bitters & Mint sprig This will be easy: • In your Julep glass, lightly muddle the mint and syrup. • Add the bourbon and pack tightly with crushed ice. • Stir until the cup is frosted on the outside. • Top with more crushed ice to form an ice dome and garnish with a mint sprig and few optional drops of bitters. ENJOY! Did I not tell you I was the mixologist in the family????

Since 1938, the Mint Julep has been the honorary beverage at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby! And there you have it! And don’t leave without picking up one of their Walnut Cutting Boards… Hand crafted locally and of course the TOGA HERITAGE logo is carved at the base! And who doesn’t need a fresh, soil proof apron for all the food prep this year. With three pockets, an adjustable neck strap and tie back, it’s sure to fit any of the helpers in your kitchen!

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Colleen’s Picks

…for YOUR Saratoga Destination!

Just at the top of the stairs, SILVERWOOD HOME & GALLERY has several horse themed selections for any racing enthusiast. A Mixed Media Equine Painting by Tom Myott offers yellowbeige tones mixed with greys and whites…a perfect compliment to any home. Adding this 20” super fine Merino & Cashmere Down Filled Snaffle Bit Pillow to a chair elicits the thought of English riding disciplines such as Dressage or Show Jumping…Classic! If you’re preparing for an event, pick up their Hand-made Stoneware Jockey Antipasti Platter with Dipping Bowl. With enough room for your assortment of meats, cheeses, olives and more, it’s sure to be party pleaser when full or on display!

SILVERWOOD HOME & GALLERY 398 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.583.3600 • SilverwoodGalleries.com

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SILVERWOOD HOME & GALLERY And who could resist collecting these Cast Iron Jockeys on a stand. Each sold separately, they stand between 5-10” tall with a variety of colors to choose from. Great as a gift for visitors or pick up one for each family member!

398 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.583.3600 • SilverwoodGalleries.com

As I finished my stroll down Broadway, I stopped into IMPRESSIONS for a bowl for our new puppy, meet Ana Capri. Isn’t she the cutest! We just love her!

After losing our dog last July, our home has been too quiet… With three boys you wouldn’t think that’s possible, but it is. So, while I was searching for the perfect ceramic pet dish, I discovered this lovely Sophie Alport English Horse Collection. These back to school goodies, including a Backpack, Pencil Case & Notebook, are made of oil skin so they are easy to wash. Great for everyday use too! Other items within this collection are a variety of wallets, satchel bags, picnic blankets, placemats and travel wash bags.They’re too cute to stay around long, so be sure to get into Impressions soon!

IMPRESSIONS OF SARATOGA 368 Broadway, Saratoga Spring 518.587.0666 • ImpressionsSaratoga.com

Enjoy your summer track season my friends! Take time to sip Mint Julep - you have the recipe now! Relax beside the lake or pool, spend time with family & friends and partake in all that our historic town has to offer for the next few months. Be sure to always buy local - when we support each other - we make our community the finest it can be! Until next time my friends,

Colleen Coleman of CMC Design Studio LLC AKBD, CAPS & True Color Expert “Creating Environments for Life” TM Psst…I would love to see how my readers add equine inspiration to their homes! Post your photos on Instagram to @cmcdesignstudiollc #colleenspicks

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Life & Love

AFTER THE TRACK

BY TRACEY BUYCE, EQUESTRIAN AND PHOTOGRAPHER

There is one thing every equestrian has in common - a part of their soul belongs to horses. From the daily rituals of grooming, to moving as one at the canter, horses change you and they challenge you. Horses can bring out the very best in you and empower you to conquer fears and the uncertainties that life presents. They are masters at healing emotional wounds and have an uncanny ability to make you smile with a simple knicker. Horses are extremely patient teachers and the kindest of healers. They have an incredible capacity for forgiveness, while their loyalty and love is boundless. Horse are truly extraordinary. Riding horses is so much more than a hobby or sport, it’s a privilege and one of the world’s greatest joys. It is these qualities that make Thoroughbreds ideally suited for their second careers: New members of loving families. Whether through adoption or purchase, the addition of an Off-Track Thoroughbred (OTTB) brings joy to every equestrian. We had the opportunity to sit down with three local women who all share a common bond; An OTTB is now part of each of their families. They share their experiences with you on the following pages… enjoy. Perhaps a retired Thoroughbred is in your future? saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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LEXI

What motivated you to get a Thoroughbred? Ever since I was little, I remember I wanted my first horse to be an off the track Thoroughbred. They’re incredibly athletic, intelligent, and have an amazing heart. I also grew up being surrounded by the stereotype that Thoroughbreds are crazy, not for kids, and are super dangerous. Naturally, I wanted to step up to the challenge to prove those stereotypes wrong. Thoroughbreds also shape you into an incredibly talented rider. They are super sensitive, and require very refined aids to be ridden correctly. I love the challenge, and learning how to be the best rider I can be! Do you have a background in racing? If not, what is your equine background and what age did you start riding? My parents would take me and my little sister to the track to watch races when we were younger, but otherwise, no, I have no background in racing. When my sister and I were little, my dad would bike us 6 miles down the road to a hunter/jumper facility to see the horses. All I talked about was riding, so we talked to an instructor about lessons.You had to be 6 years old to begin lessons. I started riding on my 6th birthday, and I’ve been hooked on the hunter jumper industry ever since! I love it with a passion, and I’ve competed all the way up to the AA circuit. I also compete in dressage and combined training, and I compete in Varsity Open Huntseat Equitation and Varsity Intermediate Dressage for North Country Horses’ IEA team.

