Equicurean 2021

EQUICUREAN THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

SUMMER 2021 COMPLIMENTARY

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EQUICUREAN THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty General Manager Robin Mitchell Magazine Designer Kacie Cotter-Sacala Advertising Designer Kelsey Sherman Advertising Sales Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Contributing Writers Marion E. Altieri Joyce Anderson Colleen Coleman William G. Gotimer, Jr. Katey Freeman Holmes Megin Potter L.A. Sokolowski Maureen Werther Photographers Connie Bush Sharon Castro Alice Corey Samantha Decker Matt Goins Dan Heary KYDerby.com Georgia Rush Saratoga History Museum SaratogaPhotographer.com Theresa St. John Super Source Media NYRA: Amira Chichakly Chelsea Durand Dom Napolitano Susie Raisher Arianna Spadoni Published by SARATOGA TODAY 2254 Route 50 South Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: 518-581-2480 | fax: 518-581-2487 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com Equicurean is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY, 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 any means without prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright © 2021.

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CONTENTS 6

Going to the Track?

54

Old Friends at Cabin Creek

14

Fasig-Tipton

16

Tom Myott

56

Sophie Doyle: Riding a Winning Race

20

Snapshot From History

22

Betting Over the Centuries

28

History of the Hall

58

SUMMER FASHION: Caroline & Main, Lifestyles, Lucia,Violet's, Pink Paddock, Saratoga Trunk, Union Hall

32 American Pharoah: Conformation

62

Thoroughbred Facts

34

Cocktails for the Ultimate Match Race

64

After the Races

66

Lisa Crawford

38

Stephen Bennett

68

Saying Goodbye

44

Colleen's Picks

70

Dining in Saratoga

50

Greg Harbut: Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

76

Mother Chukkas

EQUICUREAN THE HORSES, THE PEOPLE, THE LIFESTYLE

Photo by Susan Castro

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o t e m o c l e W

SARATOGA RACE COURSE

Going to the Track? Who are we kidding....We know you're going to the track!

It's just 40 days: July 15 - September 6. Don't miss a thing!

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NYRA

Photo by Chelsea Durand, courtesy of NYRA

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Noted 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 through Labor Day each year. The 40-day meet draws the top horses, trainers and owners in the world to try their luck at “The Spa.”

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3

New Hospitality Areas for the 2021 Meet!

Photo by Dan Heary

Spa Verandas at The Top of the Stretch offer modern amenities and casual setting with trackside views.

A reimagining of one of Saratoga’s most popular spots, the Spa Verandas will replace the former Top of the Stretch reserved picnic areas with six new, partially covered sections offering a modern and casual outdoor experience.

Designed to accommodate up to 45 guests each, the Spa Verandas will feature comfortable lounge furniture, mounted televisions, betting machines and private access to the track apron for uninterrupted rail side viewing as the thoroughbreds round the final turn and head for home.

Each package comes with admission and programs. Food and beverage packages may be purchased separately.

Tailgate at the Turn drive-up picnic area to provide new trackside experience for racing fans The all-new Tailgate at the Turn drive-up picnic section will welcome fans to experience a day at the Spa from a casual atmosphere offering a unique vantage point of Thoroughbreds rounding the first turn.

The hospitality area will feature a total of 16 designated picnic areas where parties of up to six fans can drive up to their trackside reserved section overlooking the rail adjacent to the 1863 Club. Fans may bring in their own food and beverage.

In addition to a private picnic table, fans in the Tailgate at the Turn area will enjoy a hospitality tent with large-screen televisions, betting machines and bar service. Each sixperson section must be reserved in full.

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New section at The Stretch to feature 15 new lounge boxes.

As a result of its continued popularity since being introduced during the 2018 season, The Stretch will expand to feature an additional 15 lounge boxes located in Section T of the Grandstand.

The private hospitality area – which is located at the Top of the Stretch – features modern and upscale amenities in a casual environment with outstanding views of thoroughbreds rounding the final turn.

Each lounge box seats four to six guests with comfortable bench seating and access to personal tablets. Ticket holders to The Stretch enjoy exclusive access to a full-service bar, kitchen and concessions, high-definition televisions and video screens, and private restrooms. Fans also enjoy a relaxed dress code at The Stretch. Fans can explore the new section using Saratoga Virtual Venue at NYRA.com/Saratoga.

For additional information, visit NYRA.com/Saratoga

Photo by Amira Chichakly, courtesy of NYRA

BETTING TERMS: Win: Your horse must finish first.

Place: Your horse must finish first or second.

Show: Your horse must finish first, second, or third.

Across the Board: Separate win, place, and show wagers of equal amounts on the same horse.

Exacta (box): Pick the first two horses in the correct order.

Box it and the horses you select can finish in any order.

Trifecta (box): Pick the first three horses in the correct order.

Box it and the horses you select can finish in any order.

Superfecta (box): Pick the first four horses in the correct order. Box it and the horses you select can finish in any order.

“Boxing” your choices in exacta, trifecta, and superfecta bets makes your wager more expensive but allows you to SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

win if your selected horses finish in any order! In addition, adding additional horses to your wagers raises the price of your ticket, but gives you more chances to win.

BETS WITH MULTIPLE RACES Daily Double: Pick the winners of two consecutive races.

Grand Slam: Pick a horse to finish in the top three in three straight races, capped by the winner of the fourth race in the sequence. If there is no show wagering in one of the first three legs, the horse must finish second.

Pick 3: Pick the winners of 3 consecutive races Pick 4: Pick the winners of 4 consecutive races Pick 5: Pick the winners of 5 consecutive races Pick 6: Pick the winners of 6 consecutive races EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021 | 9

Saratoga Race Course’s

SUMMER STAKES

The 40-day meet offers 20 Grade 1s, including seven BC WAYI events; G1 Jockey Club Gold Cup and G1 Flower Bowl to anchor the Closing Weekend!

Featuring 76 stakes worth $21.5 million in total purses. The summer meet will conclude on Monday, September 6.

Racing will be conducted five days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays, with the exception of the final week, when the meet will conclude on Labor Day.

Whitney Stakes 2020. Photo by Dom Napolitano, courtesy of NYRA 10 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

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T

HE 2021 SUMMER MEET, which will offer at least one stakes race every live racing day, will be highlighted by the 152nd renewal of the Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers on August 28 and the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney on August 7, as the anchors of two of the most prestigious racing days in North America.

The Saratoga meet will also include the Grade 1, $1 million Jockey Club Gold Cup and the Grade 1, $600,000 Flower Bowl, both previously run during the fall meet at Belmont Park.

Whitney Day will feature three Grade 1 events, led by the Whitney at 1 1/8 miles offering an automatic berth to the Breeders' Cup Classic on November 6 at Del Mar. Completing the trio of Grade 1s on Whitney Day will be the $500,000 Longines Test for sophomore fillies and the $1 million Saratoga Derby Invitational, the second jewel of the Turf Triple series for sophomore males in its first running with Grade 1 status. Whitney Day will also include the Grade 2, $250,000 Glens Falls for older fillies and mares on turf, and the $120,000 Fasig-Tipton Lure.

Whitney weekend kicks off August 6, with the Grade 2, $200,000 National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame for sophomore turf milers; the Grade 3, $200,000 Troy,

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presented by Horse Racing Ireland, for 4-year-olds and up going 5 ½ furlongs on the turf; and the $120,000 Alydar at nine furlongs for older horses.

Whitney weekend concludes on August 8, with three stakes highlighted by the upgraded Grade 3, $700,000 Saratoga Oaks Invitational, the second leg of the Turf Triple series for sophomore fillies. The August 8 card will also include the Grade 2, $200,000 Adirondack, a 6 1/2-furlong sprint for juvenile fillies, and the $120,000 Fasig-Tipton De La Rose at one mile on turf for older fillies and mares.

New York-breds will take center stage on Friday, August 27, for New York Showcase Day, featuring six stakes for state-breds worth a combined $1.15 million. The lucrative card is headlined by the $250,000 Albany, a nine-furlong test for sophomores. Also featured are a trio of $200,000 stakes in the Fleet Indian for sophomore fillies; the Funny Cide, presented by Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, for juvenile sprinters; and the Seeking the Ante for juvenile filly sprinters. Rounding out a special Empire State-bred slate are a pair of $150,000 turf events with the West Point Handicap presented by Trustco Bank for 3-year-olds and up and the Yaddo for fillies and mares 3-years-old and up.