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What does it cost to maintain a Thoroughbred? Is it any different then maintaining a Standardbred horse? When buying a horse directly off the track, there is a let down period required, which is costly and involves little to no riding. However, I bought my horse through a consignment barn in Saugerties, and he had already been let down and had begun training. As for regular care, I can honestly say that Thoroughbred cost less than the warmbloods I used to compete on. My horse only wears regular steel front shoes, and is barefoot behind. He has a great foot quality, and his coat is super easy to keep shiny. All I do is curry, no shine spray required! None of his tack has to be custom made at an extra cost, as he fits into a cob size bridle and wears a size 78 blanket. He is16 hands high and compactly built, so he fits in my two-horse trailer...no extra-wide, extra-tall add ons required! Where did you get your OTTB and have long have you had him/her? I got my OTTB from Thundercrest Performance Horses in Saugerties, NY, about an hour away from me. He was being consigned through Kait Schultz. She does a great job with the OTTBs, and it’s nice that she can give them some professional training off the track. I bought him in July of last year. Do you need to live on a farm, or can anyone adopt a retired race horse? Anyone can have a Thoroughbred, no farm required! I live in a regular suburban neighborhood, and we board Elliott at Trilogy Equestrian in Ballston Spa, NY, about 20 minutes from my house.

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Would you recommend this to everyone, or just people with a horse background? Some Thoroughbreds are naturally beginner friendly, but the majority of them require a quiet, confident, consistent handler off the track. Uneducated, inexperienced people are the ones who ‘ruin’ these horses and label them as crazy, because they fry them. Thoroughbreds are incredibly smart and athletic, and are perfectionists. They get frustrated if you punish them for making mistakes, so patience is of the essence with these athletes. However, I think they are incredibly underrated as show and sport horses. I’ve seen plenty of Thoroughbreds that can outmove and outjump warmbloods, and they have the mentality to try their heart out in any situation. What does being an equestrian mean to you? Being an equestrian means getting up at the crack of dawn to care for your horses, and having the passion to put the horse first. I do all of my own chores, grooming, riding, tacking up, etc. Too often, you see riders-especially juniors- with grooms. Having the horse ready for you and just riding only makes you a rider. Having a bond with your horse and putting in work-both in and out of the saddleare what make you a true equestrian. What is your riding discipline and why? I grew up riding Hunter/Jumper, and I still do. Recently, I’ve added on dressage and combined training, because I’ve realized how beneficial dressage is to both horse and rider. It’s also super fun! What is one of your favorite memories with your OTTB? I have many memories-both in and out of the saddle- that are my favorites. However I think my favorite is when I took him to his first off property event, he was nervous but was trusting me. I was getting him ready to ride when I was eating a granola bar for breakfast. He heard the wrapper, and would not leave me alone until I gave him a piece. It was so funny! The quiet moments we spend together are worth more than any ribbon. What are your short and long term goals with your OTTB? Short term, I’ve been working on my horse’s dressage work in hopes to bring him to his first recognized event this summer. He’s also going to his first horse shows this year, both Hunter/Jumper dressage/combined training. Long term, I’d like to show him in the Thoroughbred hunters, and take him as far as he can go in both the Hunter/Jumper industry, as well as the dressage and combined training world.

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DONENE

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What motivated you to get a Thoroughbred?

What does being an equestrian mean to you?

My love for horses and my responsibility as CC’s breeder and racehorse owner

Being an equestrian means becoming educated as a rider and horsewoman as well as taking full responsibility for the health and well being of my Thoroughbred, placing safety high on the list. An OTTB requires patience and understanding throughout the retraining process and beyond.

Do you have a background in racing? If not, what is your equine background and what age did you start riding? Yes, I have a background in racing in New York and other states What does it cost to maintain a Thoroughbred? Is it any different then maintaining a regular horse? I have found the cost of owning a Thoroughbred to be different than owning a different breed. Where did you get your OTTB and have long have you had him/her? My horse is 11 years old. Since I am his breeder, I have owned him since birth.

What is your riding discipline? Three day eventing. What is one of your favorite memories with your OTTB? I have many “favorite “ memories of CC. One such memory was when he was a weanling at his birth farm and he stood close by quietly observing his peer group compete for carrot treats. Another wonderful memory was when he won his first race.

Do you need to live on a farm, or can anyone adopt a retired race horse?

What are your short and long term goals with your OTTB?

I do not own or live on a farm. I board my horse at an equestrian facility.

My short term goal is to achieve fitness. My long term goal is to keep my horse happy and make him useful and compete in a discipline we enjoy and do well together.

Would you recommend this to everyone, or just people with a horse background? Being a responsible owner of a Thoroughbred is definitely not for everyone.

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ALLY

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What motivated you to purchase a Thoroughbred? I was inspired by the movement of the Thoroughbreds. So many people, including some of the top riders I look up to were retraining these horses to be exactly what I’d dream of owning one day.

Do you need to live on a farm, or can anyone adopt a retired race horse? You do not need to live on a farm to enjoy these great horses. There are many boarding facilities with well educated professionals who can assist with the transition of an off the track Thoroughbred.

Do you have a background in racing? If not, what is your equine background and what age did you start riding?

Would you recommend this to everyone, or just people with a horse background?

Horses have always been a part of my life, they’re like supplemental oxygen to me. My mom and I got our first horse when I was 8. I started out riding western and then I found a love for dressage and eventing. From there I spent many hours in the barn, traveling to shows from NY, to Aiken, SC to KY. I had a Connemara pony named Michan that gave me the confidence I needed to be able to have the Thoroughbreds I do today. Up until I purchased my first OTTB, hanging out with my grandpa at Saratoga Race Course was the extent of my racing background. My grandpa enjoys the track; he himself has owned a few race horses.

I do believe that having horse background is important with these horses as well as horses in general. They are extremely powerful animals and having good horse sense is pivotal for the best relationships. There is plenty of beginner opportunities for those who wish to own a horse one day. With that being said I am a strong believer that there is a Thoroughbred for every level of rider, it's just a matter of taking the time to find the right one for the right job.

What does it cost to maintain a Thoroughbred? Is it any different then maintaining a regular horse? Horses are expensive. Bottomline. The Thoroughbreds are much like us in the sense that some are easy keepers, requiring an average amount of grain/hay and others take a little extra to keep weight on, sometimes requiring more grain, supplements and hay. On average one of my horses goes through 1-2 50lbs bags of grain a week at $20/bag. I have each of mine on joint supplements as well as flax and quality hay. My Thoroughbreds have regular hoof maintenance every 4-6 weeks, costing anywhere between $40-$240 a horse. Where did you get your OTTB and have long have you had him/her? Charlie was purchased from a family in Saratoga who are very involved in polo, but she wasn't fit for the job and they wanted to make sure she found a landing in the perfect situation. Many Thoroughbreds make wonderful polo ponies but Charlie's athleticism and build was perfect for that of a sporthorse career, hence why she was perfect for me and my goals for eventing. Charlie was purchased in November of 2018 and has really developed over a short period of time.

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What does being an equestrian mean to you? Being an equestrian to me means that I get to be a part of something bigger than myself. Being an equestrian has allowed me to discover new depths of myself. It has taught me about patience and hard work. What is your riding discipline and why? I choose to event because it encompasses three disciplines that exhibit how amazing horses are. Dressage being the ballet of the sport, cross country is your adrenaline rush, and show jumping is your speed and accuracy. OTTBs make exceptional eventers and are true ambassadors of the sport. What is one of your favorite memories with your OTTB? My favorite memory with my OTTB was our first show together after only having her for two weeks. At that point I noticed how much heart she had and I knew she was going to be special. What are your short and long term goals with your OTTB? My short term goal is to be able to event with Charlie this summer locally, by the end of the summer I am hoping to step up to beginner novice. My long term goal is to be able to qualify for nationals at beginner novice sometime in the nearer future, perhaps in 2020.

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A Horse by Any Other Name

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The mystery and magic of the Gypsy Vanner WRITTEN BY THERESA ST. JOHN PHOTOS BY TRACEY BUYCE PHOTOGRAPHY

“The essential joy of being with horses is that it brings us in contact with the rare elements of grace, beauty, spirit, and freedom.” ~ Sharon Ralls Lemon

or more than 150 years the breed of horse was revered in Great Britain and Ireland but was relatively unknown to the rest of the world. In 1995, Dennis and Cindy Thompson of Ocala Florida, spotted a stallion with piebald (black and white) markings, an elegant head and very hairy legs, standing in a distant field while driving through the English countryside. Intrigued, they stopped for a closer look. The husband and wife immediately fell in love with the graceful, mysterious equine when they walked up to the fence and watched him come running over to them. They approached the farmer to talk about the horse. He introduced them to the stallion’s owner, a Romani man, who would later invite them to the Appleby Horse Fair in Cumbria, England. Thousands of Gypsy travelers had gathered there for more than 300 years to buy and sell horses. Dennis and Cindy were the first Americans to attend the event. The couple spent the next ten days learning everything they could about the Gypsies and the horses that were bought and sold at the fair. They were especially interested in the black and white stallion and his genetic heritage.