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Travers Day 2020. Photo by Arianna Spadoni, courtesy of NYRA

The 152nd edition of the Travers is the centerpiece of a blockbuster day of racing on Saturday, August 28. The 2021 Travers Day card will include seven stakes, including six Grade 1 events, offering $4.6 million in total purse money with automatic berths in the Breeders’ Cup to the winner of the Grade 1, $750,000 Sword Dancer [Turf], the Grade 1, $600,000 Personal Ensign [Distaff], and the Grade 1, $500,000 Ballerina [Filly & Mare Sprint].

In addition, the Travers Day card will also include the Grade 1, $600,000 Forego, a seven-furlong sprint for 4-year-olds and upward, and the Grade 1, $500,000 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial for 3-year-olds going seven furlongs. Rounding out the signature day at the Spa is the Grade 2, $400,000 Ballston Spa for turf fillies and mares.

The traditional local prep for the Travers, the Grade 2, $600,000 Jim Dandy, will be held on Saturday, July 31. It will be joined by the Grade 1, $350,000 Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap, a six-furlong sprint for 3-year-olds and up, and the Grade 2, $250,000 Bowling Green at 1 3/8 miles on the turf.

Closing out Jim Dandy weekend on August 1, is the Grade 2, $200,000 Amsterdam for 3-year-olds at 6 ½ furlongs.

Additional upgraded races for the Saratoga summer meet include the previously listed Grade 3, $200,000 Caress, a 5 1/2-furlong turf sprint for older fillies and mares slated for Saturday, July 24, in addition to 20 stakes receiving a $20,000 boost to offer a $120,000 purse.

Saturday, July 24, will also see the Grade 1, $500,000 Coaching Club American Oaks take center stage.

Among the other 20 Grade 1 races at the Spa will be the $150,000 A.P. Smithwick Memorial on July 29, and the 12 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

$150,000 New York Turf Writers Cup on August 26 for steeplechasers; the $600,000 Alabama on Saturday, August 21; and the $500,000 Fourstardave Handicap, a Breeders' Cup qualifier for the Mile, on Saturday, August 14, to be held on the same card as the Grade 2, $200,000 Saratoga Special presented by Miller Lite.

Closing Weekend of the Saratoga meet will feature a pair of Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Win and You’re In events previously held in the fall at Belmont Park with the $1 million Jockey Club Gold Cup [Classic] at 10 furlongs for 3-year-olds and up, and the $600,000 Flower Bowl [Filly and Mare Turf], an 11-furlong turf test for older fillies and mares, to anchor a Saturday, September 4 card that also includes the Grade 2, $250,000 Prioress and the Grade 3, $300,000 Saranac.

To accommodate the Jockey Club Gold Cup and Flower Bowl, the Grade 1, $750,000 Woodward and the Grade 3, $200,000 Fasig-Tipton Waya will move from Saratoga to the Belmont fall meet.

On September 5, 2-year-old fillies will sprint seven furlongs in the Grade 1, $300,000 Spinaway.

Closing Day on Monday, September 6, will feature the Grade 2, $200,000 Bernard Baruch Handicap as well as the prestigious Grade 1, $300,000 Hopeful for 2-year-olds going seven furlongs to conclude the 153rd Saratoga meeting.

Beginning in 2021, the use of Furosemide (Lasix) is prohibited within 48 hours of all stakes races conducted at NYRA tracks.

To view the complete stakes schedule for the 2021 summer meet, visit NYRA.com/stakes.

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FASIG-TIPTON

SINCE 1898

2021 SARATOGA SALES

Photos by Super Source Media

Experience the excitement, tradition, and prestige of “The Spa!” Held during the prestigious Saratoga race meet for nearly 100 years, Saratoga selected yearlings regularly go on to become racing’s next superstars. In 2018, The Saratoga Sale was once again ranked #1 among North American yearling sales by percentage of Grade 1 winners sold and percentage of graded stakes winners sold.

The Saratoga Sale experience is one of the most unique in the Thoroughbred world, offering a rich racing and social scene highlighted by the Fasig-Tipton Festival of Racing.

Yearlings catalogued in The Saratoga Sale have been selected on pedigree and physical conformation by Fasig-Tipton’s respected inspection team.

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THE SARATOGA SALE

NEW YORK BRED YEARLINGS

SARATOGA SPRINGS • AUGUST 9 & 10

SARATOGA SPRINGS • AUGUST 15 & 16

Celebrating 100 Years of the Saratoga Sale!

Join us in celebrating the 100th Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale. For a century, leading buyers from all corners of the globe have gathered at Saratoga to experience the excitement and tradition of America's most prestigious yearling sale.

As the #1 sale for NY Breds, this is where leading buyers come to find the very best of the NY Bred yearling crop. The sale achieved a record sale topper for the fourth year in a row in 2019.

Over the past 5 years...

YEARLINGS SOLD FOR AS MUCH AS $2,000,000 AVERAGE AS HIGH AS $411,459

Over the past 5 years...

YEARLINGS SOLD FOR AS MUCH AS $775,000 AVERAGE AS HIGH AS $107,512 MEDIAN AS HIGH AS $76,000

74 YEARLINGS SOLD FOR $100,000+ IN A SINGLE SALE SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

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Tom Myott:

Colorful Points and Full Circles WRITTEN BY L.A. SOKOLOWSKI, EQUINISTA | PHOTOS PROVIDED

“I want a party happening in my paintings,” says artist Tom Myott and with works in his studio, on exhibit in downtown Saratoga, and enjoyed in private collections, the South Glens Falls native is living up to his word.

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During the summer, he can be found charming pedestrians while spreading joy and paint on a canvas, set up on the sidewalk in front of Silverwood Home and Gallery, Saratoga Olive Oil, or at Congress Park. Preceding the track opening, he heads north into the Adirondacks for inspiration amid the grand prix show-jumping action of the Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows.

“Children love horses to begin with,” he says, recalling his own boyhood encounters with the animals at a farm near

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his family’s upstate home. “When I paint on the street I often have young onlookers. I believe they are just as entranced by the process, and fluidity of applying strokes of color to a canvas, as they are by the subject.

“I enjoy asking a child to take a turn at painting on my canvas! Although they’re usually hesitant at first, it doesn't take a young artist long to wield a paintbrush confidently.

It’s an experience that creates a lasting memory for a child and their parents, and I certainly enjoy it as well.”

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The dots, dashes and circles integral to his style translate into an artful Morse code for communicating with young people. They also bring full circle a very personal chapter from his early days as an artist.

“I knew in elementary school that I wanted to be an artist.

I loved to draw. Bill McCarthy was my strongest influence through [South Glens Falls High] school. He was my art and drawing teacher.”

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With the support and encouragement of his parents, Tom chose to study art education at Buffalo State College, following in his mentor’s footsteps. “[Bill] also graduated from Buffalo State. I was fortunate enough to obtain an art teaching position at my alma mater, so I taught with Bill for 15 years until he retired.” Today, Tom’s Myott Art shares studio space with Bill’s Eastside Pottery in The Shirt Factory in Glens Falls.

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DASHES TO DA VINCI Tom began exploring his professional career as a painter after a few years of teaching, first seeking to define his technique by emulating such painters as modern American conceptual portraitist, Chuck Close, and French postImpressionist, Georges Seurat.

“From an artist’s perspective, Thoroughbred racing is about motion and color. The dots and dashes allow me to create a sense of movement and emotion. This appealed to me more than traditional techniques of blending. I want a party happening in my colorful, expressive paintings!”

His approach to each horse-themed painting is different. “I adjust the medium, technique and style to accommodate what I am looking for. Brush types, size and expression of marks, saturation of colors, and number of subtle layers to apply are a few of the variables I use to control the work.

“I am heavily influenced by [Italian Renaissance artist and sculptor, Leonardo] da Vinci. I love the spontaneity and variety of line quality. I start with a loose, gestural line capturing the essence of the action. I enjoy the work so much at this point that I want to showcase it, not hide it beneath layers of color so I begin applying washes of muted tones over the charcoal sketches. This preserves the integrity of the line and gives it a sophisticated, earthy appearance.”

Racehorses and show horses represent different worlds so Tom too ‘swaps leads’ when it comes to choosing techniques: “For me, the difference is in the relationship

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between the rider and horse. When painting a racing scene, I tend to use a similar technique throughout; I’m not concerned with recognition of a jockey’s facial features. When I paint a hunter/jumper competing, I prefer to adjust my technique to paint enough detail so the rider is recognizable. I use a more traditional, realistic approach in the face and taper my brush strokes into the Impressionist technique of dots and dashes through the rest of the painting.”