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They were thrilled when the owner announced he was willing to sell the stallion. They would have to wait at least one year while he followed through with his breeding plans for the horse. The Thompsons returned to the states and set about learning everything they could about the Gypsies and the unrecognized breed of horse that was, surprisingly, still unnamed. The Romani’s vision was to breed a horse capable of pulling their caravans. The breed would have to be powerful yet gentle at the same time as it would live with the Gypsy families and be around children much of the time.

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In an attempt to improve the breed shortly after WWII, the Romani Gypsies decided to combine the strength, stamina, hair, and good looks of draft breeds like the Shire, Clydesdale, and Fresian, with the smaller stature and pulling skill of a draft pony. They believed this would be the perfect caravan horse, as it met their goal of a “small Shire with more feather, more color, and a sweeter head.” With the blessing of the Gypsies, the Thompsons named the breed “Gypsy Vanner Horse.” Their stallion’s name was Cushti Bok. The Gypsy Vanner horse has an outstanding disposition. They’re known for their kind and generous personality. Feather (hair on the legs) begins at the knee on the front legs and at or near the hocks on the rear legs. Colors include Piebald (black and white,) Skewbald (brown and white,) Blagdon (solid color with splashes of white on the belly,) or Odd colored (any other color and white.) The Vanner is not a color breed – it’s important to remember it is a body type.

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Robert and Lisa Moser own Carem Stables. They wanted a horse that would be part of the family, easy for their two kids to be around. “Carson is 11 and Emery is 9,” states Lisa. “We needed a horse that was safe for them. We weren’t going to show the horse, or enter it into events. We were looking for one that was docile and kind, a horse that would enjoy hanging out with us here on the farm.” After extensive research, they traveled to Stillwater Farm, a breeder of top quality Gypsy Vanner horses. The farm is located on 50 picturesque acres in the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in the mountains of western North Carolina. They met the Gypsy Vanner Horse and their breeders here.

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The couple purchased their first four horses from the farm – Shandar, Kitty, Emma, and Roy. “They’re very loving. They want to be around us all the time,” Lisa smiles when she says that. “The boys are nicer, while the girls tend to be divas. Shandar is king and Kitty is queen here on the property. Every other horse knows where they stand in the hierarchy.” Today the Moser family owns 13 Gypsy Vanner Horses as well as several other gorgeous horses on the farm. “ We love waking up to these sweet faces each morning. We fall asleep thinking about them at night. They’re our kids - our family, really. Which is exactly how we want it to be.”

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HOW ONE SARATOGA STALLION BECAME...

‘THE BACHELOR’ OF THOROUGHBREDS WRITTEN BY LA SOKOLOWSKI, EQUINISTA PHOTOS PROVIDED

ABC LATE NIGHT HOST Jimmy Kimmel and his wife, Molly McNeary, have predicted five out of six winners on The Bachelor. But we’ll bet they’ve never met one like War Dancer. War Dancer, the multiple Graded Stakes winner and millionaire son of Claiborne Farm’s top international sire War Front (sire of 2019 Preakness winner War of Will), was first offered as a breeding stallion by owners Robin and Tony Malatino of Sugar Plum Farm in 2017. “When I opened my first Thoroughbred stallion directory, which was the size of a phone book, I kept thinking they (the stallions) all look alike,” said Robin Malatino. “We needed a way to brand War Dancer and package him.” Malatino, the former CEO of Saratoga Spring Water, was green to the racehorse business but knew a thing or two about the impact a blue bottle of water could have over a clear one. Her goal here was the same: Set War Dancer apart from the rest of the dark bay Thoroughbred stallions. The couple had purchased their first Thoroughbred in 2003, a Lemon Drop Kid filly from that summer’s Fasig-Tipton yearling sale they went on to name Sugar Plum Girl. She became the namesake of the farm they closed on two years later situated just minutes from the racetrack 60 | Equicurean | July 2019

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and, in 2011, with the help of trainer Kenny McPeek, they returned to the Fasig-Tipton New York Saratoga Select Yearling Sale and purchased a War Front/Deed I Do/Alydeed colt. McPeek, with over 115 stakes wins notched on his cinch (including 2002 Belmont Stakes winner, Saraava), liked what he saw in the lanky colt they named War Dancer, including his lineage to some of the top Thoroughbred stallions of the century, like Danzig, Northern Dancer and Nijinsky II.

to home,” Robin says. “He was a great race horse and now he is one of War Front’s top sons in the world. “Watching foals run their pastures in the morning is spectacular. I get chills thinking how, almost eight years to the day since purchasing him at Fasig-Tipton as a yearling, his own yearlings will be there representing Saratoga this summer.” Follow the Thoroughbred heartthrob on WarDancerStud.com and learn more about the War Dancer Race Club Partnership.

SUGAR PLUM FARM TOUR JULY 27TH Join the National Museum of Racing for a tour of Sugar Plum Farm, a boutique Thoroughbred breeding facility less than a mile from Saratoga Race Course, as part of its ongoing farm tour series. The farm tour includes meeting its horses, including War Dancer (and goats, Thelma and Louise) and a catered lunch. Time: 10:30 a.m. at Sugar Plum Farm, 96 Gilbert Rd, Saratoga Springs. Cost: $25 for Museum members and $30 for nonmembers. Participants receive a free pass to visit the Museum at their convenience. Transportation is not provided. Reservations are required and space is limited. Please call the Museum tour line (518) 584-0400 ext. 120 to reserve a spot or email nmrtours@racingmuseum.net.

After a four-year, million-dollar earning racing career, it was time to announce War Dancer’s first breeding season and social media agency Grand Slam Social hit it out of the park with a marketing blitz that transformed the stallion into America’s Most Eligible Stud, and promised to bring romance back to the breeding shed with video storylines that followed the stallion and his mares through “courtships” inspired by ABC-TV’s The Bachelor. Season One of America’s Most Eligible Stud earned over 1.5 million views as seven mares, including Kristy (the ‘single mom’ from Kentucky) and “bratty” chestnut, Amber, vied for his attention. By Season Two (both available on wardancerstud.com), his romantic escapades had grown into a cast of quirky friends and dramas including War Dancer ‘wingman,’ Belarion; independently-minded goats Thelma and Louise; good-girl mare Stephanie and her not-so-good-girl nemesis, Lucy; and a rose-grey ‘young crush’ filly called Sunshine. The result of two seasons of reality romance and horsey hijinks was War Dancer breeding 200 mares over his first two seasons, including 100 stakes producers and performers. And for every foal born, the Malatinos gifted the mare’s owners with a box of chocolate cigars. This year, the Breeders Cupnominated stallion will stand in Saratoga like a hometown hero, part of the Irish Hill and Dutchess Views Stallions LLC roster at Irish Hill Century Farm just minutes from the racecourse. “We’re excited about having him close

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OLD FRIENDS

AT CABIN CREEK WRITTEN BY JOYCE ANDERSON, VOLUNTEER - OLD FRIENDS AT CABIN CREEK PHOTOS BY CONNIE BUSH

Old Friends at Cabin Creek officially opened in November 2009 when a trailer rolled down our driveway and pulled in front of the barn. The trailer was carrying Moonshadow Gold. Moonie (as he would later be called) was purchased by a caring individual who found him at the track needing a quick home. She knew he would likely end up in the slaughter pipeline. She went with her heart and bought him without a plan of what would come next. She knew she had to save him first and worry about finding him a home second. A few months earlier JoAnn and Mark Pepper reached out to Michael Blowen of Old Friends in Georgetown Kentucky to find out more about the work he was doing with retiring racehorses. They wanted to do something similar at their farm in Saratoga County. They learned that Michael left his career as a film critic to open Old Friends after hearing that racing greats Ferdinand and Exceller had both been slaughtered. He felt compelled to make a difference for as many racehorses as possible. Michael shared his stories about the horses, working with the racing industry and the challenges and rewards of running a non-profit organization. Many conversations gave birth to the idea of pooling their energy, motivation and love of Thoroughbreds by making Mark and JoAnn’s farm the New York satellite of Old Friends. On the day the agreement was signed between Old Friends in Georgetown, Kentucky and Old Friends at Cabin Creek in Greenfield, New York, legendary trainer Bobby Frankel passed away. To honor him, the New York farm was named Old Friends at Cabin Creek, the Bobby Frankel Division Old Friends at Cabin Creek is a 501© 3 organization staffed by a dedicated team of volunteers. The relationship with our Thoroughbreds is deeply personal and intimate.

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They are as familiar to us as family. They represent everything a racehorse can be. A famous winner, a goofy character, thoughtfully retired by an owner, saved from slaughter or recovering from illness or injury. We know their past, their trauma, their hardships, their habits and their quirks. We place hay in strategic spots because we know their dining preferences. We bring warm beet pulp in the winter and freshly sliced carrots and apples. We always have a few mints in our pockets in case someone needs a quick distraction. Many think we are just plain ole nuts but trust me….we are not! Only when you understand the true heart and soul of a Thoroughbred will you understand what we do. We are unconditional care givers. They are sentient creatures and they serve as a beacon of light, educators to racing fans and ambassadors for comprehensive “After Care” programs that all racehorses need once their brief careers have ended. Our work is a labor of love and it endures to the end which is the most difficult part of our commitment. We love each of our horses fully….and in the back of our minds lurks the knowledge that one day we will have to say, “farewell old friend, run free”. We will never abandon or discard them as others have done. We take solace in knowing that their years with us, however long or short that may be, have been the best years of their lives. Each passing slays us and knocks us to our knees. We understand this the natural cycle of life but that does not lessen the sorrow we feel. In the evening we will put our mourning aside and once again load the truck with grain, hay, beet pulp, treats and go out to the pastures. We give each horse a little extra love for they too are grieving the loss of one of their herd. They clearly understand what has happened. Soon we will hear of another racehorse needing safe harbor and we say yes, yes bring them here. We prepare a stall with layers of straw, scrub a bucket, fill it with water, place fresh hay in the corner and wait by the huge double doors of our barn for the trailer to arrive. Just as we did ten years ago, May 2009 waiting for the arrival of Moonshadow Gold. If you would like to celebrate our 10th anniversary, please join us at our annual “After the Race….” cocktail party on August 4th at Saratoga National and our annual “Rock N Roll Party for Retired Racehorses” on August 22nd at Nanola in Malta, NY. We are only able to continue our mission through the donations and support of our friends and fans. The horses look forward to seeing you soon! Our facility is open to the public with guided tours year-round. For open house hours, information about weekly summer events at the farm or to purchase tickets for our annual fundraisers please visit OldFriendsAtCabinCreek.com. Old Friends at Cabin Creek is located at 483 Sand Hill Road,Greenfield, NY. Follow us on Facebook. 64 | Equicurean | July 2019