FINAL IMPRESSIONS “Painting a single horse is more intimate: I attempt to connect with its personality. When I’m painting a racing scene, I emphasize the tumultuousness of the contest or, conversely, serenity of the paddock.”

As the season opens, he’s grateful to again have a chance to capture all its energy and motion through his brush strokes, and make more memories for families and horse lovers to share.

“There are so many wonderful experiences that I am left with when I am finishing a painting. Every part of the horse show and Thoroughbred racing industries offers an artist the opportunity to portray it in their own way.”

So go ahead, throw a party. Paint the town Thoroughbred.

New original paintings of Thoroughbreds are available as of July 15 at Silverwood Home and Gallery, more work is available for purchase at Saratoga Olive Oil Company. He is accepting commissions, and visits to his Glens Falls studio in The Shirt Factory are available by appointment.

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SNAPSHOT from History A look back at racing history’s thirteen horses that have achieved the Triple Crown: Justify 2018

American Pharoah 2015 Affirmed 1978

Seattle Slew 1977 Secretariat 1973 Citation 1948

Big Red (Secretariat) not only clocked the best cumulative time during his 1973 Triple Crown campaign, but he holds the record time for each of the Triple Crown races — 1:59.40 in the Kentucky Derby, 1:53:00 in the Preakness, and 2:24 in the Belmont.

Assault 1946

Count Fleet 1943 Whirlaway 1941

War Admiral 1937 Omaha 1935

Gallant Fox 1930 Sir Barton 1919

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American Pharoah was the 12th Triple Crown winner in history, and in winning all four races, became the first horse to win the Grand Slam of Thoroughbred racing! Photo

by Susie Raisher, courtesy of NYRA.

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Betting Over the

CENTURIES

Betting windows, 1941.

I

WRITTEN BY WILLIAM G. GOTIMER, JR. | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SARATOGA HISTORY MUSEUM (UNLESS NOTED)

T WASN’T ALWAYS EASY TO BET ON THE HORSES Betting on horses has been a favorite pastime for centuries in many places around the world. Despite changes in almost every facet of life - betting on horses has remained largely the same. Determining the order of finish in a race of spirited horses has always been the pursuit. What has changed over the years is the mechanics of placing a wager.

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Younger race fans have grown up with numerous ways to place a bet; multi-bet teller windows, self-service machines, telephone bets, internet wagering, wagering apps on their phones – all modern methods. Most people are even aware of the old-fashioned bookmaker models highlighted in shows such as Peaky Blinders where bets are transmitted through a series of calls, hand signals and chalk boards (hence the term “chalk” for a race favorite).

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But what about the period between the chalk period and the computer period? Not many remember placing bets in those days from the mid-1930s to the mid-1970s but placing bets required some determination. It was not for the faint hearted.

Much of the routine was driven by technological limitation.

Placing bets and cashing bets needed to be done at separate windows and in fact were done on separate sides of the building. Placing the bet was done at the windows facing the racetrack while cashing was done around the SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

back facing away from the track. A bettor having a losing day without cashing a ticket was said to “never make it the other side.” Winners could be seen rounding the corner to cash tickets while losers remained in place on the front side.

Cashing tickets was done manually as was the math needed to determine your return. Bettors needed to know exactly how much they were due lest an “error,” intentional or accidental, saw them leave some of their winnings behind at the window.

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Betting tickets. Photos provided.

Both betting and cashing were segregated by amount and bet type with each machine capable of only selling one type of ticket. Originally each window only sold one type of ticket e.g. $2 Win tickets, later they could sell different types of the same denomination. A $6 Combo ticket was $2 Win, Place and Show. Exotic bets such as exactas, doubles and triples were sold at separate windows, meaning if you wished to bet a horse to Win and an Exacta in the same race 24 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

you needed to stand in TWO lines. This meant learning how to handicap “on line” not “online” – folding the Racing Form just right so you could stand in line and view past performances was a learned skill. Time between races was needed for standing in line – if you wanted a hot dog or beer you had to hurry – or “gasp,” skip a race (which no one wanted to do because there was no simulcasting from other tracks and only the live races to wager on).

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The tickets produced were of sturdy cardboard and contained the race number, number of the horse, denomination and bet type. Each ticket also had the precursor to the modern “password” with a random listing of four or five letters that would confirm to cashiers that the ticket was from the proper day and race lest someone try to cash counterfeits. In the vernacular of the day, a counterfeit ticket that was in fact cashed was referred to a “pigeon” or bad bird, and the amount erroneously disbursed was deducted directly from the cashier’s salary.

Each denomination was a different color meaning a fistful of losing tickets which were torn up resembled confetti (and was about as valuable). The term “tearing tickets” or “it’s better than tearing them up” came from the difficulty in tearing up the sturdy cardboard losing tickets. After each race, the floor was littered with losing tickets while bettors quickly moved on to the next race.

everyone was prepared, but one novice could slow the line to a crawl. Veteran bettors made sure a novice didn’t make the mistake twice through loud, strong, and pointed criticism.

(To this day I order food at a delicatessen with precision and speed lest I be yelled at by people behind me in line – it is a discipline I wish others had learned.)

For modern bettors who view the above as medieval times, consider this additional fact – THERE WERE NO ATMs – anywhere. That meant coming to Saratoga from downstate for a weekend of racing (particularly when Sunday racing was added) required, great discipline, a large amount of cash or friends who could lend you money.

As I said... it wasn’t for the faint hearted but it developed skills and habits that lasted a lifetime.

It differed slightly at different tracks but in New York the only “exotic” bet was the double and it was only offered once a day – hence the term “Daily Double.” It was offered on races one and two, at special windows. Later a “Late Double” was added making the original term Daily Double (still used on Jeopardy) a bit non-sensical.

When exactas were added, the limitation on machines led to exacta wagering being offered only on races three, five and seven. There were no such things as a “box ticket” but a sharp mutuel clerk knew how to quickly enter the six combinations in a three-horse box or the twelve combinations in a four-horse box. With a less talented clerk the bettor had to call out each separate combination.

When triple betting was introduced, it was offered on only the last race of the day. It was viewed as a gimmick that allowed a last-ditch effort at “getting out” from a losing day. Tickets were sold at separate windows. Unlike other bets which could ONLY be placed on a raceby-race basis, the triple bet was complicated, so windows opened two races before the triple race to give bettors time.

With long lines and limited time between races, bettors had little tolerance for someone who got to the front of the line and dithered through fumbled words, indecision, or not ready cash. A knowledgeable line of bettors could move quickly since SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

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Photo by Sharon Castro

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HISTORY

of the

HALL

CONTENT PROVIDED BY THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF RACING AND HALL OF FAME

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Since 1950, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame has chronicled, honored, and promoted the sport of American thoroughbred racing.

LED BY CORNELIUS VANDERBILT WHITNEY, a group of people prominent within the sport of Thoroughbred racing founded the National Museum of Racing in 1950. The Museum’s location of Saratoga Springs, New York, home of the oldest Thoroughbred racetrack in America, proved to be an ideal setting. On Aug. 6, 1951, amid a great deal of fanfare, the Museum made its public debut in a temporary location at the Canfield Casino in Congress Park.

“The long-range purpose,” Whitney said at the opening in the famous old casino, originally opened by John Morrissey in 1870, “is to build a permanent home for the important memorabilia for the sport whose beginnings in this country antedate by 100 years or more the United States of America.”

Joining Whitney in the founding group that signed the charter for the Museum were Carleton F. Burke, Kenneth K. Burke, John C. Clark, Nelson Dunstan, Donald P. Ross, F. Skiddy von Stade, John Hay Whitney, and George D. Widener, Jr. Also recognized as organizers of the Museum were Francis Dorsey, Spencer Eddy, Howell E. Jackson, Walter M. Jeffords, Robert F. Kelley, Paul Kerr, Addison Mallery, Denis Mansfield, Dr. Charles H. Strub, and Bryce Wing.

The first gift for the Museum project was $5,000 from the Saratoga Association, which owned and operated Saratoga Race Course.

Harold O. Vosburgh, a steward for the Saratoga Association, donated the first piece of memorabilia, a shoe from the legendary horse Lexington.