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S NA P S H OT IN H ISTO RY THE LEGEND OF…

KINCSEM

Foaled: 1874, Record: 54-0-0

hile she may not have the fanfare of Secretariat or the local allure of Funny Cide, Kincsem stands among legends.

The filly, who went unsold on the grounds that she was too common looking, went fifty-four races without a defeat marking her as one of the greatest horses that ever raced. No undefeated throroughbred in recorded history has won even half as many races as the legendary Kinscem. Kincsem's career began in 1876 when she was two years old. She was entered for ten races in ten different places in Germany, winning them all. As a three-year-old she won the Hungarian 2000 Guineas, the Hungarian 1000 Guineas, the Oaks in Budapest, the Austrian Derby, Austrian 2000 Guineas,and the Grosser Preis von Hanover and Grosser Preis von Baden. Two of her victories came by walkover, meaning no competitors were willing to face her, and three more were won by a distance. Her average winning margin in the other races was over four lengths. Her four-year-old campaign was equally successful, beginning with nine straight victories. In 1879, Kincsem turned five but showed no signs of slowing down, winning all twelve starts. Kincsem Park, Hungary's premier race course located in Budapest, is named in her honor. There is a life sized statue of her (pictured on this page) by the entrance to the old grandstand.

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Photo by Sharon Castro

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Flip the magazine over to check out Equicurean | July some other horses in this town. 2019 | 67

THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

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SUMMER 2019 COMPLIMENTARY

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brought to you by...

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THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

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EQUICUREAN

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THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty

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General Manager Robin Mitchell

Graphic Design Marisa Scirocco

Advertising Design Morgan Rook

Advertising Sales Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Becky Kendall

Contributing Writers Polo

Alan Edstrom

Thoroughbred

Joyce Anderson Brien Bouyea Tracey Buyce Colleen Coleman Katey Freeman Holmes Megin Potter Theresa St. John L.A. Sokolowski

Photographers Polo

Dan Heary Johnny Miller Cliff Oliver Image Photo and Events

Thoroughbred

Connie Bush Tracey Buyce Sharon Castro Barbara Livingston @CManchegoPhotos SuperSourceMedia.com NYRA

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Photo by Cliff Oliver and image render by Marisa Scirocco

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EQUICUREAN THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

CONTENTS 7 Welcome to Saratoga Polo 10 Schedule of Events 11 Polo Primer 14 Polo Equipment 17 Fashion 21 Polo Traditions 36 Top Ten 38 Weddings 39 Telescope Casual

Contents photo: Cliff Oliver Cover photo: photos by Cliff Oliver and Johnny Miller, composition by Marisa Scirocco

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WELCOME TO TO

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SARATOGA POLO

Where the Veuve Clicquot is always pouring and the celebration is yours to enjoy!

The season begins July 5th and runs every Friday and Sunday through September 1st.

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SARATOGA POLO

The 2019 Season has upgraded the Clubhouse experience with new table seating on the Veranda Club with full-service dining and field-side lounges. Telescope Casual Winners Circle has been re-designed with food trucks, picnic tables and a trophy stage for a party celebration experience. Guests can also pack a picnic basket and enjoy the evening’s entertainment while tailgating with reserved spaces and NEW Clubhouse tailgating. This family favorite gets you close to the action in a casual setting – even the dog is welcome to attend! Clubhouse seating offers table-side dining options and new casual food truck menus while live announcers and handy guides are always available. Photo by ImagePhotoEvents.com To learn more or buy tickets, go to SaratogaPolo.com.

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olo may be the sport of kings, but at the scenic Whitney Field in Saratoga Springs, Saratoga Polo Association has something to offer everyone.

Located at 2 Bloomfield Road in Saratoga, the 2019 polo season runs every Friday and Sunday July 5th – September 1st. The gates open at 4pm and matches begin at 5:30pm. With over 120 years of history at the local grounds, fans new and old are treated to full panoramic views of the exciting matches and fast-paced action with some of the best polo teams from all over the world.

Photo by Dan Heary

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2019

SARATOGA POLO ASSOCIATION TOURNAMENT SEASON Photo by Cliff Oliver

EVERY FRIDAY AND SUNDAY AT 5:30PM (GATES OPEN AT 4PM) JULY 5 - SEPTEMBER 1, 2019 To Purchase Ticket, visit SaratogaPolo.com July 5 July 7

Celebrate Saratoga Tournament Celebrate Saratoga Tournament BEST POLO POOCH CONTEST!

July 12 The Polo Hall of Fame Tournament July 14 The Polo Hall of Fame Tournament July 19 Veuve Clicquot Challenge Tournament July 21 Veuve Clicquot Challenge Tournament July 26 July 28

The Times Union presents The Mid-Summer Celebration Tournament The Times Union presents The Mid-Summer Celebration Tournament

Aug. 2 The Whitney Cup Tournament Aug. 4 The Whitney Cup Tournament (INDEPENDENT HELICOPTER DELIVERS THE TROPHY TO THE FIELD!) Aug. 9 The Barrantes Cup Tournament The OrthoNY Cup Aug. 11 The Barrantes Cup Tournament Aug. 16 The Ylvisaker Cup Tournament Aug. 18 The Ylvisaker Cup Tournament The Strunk/D’Amico Wedding Cup -Tailgating Decoration Contest! Aug. 23 The Saratoga Special Tournament The Heliin/Amodeo Wedding Cup Tailgating Decoration Contest! Aug. 25 The Saratoga Special Tournament Aug. 30 SPA Anniversary Tournament Sept. 1 The Polo Hall of Fame Tournament Photos by Dan Heary

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POLO PRIMER

A BREAKDOWN OF TERMS YOU’LL HEAR ON A TYPICAL DAY AT THE POLO FIELD PHOTOS BY CLIFF OLIVER UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

MALLET THROW-IN Also known as a “stick.” The shaft is made from a bamboo shoot and the head from either the bamboo root or a hardwood such as maple. These vary in length from 48 to 54 inches and are very flexible in comparison to a golf club or hockey stick.

A chukker begins and many plays resume with the umpire bowling the ball between the two ready teams.

A ceremonial throw-in is done by a guest at the beginning of the match .

Photo by Johnny Miller of OTS Photos

UMPIRES Two mounted umpires (one for each side of the field) consult each other after each infringement and impose a penalty only if they agree. If they do not agree, they ride to the sidelines to confer with the third man, known as the referee.

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NECK SHOT A ball which is hit under the horse’s neck from either side. This is approximately 80 percent of their game.

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Photo by Johnny Miller of OTS Photos

RIDE-OFF

TAIL SHOT

This occurs when two riders make contact and attempt to push each other off the line of the ball to prevent the other from striking. The horses are the ones intended to do the pushing, although a player may use his body but not his elbows.

Hitting the ball behind and across the horse’s rump.

POSITIONS Each of the four team members plays a distinctly different position. Since polo is such a fluid game, the players may momentarily change positions, but they will try and return to their initial assignment. No. 1 is the most forward offensive player. No. 2 is just as offensive, but plays deeper and works harder. No. 3 is the pivot player between offense and defense and tries to turn all plays to offense. No. 4, or the back, is the defensive player whose role is principally to protect the goal

SIDEBOARDS Boards that are 9 to II inches along the sidelines. Sideboards are optional.

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GOAL

Photo by Dan Heary

Anytime a ball crosses the line between the goal posts, it is considered a goal regardless of whether a horse or mallet causes the ball to go through. In order to equalize wind and turf conditions, the teams change sides after every goal scored.

THIRD MAN

Photo by Johnny Miller of OTS Photos

The referee sitting at the sidelines. If and when the two umpires on the field are in disagreement, the third man makes the final decision.

HOOK A player may spoil another’s shot by putting his mallet in the way of the striking player. A cross hook occurs when the player reaches over his opponent’s mount in an attempt to hook; this is considered a foul.

CHUKKER Also called a period. There are six chukkers in a polo game (four in the Arena Polo), each lasting seven and a half minutes. After seven minutes, a bell will sound to indicate 30 seconds remain in the period. At the end of seven and a half minutes of elapsed time, a horn will sound to terminate the period. If the score is tied at the end of last period of play, the game shall be resumed in overtime periods, known as sudden death. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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POLO EQUIPMENT HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHAT IS REQUIRED FOR THE HORSE AND RIDER TO STAY SAFE DURING A POLO MATCH?

HELMET

Just like most contact sports, the helmet is probably the most important part of safety equipment. With the horses moving at an average speed of 4 0 mph and the ball travelling at a top speed of 100 mph, the hard outer shell and cushioned inner layer can prevent head trauma in an unlikely case of an accident.

BROW BAND This band is looped across the forehead to prevent the bridle from slipping backward.

HEADPIECE This is looped over the horse's head and ears to support the bit in the mouth.

REINS The reins are attached to the bit rings.

THROAT LASH Helps to stop the bridle from slipping.

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BALL

Usually made of solid plastic 3 to 3 ½ inches in diameter and 3 ½ to 4 ½ ounces in weight. For many years they were made of wood, but because of their fragile nature, would often split in two.