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The Museum has evolved with the times while staying true to its core concepts — preserving and promoting the history of Thoroughbred racing in America and honoring its most accomplished participants with induction into the Hall of Fame. A major project was completed in 2020, when a dynamic new Hall of Fame and Race Day Gallery opened to the public. The new Hall of Fame includes the immersive signature film “What It Takes: Journey to the Hall of Fame,” which is narrated by iconic broadcaster Bob Costas. The reimagined Hall also features state-of-the-art interactive plaques for all 462 Hall of Fame inductees that include a variety of multimedia content.

“The new Hall of Fame experience is a true game-changer for the Museum. Our sport deserves the best and I believe we now have the greatest sports Hall of Fame in the country,” said John Hendrickson, the Museum’s president. “These are exciting times for the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. This is a vibrant and wonderful sport with a significant history, and we are passionate about honoring that. We will always be looking for new ways to give our guests an exceptional visitor experience that is both entertaining and informative.”

The Museum has grown significantly in size and scope since its founding. After a few years in Congress Park, the Museum moved to a newly constructed facility at 191 Union Avenue, directly across the street from the historic track, in 1955. The Museum now occupies a sprawling building with some 45,000 square feet of space.

C. V. Whitney served as the first president of the Museum from 1950 to 1953. He was followed by Jeffords, 1953 to 1960; Widener, 1960 to 1968; John W. Hanes, 1968 to 1970; Gerard S. Smith, 1970 to 1974; Charles E. Mather II, 1974 to 1982; Whitney Tower, 1982 to 1989; John T. von Stade, 1989 to 2005; Stella F. Thayer, 2005 to 2014; Gretchen Jackson, 2014 to 2017; and Hendrickson, 2017 to present.

The Museum was popular from the beginning.

During its first year of operation at the Canfield Casino in 1951, the Museum attracted more than 8,000 visitors. At the end of 1952, the register showed 11,500 names.

When it was announced the Museum would move out of its original quarters in the Canfield Casino into a structure being built specifically to house it, a Saratoga citizen, James E. Benton, applauded. He sparked some of the impetus toward a Hall of Fame with a letter to journalists Nelson Dunstan and Gene Ward.

He made an eloquent plea, noting that some aspects of Saratoga were changing — the demise of the Grand Union and United States hotels, for example — but that tradition was an important part of the area and racing.

“If a board of turf writers, for instance, were to elect annually to the Hall of Fame one or more jockeys, horses, or trainers, it would be of national importance,” Benton wrote. “An annual special award would be coveted.”

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Photo by Gary Gold

By early 1955, it was announced by Jeffords that the new building would, indeed, include a Hall of Fame. The Museum board had passed the following: “Resolved that the National Museum of Racing create and be custodian of racing’s Hall of Fame and its president be empowered to appoint a committee whose duties it will be to recommend to the board of trustees ways and means of selecting candidates.”

Given that Thoroughbred racing had been a part of life in America since the colonial days, a bit of catching up was needed. It was decided that the first group of Hall of Fame inductees would be comprised of horses which had raced prior to 1900 and jockeys and trainers who were no longer active.

The inaugural class of inductees included the horses Ben Brush, Boston, Domino, Hanover, Hindoo, Kingston, Lexington, Salvator, and Sir Archy; jockeys Laverne Fator, Edward Garrison, Danny Maher, James McLaughlin, Walter Miller, Isaac Murphy, George Odom, Earl Sande, Tod Sloan, Fred Taral, Nash Turner, and George Woolf; and trainers William P. Burch, Thomas Healey, Sam Hildreth, A. J. Joyner, John Rogers, and James Rowe, Sr. Ground was broken for the Museum’s permanent home during the final week of November 1954. The cornerstone was laid the following April and New York Gov. W. Averell Harriman presided over the formal dedication on Aug. 16, during the Saratoga racing season. Harriman spoke briefly prior to the ribbon-cutting ceremony; “Racing must remain as a sport,” he said, “and not as a commercial enterprise. We must maintain the traditions of racing, and Saratoga is rich in such traditions.”

The National Museum of Racing opened to the public on June 2, 1956. The building was designed by New York City architect Augustus Noel. The New York Times’ report on the dedication said the building cost $300,000. In 1957, the first addition, called the Patrons of the Turf Gallery, was completed. More expansion followed. A third wing was SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

added in 1979 and became the home of the Hall of Fame.

Until the mid-l980s, the Museum functioned primarily as a diversified set of galleries and was open only during the summer. The Museum then began evolving into a professionally managed institution. The Board of Trustees raised $6.4 million and hired an English design team experienced with Thoroughbred racing to completely renovate the building and develop historical galleries covering three centuries of racing in America. The renovation took 10 months and the building reopened on July 14, 1988.

Between 1999 and 2000, a major renovation and a 10,000 square-foot expansion of the physical plant costing $18 million improved collections storage and created a changing exhibition space, a curatorial workroom, and a children’s gallery. The story line of the semi-permanent historical galleries also expanded to include 20th century history and current events in racing. Extensive audio and video presentations, as well as interactive exhibits for all ages, were added throughout the Museum.

During the past 15 years, there has been tremendous change in all areas of Museum operations. The unique horse racing simulator was developed and opened to the public in 2006; a new interactive Steeplechase Gallery opened in 2012; the Museum celebrated 150 years of racing at Saratoga with a two-year exhibit that opened in June 2013; in 2016, the Museum opened the Edward P. Evans Gallery, which displays some of the most coveted and prestigious trophies in the history of American racing; and in 2018, the Museum unveiled its renovated interior courtyard, named in honor of C. V. Whitney.

Now in its eighth decade — with a new state-of-the-art Hall of Fame experience to inspire current racing fans and cultivate new ones — the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame continues to thrive as a dynamic and integral part of the sport it celebrates.

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CONFORMATION: More Than Just a Pretty Face

POLL

EAR

WITHERS

JAW

FORELOCK

NECK

EYE

RIBS

BACK

POINT OF HIP

LOIN

BRIDGE OF NOSE

CROUP

DOCK POINT OF BUTTOCK

NOSTRIL

CHEEK

MUZZLE

THROATLATCH MOUTH

THIGH

CHIN SHOULDER

POINT OF SHOULDER

FLANK

ARM

CHEST

HOCK

ELBOW SHEATH

FOREARM

STIFLE

KNEE

GASKIN

CHESTNUT

CANNON FETLOCK PASTERN

CORONET

ERGOT

American Pharoah

HOOF

HEEL

By Georgia Rush / Talk of the Track WRITTEN BY MARION E. ALTIERI

W

hen buyers of Thoroughbreds consider a horse for purchase, one of the key considerations is conformation.

Conformation is the way a horse is physically put together. The bones, muscles and proportions of the animal are the characteristics that ultimately prepare them for their job— that of running quickly with great efficiency. Human beauty is relative—every culture and every individual has standards of beauty that may not jive with those of anyone else.

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Everyone is beautiful to somebody.

This is not the case in the equine world: each breed has standards of beauty. That beauty is not superficial, but rather tied directly at the unconscious level to expectations for the jobs of horses within said breed. Draft horses work hard for a living: they are stocky and muscular, with thick legs and strong backs. Thoroughbreds must be able to run fast, with grace, for grace of movement actually is a factor in the science of winning races.

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Long, elegant strides are the domain of those who win purses, while jackrabbit runners are far-less likely to take the day. This is a most egalitarian concept: a Thoroughbred doesn’t win a race because s/he is liked better by the stewards or race announcer. No one votes on who should win — or the Triple Crown would be achieved every year.

A Thoroughbred must cross the finish line first to win a race.

And just as Fasig-Tipton’s elegant, renovated facilities are both magnificently lovely and serve a very practical purpose—the two concepts are inextricably bound up together—concern for equine conformation also is a matter of form follows function.

Whether a horse’s main function is to run fast in order to win a race or to escape predators in the wild west—its form has been “fearfully and wonderfully made” to accommodate that most basic of instincts.

The machinery that gives a Thoroughbred his locomotion— the self-powered, patterned motion of limbs or other anatomical parts—is vitally essential, from the core. A horse may be appealing to the eye, but if the parts aren’t hung together in a way that facilitates smooth action and a long stride— beauty means nothing.

The legs, hind end, neck, withers and abdomen all must work together like a machine, creating a rhythm that is easily maintained, right ‘til the end of the race. The runners may speed up in the stretch, but the original stride and way of moving of each horse remains essentially the same.

Secretariat, the mighty warrior who won the Belmont— and therefore, the Triple Crown—by an otherworldly 31 lengths—is considered by most to be the most perfectlyconformed Thoroughbred.

The measuring stick for conformation: a perfect square should be formed by its legs, back and distance between the hooves. A distasteful thought, but if you can envision a Thoroughbred with its head cut off at the neck — that squareness, or lack thereof, will be revealed.

Secretariat formed a perfect square, to the naked eye using that yardstick.

Indeed, Secretariat was as perfect as possible, and no doubt, our recent Triple Crown winner, American Pharoah, also will be discussed for his conformation for decades to come. His 5 ½ margin of victory in the Belmont Stakes (by which he won the Triple Crown) made it look easy, and his beautiful conformation had a great deal to do with the Pharoah taking his rightful place in horse racing history books.

American Pharoah’s body had to be built to facilitate acceleration, speed, and ability to defy drag and gravity. These things must work together in harmony— and then, these mechanics of his biology had to work together with his focus, drive and will to win.

Conformation photos aren’t taken of horses until they enter the breeding shed, but Equicurean has acquired this gorgeous, “informal” conformation shot through which we see the mighty warrior in all his buff glory. The depth Even as a foal American Pharoah stood out. Photo by KYDerby.com and breadth of his chest; his long, straight legs and round hind end (the engine) all work together with his Many factors go into the study of conformation: yes, it’s straight back, high withers (shoulders) and long, perfect about musculature; skeletal structure and mass. But it’s the neck to make a running machine that obviously propels way those physical attributes come together with the spirit him forward with power and authority. of the horse—that one unquantifiable factor—that determines Horse sales and races will continue in the months and years the horse’s chances of becoming a champion. Energy must to follow American Pharoah’s Triple Crown win precisely overcome drag, inertia and gravity, and that is achieved by because this is the sport in which hope springs eternal. the mechanical workings of the biological attributes of the There may be another horse out there whose conformation horse. Even the fact that horses are unguligrade—they are comes together with pedigree and attitude to create of a class of animals who walk and run on their toes—is a another Triple Crown winner—and maybe this time, we won’t contributor to the relative perfection of the animal. have to wait 37 years.

Of course, horses lacking excellent conformation have made Conformation will be studied and respected as a key monster names for themselves in the sport: Seabiscuit was factor as long as horsepeople keep hope in their hearts, small, somewhat boney and was over at the knees. The and science on their minds. Conformation is not the only mighty Seattle Slew actually was slew-footed: when he determining factor, but it’s the first that buyers and sellers walked, his right-front hoof turned out. He ran straight as a notice—and the one that has the most clout when doing string, but as soon as he walked back off the track, that right hoof turned and faced East. Both Seabiscuit and Seattle Slew the mathematics of physics, that sweet science that aids and abets the quest to win at this sport that offers more established themselves in the Pantheon of Thoroughbred intangible rewards than any athletic endeavour on Earth. racing, their conformational flaws notwithstanding.

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Country House

United

And They’re Off: Secretariat

Cocktails to Make the Ultimate Match Races WRITTEN BY L.A. SOKOLOWSKI, EQUINISTA | PHOTOS BY SUPER SOURCE MEDIA

A

toast attributed to that most prolific of authors, Anonymous, wishes four blessings: “Older wine. Younger lovers. Faster horses.

More money.” Love and money we’ll leave up to you, but as for cocktails and horsetails, we’re gambling these will break from the gate as oddson favorites. Starting with an ode to the late great Thoroughbred filly, Ruffian…

Secretariat

“As God is my witness, she may be better than Secretariat,” trainer Lucien Lauren said of Claiborne Farm’s Ruffian (Reviewer x Shenanigans x Native Dancer), bred in 1972 by Stuart S. Janney, Jr. and Barbara Phipps Janney of Locust Hill Farm. Nicknamed ‘Sofie the Sofa’ early in her training (her 75-1/2” girth was greater than Secretariat’s), in 1974 she broke her 5.5-furlong maiden at Monmouth by 15 lengths and in track record time. Then set the record (1:08 3/5) for six furlongs at Saratoga in the 83rd Spinaway Stakes, and closed her debut with the Eclipse Award for American Champion Two-Year-Old Filly. Ruffian ran 11 races and won all but her last, a fatal match against 1975 Kentucky Derby winner, Foolish Pleasure, that earned her -- posthumously -- the Eclipse Award for American Champion Three-Year-Old. Toast an unforgettable filly with an unforgettable namesake cocktail or wager on any one of these homebred favorites.

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Adelphi Hotel Morrissey’s Lounge & Bistro 365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs MorrisseysLounge.com 518-678-6000 Ruffian recuerdo joven mezcal, aperol, averna, smoke Covfefe 2019 Eclipse Champion 3 Year Old Filly, Champion Female Sprinter sagamore rye, grapefruit, lime, raspberry-chianti foam Country House 2019 Kentucky Derby winner belvedere, cold brew iced tea, st. germain, lemon, peach United 2020 John Henry Turf Stakes Champion salcombe rose gin, elderflower, coconut, lime

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Covfefe

Ruffian

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Dunning Street Station

Life Is Great

2853 State Route 9, Malta DunningStreetStation.com • 518-587-2000

Secretariat

Life Is Great (in Saratoga) Maiden 2019 colt by Tapiture pick six vodka, muddled papaya & rosé strawberries, blended strawberries & bananas, organic pear & apple juice, club soda, strawberry garnish

Lake Ridge Restaurant

35 Burlington Avenue, Round Lake Lake-Ridge.com • 518-899-6000 Secretariat 1973 Triple Crown champion, 1974 Hall of Fame woodford reserve kentucky bourbon, muddled mint & lemon, elderflower liqueur, club soda, lemon slice garnish in a tall (16 oz.) glass enjoyed through a blue-and-white (Meadow Stable racing colors) straw

Church Belle

Saratoga Rose

Hamlet and Ghost

24 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs HamletAndGhost.com • 518-450-7287 Key to the Mint 1972 Travers Stakes & Whitney Stakes champion russell’s 10-year old bourbon, amaro pasubio, peach liqueur, simple syrup, garnish with mint, orange peel.

15 Church

15 Church Street, Saratoga Springs 15 ChurchRestaurant.com 518-587-1515 Key to the Mint

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Church Belle English racing filly of the 1970s volcan blanco tequila, ancho chile reyes, golden moon kummel, lime, agave

Smoking Gun

Saratoga Rose Granddaughter of 1981 Eclipse Champion,Deputy Minister redemption rye, italicus amaro, orange flower water, absinthe rinse Smoking Gun Calumet son of 2013 Triple Crown hopeful, Oxbow rittenhouse rye, mole and habanero bitters, kahlua on the rocks

Cheers!

AND GOOD LUCK MAKING YOUR OWN ‘MATCH RACES.’ SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

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Stephen Bennett: In a Race to Portray the World WRITTEN BY L.A. SOKOLOWSKI, EQUINISTA | PHOTOS PROVIDED

"American Pharoah" Watercolor on paper, 24x30" by Stephen Bennett

"Be bold and mighty forces will come to your aid,” laughs international portrait artist and Scotia native, Stephen Bennett. “It works!”

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Secretariat painting by Stephen Bennett

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f

"Triple Crown Glory" 48x72” painting by Stephen Bennett

or the better part of two decades, he has lived a life as bold and colorful as his palette, traveling to more than 30 countries to capture the soulful faces and ritual adornments of indigenous peoples, through grand-scale (7’ x 5’ and larger)

portraiture, in an effort to preserve and celebrate

the world’s diversity. He is founder of the nonprofit, Faces of the World, and 18 of his original World Portraits have appeared in a trio of “Indigenous People” postage stamp series produced by the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA).

Constantly sketching the faces of the family, friends and strangers he met growing up, he was further encouraged by Scotia-Glenville High School art teacher, Philip Spaziani, to study painting and color theory in college.

Stephen also studied color in motion at the racetrack, where the raw power of Thoroughbreds galloping down a homestretch spun jockey silks into streaming, psychedelic blurs. “I went to the track a lot when I was younger. I’ve always been attracted to horses for their beauty and wildness. When a racehorse is soaking wet after a bath, every muscle and vein under its skin is as distinct as any human bodybuilder.”

GOOD CARMA Call it bold and mighty forces (or just good karma), but a trip to California five years ago put him on track with 40 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

racing greatness, starting with an invitation from the Thoroughbred aftercare nonprofit group, California Retirement Management Account (CARMA), that has raised millions of dollars to support California Thoroughbred aftercare programs.