MALLET

A mallet, usually 49”-54”consists of the shaft, normally made of a flexible, solid, bamboolike wood known as Manau (from the palm family of plants) and the head, made of ash or maple. There is also a strap that goes around the player’s wrist.

POLO WRAPS, SHIN BOOTS & BELL BOOTS

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All of these pieces of equipment protect the lower legs of the horse. Wraps are fabric pieces wound around the lower leg of the horse, and the boots are often leather.

Helps to stop the horse from avoiding the bit.

SADDLE

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BIT

PLAYER KNEE PADS

NOSE BAND

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A metal mouthpiece helps to direct the horse.

PLAITED TAIL

Often made from shock resistant resin and leather.

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PHOTOS BY SUPERSOURCEMEDIA.COM

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Mauve Floral Jumpsuit by Cotton Candy Layers of necklaces and hoop earrings by Five & Two Jewelry Tan Suede Lace Up Heels Laser Cut Pink Crossbody Bag by Moda Luxe

PHOTOS BY SUPERSOURCEMEDIA.COM

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MARK THOMAS MEN'S APPAREL

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POLO TRADITIONS

ll sports have traditions, but few have ones as unique and interactive as the game of Polo. With traditions that bring the spectators onto the field and make them part of the experience, Polo offers something for everyone.

Head out to the Historic Whitney Field this summer for the 121st season at Saratoga Polo and share in the festivities, some old, some new. To help make the most of your visit we have some fun facts and tips about what to expect…

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Photo by Dan Heary

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THE DIVOT STOMP PHOTOS BY CLIFF OLIVER UNLESS OTHERWISE MENTIONED

erhaps the most widely known polo tradition is the ceremonial stomping of the divots. What exactly is a divot? It is a mound of earth that has been torn up by the horses' hooves as they gallop down the field, upwards of 40 miles per hour.

It’s the equivalent of asking the people in the stands at a baseball game to fix the infield during a game. It’s also a great civilized way for people to meet, drink and know that they are helping the match move along safely.

During half-time of a match, spectators are invited to go onto the field not only to help replace the mounds, but to walk about, socialize, and take in the scene.

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THE DIVOT STOMP

Photo by Johnny Miller of OTS Photos

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Photo by Jordan Craig

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TAILGATING

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Photo by Johnny Miller of OTS Photos

here are two distinct sides to the field at Saratoga Polo:

The Clubhouse side, where guests are seated in the shade of a pavilion. There the guests are more likely to get dressed in their finest summer attire, and order food from the wait staff.

And… The Tailgating side where guests pile into a car, pull up to the edge of the field, unpack their chairs, dining room tables, and a smorgasbord of picnic goodies that sometimes rivals the feast at a king’s supper.

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THE TAILGATING TRADITION

at polo is quite different than other sports. Unlike baseball and football where your party is isolated in parking lots, polo lets you stretch out on the green grass and host your party on the edge of the field. You’ll also see a vast spectrum of everything from man-cave inspired meals and Great Gatsby themed picnics, to luaus with costumed party-goers.

At Saratoga Polo, the fans let their imaginations go wild, …And if you want the best of both worlds, come several times, and party on both sides of the field!

Photo by Johnny Miller of OTS Photos

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Photo by Cliff Oliver

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THE SCIENCE OF

SABRAGE

CAUTION! DO NOT TRY THIS ON YOUR OWN WITHOUT THE EXPERT GUIDANCE OF SARATOGA POLO SABRAGE TEACHERS

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fter a polo match, everyone looks forward to celebrating a victory with bottle after bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne, and joy is in the air. But leave it to polo aficionados to focus on a ceremony that combines a little bit of the bubbly with the flair of a sword, and leave it to a strong willed woman, Barbe Nicole Ponsardin – aka Veuve Clicquot, to use this “Sabrage” technique to promote her family’s Champagne in such theatrical style almost two hundred years ago. Over the years, hundreds of polo fans at Whitney Field have experienced the art of the sabrage, but very few have said “Hey, what’s the science behind the sabrage?” Well, here you go… While the sabrage that was done by Madame Clicquot was more of a slicing the top off the bottle, the technique that guests at Saratoga Polo use is a little more nuanced.

The technique that George DuPont and Brenda Lynn from the National Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame taught Saratoga Polo’s Managing Partner Jim Rossi uses an ice cold bottle, the carbonation of the Veuve Clicquot Champagne and the alignment of the sword along the bottle's seam to literally crack the glass and pop the cork.

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THE SCIENCE OF SABRAGE

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Open Skies

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The Place of Legends

Create Your Own History at Saratoga Polo

C SO pOL O AS ™

THANKS TO Our 2019 SpONSOr pArTNerS

Signature Events Historic Whitney Field. Imagine the possibilities.

Ceremonies. Receptions. Rehearsal and Engagement Parties. Call for private showing and availability

(518) 583-4145 S

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Monika & Charles Cronin

info@saratogapolo.com

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C SO pOL O AS ™

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