No stranger to contributing portraits of dignitaries or celebrities to be used in fundraising (having painted Iman, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Sharon Stone to support the American Foundation for AIDS Research), Bennett was invited to create a painting for the 8th Annual Chips All In CARMA Cares Charity Fundraiser that July at Del Mar Racetrack.

He went all in, painting an eye-popping 48” x 72” mural, Triple Crown Glory, illustrating the triumphant moment when American Pharoah and Victor Espinoza broke a 37year dry spell in horse racing history and won the Triple (Kentucky Derby-Preakness Stakes-Belmont Stakes) Crown.

Inspired by the 20th century commercial renderings of J.D. Leyendecker (mentor of Norman Rockwell), his approach to painting the Triple Crown champions “broke everything down to lines and contours. I wanted to capture speed, movement and action like a finish line photo. The horse [American Pharoah] is still. Everything else is moving behind him.”

“I’d never done anything like it before. It raised $4,000 for CARMA,” he said.

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MANGINO BUICK GMC 1484 SARATOGA ROAD, BALLSTON SPA, NY 12020 SALES: (518) 490-1269 | SERVICE: (518) 490-1272 MANGINOBUICKGMC.COM SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021 | 41

JOCKEYING FOR POSITION In appreciation for his generosity, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club invited Stephen to host his own exhibition that August, Horses and Jockeys, at the track’s entrance. It included reproductions of Triple Crown Glory as well as another original, a 72” x 48” painting, Diamond Paddock, that would later appear as a Pacific Classic poster and program cover.

Stephen Bennett (left) with Victor Espinoza.

“I met more people at that Del Mar art show than I could ever hope to remember,” he said. “But I knew who Victor [Espinoza] was.” The Triple Crown jockey was among the racing fans at the exhibition and, since Bennett knew a little Spanish, the two men struck up a conversation.

“He told me how much he liked it (Diamond Paddock). So I kept telling him how much he should get it.” His bold persistence paid off and the jockey ultimately did purchase the painting for his house in San Diego.

Also at Del Mar that year was Hall of Fame jockey Gary Stevens, who had come out of retirement and ridden Beholder into history as the first mare ever to win Del Mar’s $1 Million TVG Pacific Classic.

“I always had a heroic impression of Gary.

Being a jockey is really dangerous. So I did a portrait of him, just to practice painting, and it sold! So I painted another one and (at Del Mar) a woman walks up – I don’t know who she is – and asks if she can buy it for her husband.

Victor Espinoza portrait by Stephen Bennett

“When she told me she was Gary’s wife the only thing I could say was that I hoped they didn’t mind my using his image!”

To the contrary, after winning his portion of the Pacific Classic’s million-dollar purse, the top jockey indeed purchased the watercolor portrait.

“He loved it,” Stephen said. “I’ve sold a third one since then, too. It’s so cool getting to know horses and riders; to stand at the rail and watch them ride. I can see how addicting racing can be.”

If you let bold and mighty forces carry you, it can be one heck of a ride.

Stephen Bennett is accepting commissions for horse and human portraits, and is available to discuss fundraising ideas with your organization at stephenbennett.us.

"Gary" Watercolor on paper, 24 x 30" by Stephen Bennett 42 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

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Colleen's Picks

Susan Blackburn Photography

A Carefully Curated Selection of HOME DÉCOR ITEMS WRITTEN BY COLLEEN COLEMAN OF CMC DESIGN STUDIO LLC

Oh, the happy days of summer have returned!

Colleen Coleman is the Principal of CMC Design Studio LLC located in Saratoga Springs. With certifications in Kitchen & Bath Design, Aging in Place and True Color Expert, her curated design extends into all areas of her field including new construction, historical and major renovations. Her passion is in designing & customizing hand-crafted cabinets for all areas of the residential market.

I have always loved the warm summer days and cooler evenings of our Saratoga Springs area! I’m sure by now, your pools are hopping, you have planned out your summer in every detail and have your guest list made out down to which days to change the bedding for your next shift of incoming friends! Isn’t it all so exciting!! After a quiet summer last year, this is going to be one to remember! So as always, let’s see what the local shops have in store for you to dress up your outdoor spaces, walls and rainy-day activity tables to some golden charms for the one you left at home for a weekend of folly!

For those of you who are from out of town, many of these shops line “Broadway”, our beloved Downtown, and can be easily shopped on foot. A few are a bit further away but on “Dark Days” at the track (no racing on Monday and Tuesdays), a lovely drive through NY is always something special…and why not look for those mom & pop ice cream stands, or a roadside antique shop that just may have an item you didn’t know you needed to have!

So, let’s go shopping!!

EMBRACE THE RACE 327 Broadway, Saratoga Springs EmbraceTheRace.com | 518.580.4500

Looking for items that speak of the spirit of Saratoga? Look no farther than EMBRACE THE RACE® …Live life in pursuit, always striving yet never settling! As I walked the store, I heard a young man chatting with the owner while he was checking out his purchases. He was a surfer from California and emphatically stated “I walked up and down Broadway a few times and I just couldn’t get your logo out of my head. It reminded me of the ocean, the freedom…the pursuit of each wave!” That is what this shop is all about! And when you visit, be sure to look for their custom crafted Burn Barrel with the EMBRACE THE RACE® laser-cut logo on the side. At night when your barrel is full of life, you too will feel the striving to never settle! Looking for something to bring back to your sweetheart after a weekend with the boys… EMBRACE THE RACE® has a full line of jewelry like these beautifully crafted, Adjustable Length 14k Gold Earrings.

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Did you make out extra well at the track? Well pick yourself up a Set of Beverage Glasses etched with their logo for drinks around the burn barrel! Offered in four different sizes; Classic Ale, Stemless wine, Square Rocks and All-Purpose Stem! I must say, I just adore the Square Rocks glasses! Perfect with our Gin & Tonics around the firepit overlooking the pool! And don’t forget… the lake can be a bit hot these days so grab a cotton, adjustable Baseball Cap to keep the sun off your face while you sail the hours away with friends and family!

EMBRACE THE RACE 327 Broadway, Saratoga Springs EmbraceTheRace.com | 518.580.4500

Just across the street at Impressions, you will find Welcome Porch Boards to greet all your incoming guests! With two designs available, you can have one at the lake house and another at your home in town! Celebrate the races with a “SARATOGA AND THEY’RE OFF” on a painted board or “Welcome” uniquely displayed in white letters on a rustic natural board.

IMPRESSIONS OF SARATOGA 368 Broadway, Saratoga Springs ImpressionsSaratoga.com | 518.587.0666

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Colleen's Picks

Just down the street you will find Silverwood Home & Gallery bustling with a plethora of summer goodies!

Who doesn’t love a little sippy-sip of something smooth by the firepit at night? This Set of Jockey High Ball Glassware is perfect for resting back on your Adirondack chair and gazing at the stars high above the lake. They also come in double old fashioned size - perfect for serving a neat pour of your favorite spirit or gently drizzling it over a singular large ice cube.

And being in Saratoga for the summer, you are sure to capture memorable photos in need of a frame with a nod to horse racing. Black frames fit into any décor… these Equestrian Photo Frames with a nickel accent of a bridle bit are surely going to steer your memories back to summer days of Saratoga!

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

Across the street just a smidge to your right is where you will find Dark Horse, the shop which celebrates Upset’s victory over Man o’War in the Sanford Memorial Stakes at Saratoga Race Course on August 13, 1919.

Yes… right here at the Saratoga Race Track! Look it up some time, it’s a fascinating story of a delayed race, the Starter Mars Cassidy unable to perform his duties due to illness and ending in a victory for the horse who would coin a phrase known throughout all sports… ”What an Upset!” To memorialize this equestrian event, Dark Horse has crafted the "Never Underestimate" Puzzle, depicting Upset in a lithograph design. The 1,000-piece puzzle is a great gift to bring home or carry to the track and assemble between races!

DARK HORSE MERCANTILE 445 Broadway, Saratoga Springs ImpressionsSaratoga.com | 518.587.0689

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A bit north of Broadway, you will find 23rd & Fourth with a collection of fine furniture, lighting and accessories. For this summer, I do believe these are the best Carouse Journals for any occasion! You’ll find a collection including a Guest Journal, Bird Watching, Vacation, Gardening and spirals of pages to remind yourself of your favorite things and what you are grateful for each and every day! And to adorn your desk, fireplace or half bath, don’t forget to pick up one, or all, of these well-suited accessories including a Monogrammed Waste Basket with silver bun feet, a Tissue Box Cover or Matchstick Container with lid.

23 rd [& FOURTH] 130 Excelsior Ave. Ste 106, Saratoga Springs Shop.23rdAndFourth.com | 518.584.3700

Keep going!

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Colleen's Picks 23 rd [& FOURTH] 130 Excelsior Ave. Ste 106, Saratoga Springs Shop.23rdAndFourth.com | 518.584.3700

EQUIS ART GALLERY 15 W Market Street, Red Hook EquisArt.com | 845.758.9432

Need a Serving Tray for drinks, housing summer mail or guest nicknacks? 23rd and Fourth has a wide variety to choose from! And why not add a Hand-Carved Tea Votive Holder to your serving table or outdoor living area. The flicker of a candle seems to quiet a soul…even on evenings of laughter and celebration with friends.

Mix and match the variety they have on hand before they are gone for the season!!

And let’s not forget a sweet summer drive to Equis Art Gallery in Red Hook to acquire artwork from around the world that speaks of all-things horses. On those “Dark Days” of racing, a trek down 87S will find you in a small shop filled with global impressions of equestrian finds. From fine art, equestrian themed gifts, vintage Native American jewelry and gifts, this shop is filled with pieces such as this 20×24" Oil on Gallery Wrapped Canvas “Emerging” by Linda Shantz where she “captures the part…that touches our souls.” It’s the only contemporary art gallery of its kind in the world. Representing over 30 of the best Internationally based Equine artists, “where a white horse is not just white, a black horse is not just black and a beautiful horse is not just pretty.” A worthy trip indeed!!

There is so much to be thankful for this summer season! I do hope you have many opportunities to walk our Broadway streets, dine at our local venues, spend time catching up with family and friends on a blanket at Congress Park and taking in the views from our mountain scapes and lakes. It’s SARATOGA SEASON…back to the track, wagers of fortune and feeding the horses for another day. If you’re not ready… then get your shopping on in all things SARATOGA! Until next time my friends,

Colleen Coleman of CMC Design Studio LLC

AKBD, CAPS & True Color Expert colleen@cmcdesignstudio.net

“Creating Environments for Life” TM 48 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

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“I am Standing on the Shoulders of Giants” That is how Greg Harbut describes the place he has carved out for himself in the world of Thoroughbred racing.

Those giants include a grandfather, a great-grandfather and the legendary

MAN O’ WAR WRITTEN BY MAUREEN WERTHER PHOTOS PROVIDED (UNLESS NOTED)

G

reg Harbut, owner of Harbut Bloodstock Agency, is making a name for himself as an expert in the international Thoroughbred market. At age 32, he has gained a reputation for his canny analysis and prediction of successful racehorses and sires. Harbut specializes in international markets, focusing on top tier breeding stock, racehorse management, and identifying racing talent. Since he began Harbut Bloodstock Agency in

50 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

2011, he has been responsible for the purchase of fifteen Grade 1 winning or producing breeding stock acquisitions.

While Greg’s accomplishments are significant on their own, his back story makes his early career success even more compelling. Greg is the grandson of Tom Harbut, a prominent African American horseman, and the greatgrandson of Will Harbut, best known as groom to the indomitable Man o’ War. SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

Greg Harbut with G1 winner Tell A Kelly.

Photo by Matt Goins.

Tom Harbut grew up caring for the horses and mules at his family’s home in Maddoxtown, Kentucky, eventually going on to work with Thoroughbreds. At one point in his career, he was exercise rider for War Admiral, the fourth winner of the Triple Crown.

Will and Man o’War were inseparable. If a horse could speak, Man o’ War probably would have finished Will’s sentences for him. As it was, Will told the story of the mighty chestnut stallion every day for 20 years to visitors at Faraway Farm, where Man o’ War retired to stud after his historic career.

Tom went on to become Stallion Manager for Henry Guggenheim at Spendthrift Farm In Lexington, Kentucky, and he worked with elite Thoroughbreds associated with Elizabeth Arden and movie producer Louie B. Mayer. He also bred and owned the racehorse, Touch Bar, who participated in the 1962 Kentucky Derby. This was an unheard-of accomplishment for an African American man amidst the volatile and often violent civil rights era.

Will Harbut died on October 3, 1947 after suffering a stroke.

Less than one month later, his faithful companion and soul mate of the past 20 years walked into his stall, laid down and never got up again.

Of course, Tom had already been involved in the world of Thoroughbreds growing up with his father, Will Harbut. For Will, being groom to Man o’ War was the best job of his life. Will, who was one generation removed from slavery and started out with nothing, became known as guardian at the gate to Man o’ War. In 1941, a photograph of Will and Man o’ War graced the cover of the Saturday Evening Post. Of course, it was still the Jim Crow era and the Harbut family was not immune to the indignities suffered by black people. But Will believed in hard work and devotion to one’s faith – qualities his greatgrandson, Greg Harbut, values and lives by today.

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For Greg Harbut, growing up with such towering role models, who accomplished things that were rare for African Americans at the time, inspired Greg to pursue his dreams and continue his family’s legacy.

Greg calls Thoroughbred racing a part of his genetic make-up. His passion for horses and for the sport began when he was a child.

“I knew from an early age that I wanted to spend time with horses, and I consider myself so lucky to be able to earn a living doing something that I love. I am grateful for people like my grandfather and great-grandfather, who paved the way for African Americans to succeed in this industry.”

That doesn’t mean Greg just skipped over the hard stuff.

He has done just about every job there is in Thoroughbred racing, from mucking stalls to walking and exercising horses, to being involved in the selection and breeding process.

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Greg Harbut at the Keeneland Race Track Paddock with clients.

During college, he tried for and was awarded a two-year management-training program to cultivate future leaders in the industry. After the program, Greg spent three years gaining invaluable experience as Director of International Client Development for the Stallion Company.

In 2011, Greg decided to take the leap and go out on his own. He created Harbut Bloodstock Agency and he has never looked back. Greg’s record of successes speaks for itself and he has built a reputation as being a “Mare” man.

Greg looks forward to spending time in Saratoga each summer.

“Being here allows me to see lots of fillies and mares on the track and talk with trainers and future thoroughbred owners.”

Greg is also excited to see the new exhibit, “Man o’ War at 100,” on display at the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame, across the street from the only track where the legendary horse was ever defeated.

“I want to view it all for myself,” said Greg.

For Greg, running Harbut Bloodstock Agency is far more than just a way to earn a living. He is carrying the torch that was lit long before him, by men who made such an impact on the industry and for other African Americans.

Most thrilling for Greg is that he gets to contribute to and build upon the extraordinary legacy begun by his greatgrandfather and his grandfather.

“I think the most exciting part of the story is what is about to happen. I have two legendary men who inspired me 52 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

to pursue a career in the Thoroughbred business. I knew when I made this career decision that it was non-traditional.

But I was called to follow in the footsteps of my family and continue the legacy.”

“To date, it is the best risk I have ever taken. Pursuing my dream led me overseas, where I received first-class Thoroughbred training and education. Since then, I have built my own Thoroughbred agency in my hometown of Lexington, Kentucky. Through hard work, perseverance, and listening to my calling, I have experienced great success at the age of 32.”

As Greg looks to the future, he is excited about a new racing venture of which he is a part.

“The Apotheosis Racing Stable was created and formed in 2017 through my partnership with another well-known horseman, Frank Henson.”

The two men had what Greg calls the first of many partnership commitment meetings in Los Angeles in June, and he said they are both thrilled to see this partnership come to life.

While Greg is rightly proud of his accomplishments in an industry that can be difficult, if not impossible, to succeed in, he always returns to his background and heritage.

“I want people to see who I am and what I am all about. If it weren’t for my forefathers and my mentors, I wouldn’t have stood a chance in this business. If my story inspires one person, then I will have achieved a life-long goal.”

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Mr. Cowboy at Saratoga Race Course

Old Friends at

Cabin Creek

Commentator

WRITTEN BY JOYCE ANDERSON | PHOTOS BY CONNIE BUSH AND SAMANTHA DECKER

The beauty and speed of Thoroughbreds on the track is spell binding to watch. Hoofs pounding, muscles pumping and complete focus on the task at hand. The grace of these magnificent athletes is a sight to behold. However, a racing career represents a small portion of a Thoroughbreds natural life span. So what happens to racehorses once their careers are over? The number of former racehorses in need of an alternative to racing is quite large and the options are few. Some are rehomed as recreational horses, others are retrained for new jobs, some are used for breeding, and many meet a cruel fate. This is where Old Friends at Cabin Creek steps in. Old Friends at Cabin Creek is able to provide a few racehorses a way to retire with dignity receiving stellar care while being educators to the public for the need for Aftercare programs for all former racehorses.

Like so many organizations, Old Friends at Cabin Creek was 54 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

impacted by a lockdown and worldwide pandemic. One day life was normal, and the next morning it was not. We had to immediately develop a plan to continue caring for our horses while keeping them and our volunteers safe.

There was no time for strategic planning or long discussions. We had to hit the ground running and implement our new reality without delay. We imposed protocols and mandates for all our volunteers to follow that far exceeded the recommendations of the CDC, federal and state governments. Volunteers were required to be masked, gloved and socially distanced at all times when they were working at the farm. Procedures such as one person in a paddock at a time, the office or hay room kept everyone safe. Horses were no longer fed treats by hand but in clean buckets only. All shovels, rakes and tools were thoroughly cleaned and disinfected every day.

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Zippy Chippy's 30th Birthday

As time passed, we all gradually got into the rhythm of our new daily routines. Soon an interesting metamorphosis began to unfold. Old Friends at Cabin Creek turned into more than a sanctuary for horses. It also became a sanctuary for our large group of volunteers. The farm was a safe community for all to come to. A place to be out in the crisp fresh air. A place to see your friends (albeit at a distance).

A place to exercise your body, mind and spirit and most importantly a place to have a sense of purpose and routine.

The time spent working at the farm was for many, their only opportunity to get out and safely be among people rather than being stuck at home all day feeling isolated and alone. The horses provided their own unique form of therapy and comfort. Some of our horses have suffered trauma or have been in unsafe and vulnerable situations. It was as if they were saying to us “be brave, stay with us, we will get through this”. We heard them and felt it very clearly.

Perhaps the horses wanted to give something back to their caregivers. Was this a kindness returned?

During the year and a half that our farm was closed to the public, life at Old Friends at Cabin Creek continued. We were devastated with the unexpectedly loss of Travers winner Will’s Way. Overjoyed to welcome stallion Naughty SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

Naughty New Yorker on his way to his new paddock with Rachel Gerik and JoAnn Pepper.

New Yorker, gelding Like Now and enthusiastically celebrated the 30th birthday of legendary Zippy Chippy (he received over 300 cards). Bumps and bruises were tended to, manes and tails were brushed, buckets were scrubbed, hay was stacked and we rumbled on.

Old Friends at Cabin Creek is once again open to the public offering tours every Saturday from 12 to 3 p.m. We will be expanding our open house hours as of July. We are thrilled to announce we are also resuming our annual cocktail party.

Join us on Sunday, August 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Saratoga National Golf Club. Please check our website for updated information.

When you visit Old Friends at Cabin Creek you will have the opportunity to meet our majestic thoroughbreds who so clearly deserve to live their retirement years receiving exceptional care and attention. You will also meet the many volunteers who make that possible regardless of any difficulties or challenges that our ever-changing world presents. Please visit soon. We have missed you!

Old Friends at Cabin Creek is a 501(c)3 organization located at 483 Sand Hill Road Greenfield Center, NY 12833.

For more information about Old Friends at Cabin Creek visit www.oldfriendsatcabincreek.com EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021 | 55

SOPHIE DOYLE

Riding a Winning Race WRITTEN BY KATEY FREEMAN HOLMES | PHOTOS PROVIDED

I

f you were to look down from high above the stratosphere over the southern part of England, you’d see a special place a bit east of Wiltshire and a bit south of Oxfordshire that, over time, has come to be known as The Valley of the Racehorse. Today it is England’s second most notable racing and training site, next to Newmarket. Roughly 1,500 Thoroughbreds reside at 50 different stables in the area. Located here is the village of Lambourn with about 4,000+ residents which can trace its association with racehorses and jumpers, back to the 1700s.

The surrounding land was perfect for conditioning horses, and stables began to spring up quickly.

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It is fitting then that a young female jockey should emerge from that location to come to America and quickly establish herself as one of the up-and-coming bright stars of the sport, male or female. Sophie Doyle was born here in 1987 and spent her childhood around the horses that her mother, the successful Thoroughbred trainer, Jacqui Doyle.

Sophie and her brother James, a very successful jockey in his own right, were immersed in the world of ponies and later horses, beginning when they were about 3 or 4 years of age. Sophie began riding show ponies in county shows with her mother’s guidance and advice. The strong work ethic and sense of responsibility taught to her by her mother was a key factor to her later success.

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By the age of 11 she was put on Thoroughbreds to walk the trails with them to the track then back to the barn. By the age of about 14, she was riding for leading trainer Mick Channon, starting with some of his quieter horses. During the next year, she progressed to riding for a majority of the trainers around the Village of Lambourn with her mother driving her from place to place. In the evening, she and her brother would get calls from trainers to help break their yearlings. They were also expected to help with barn work including mucking out stalls.

During her later teen years she struggled, as most teens do, with figuring out exactly what she wanted to do with her life. Her lifelong close association with horses won out and by 19 she was the leading female apprentice in the U.K. recording 28 victories, working for trainer Jamie Osborne and her mother.

Deciding to try her luck in the United States, she spent a couple of years riding and made the decision to move to the U.S. full time in 2013. After riding at Santa Anita, Hollywood Park and Golden Gate, she decided to go to Kentucky where there were more opportunities to advance her career. Adapting to the American style of riding which involves learning to ride in a position on top of the horse and forward, not hitting the saddle and being more still in the saddle. She says that to ride in America, your legs must be super strong, as you’re not moving at all.

Her first U.S. victory came on Jaz n Tap, a son of Jazil, in 2014 at Churchill Downs. Her first stakes and graded stakes wins were on a dark mare named Fioretti. The mare was known to be hard to deal with, but Sophie had breezed her in the past and developed a special connection with SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

her that enabled her to get her first stakes victory. Other victories followed, including Fioretti’s first Graded Stakes win in the Thoroughbred Club of America Stakes (GII) at Keeneland. Sophie is quick to give the people who support her and work with the horse daily the credit they deserve in achieving her success.

The year 2016 brought Doyle more than 30 wins but also included a serious injury she suffered on May 27 at Churchill Downs. She broke her collar bone in four places and was left with a plate and six screws holding it all in place.

To stay in the public’s eye while she rehabilitated, and through a friend, she got involved in the horse shampoo business selling something called “Dapple Up.” Going out and seeing everybody, and keeping in contact, kept her busy and in the forefront of people’s thoughts. With her recovery, came a second place finish in the Groupie Doll Stakes (GIII) on a filly called Emmajestic.

This year saw her achieve her second graded-stakes victory with Street Band in the $400,000 Twinspiers Fair Ground Oaks which allow her to advance to the Kentucky Oaks, the signature race for three year old fillies.

Street Band was another horse who sometimes had a fiery disposition. In the Oaks she became quite worked up in the paddock and during the long post parade. While generally able to quiet the most restless of racers, that day saw Street Band getting up for a sixth-place finish. Sophie Doyle and Street Band gave it their all. Mike Smith, one of the many jockeys who have helped Sophie, gave her some sage advice by asking her, “When you look back at a race, do you think you rode a winning race?” She believes she did and looks forward to more races on this promising filly.

EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021 | 57

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7

Things You Might Not Know About The Thoroughbred COMPLIMENTS OF IHEARTHORSES.COM

#1 The breed was developed from three stallions.

Every purebred Thoroughbred today can be traced back to just three stallions that were used to as the foundation stock: the Darley Arabian, the Godoplhin Barb (sometimes called the Godoplhin Arabian), and the Byerly Turk.

#2 The foundation mares were all owned by English Kings.

The Royal Mares as they are called, were owned by James I and Charles I of England. These are the mares that were bred to the three foundation stallions to develop the great race horse.

#3 Many of the “Greats” in racing have enlarged hearts.

Secretariat’s heart was 2.5 to 3 times the size of a normal horse’s. It is estimated that it weighed 22 pounds. His triple crown rival, Sham, had a heart that weight 18 pounds. Makes you wonder how big American Pharoah’s heart is, doesn’t it?

#4 Thoroughbreds hold more World Records than any other breed.

This mighty horse knows how to make history. Several Thoroughbreds have long standing World Records including Winning Brew who holds the record for fastest speed achieved by a horse. At two years old she was clocked going 43.97 mph.

#5 There will never be a Secretariat II in the US. The Jockey Club in the United States oversees the naming of all registered Thoroughbreds in the country. They do not allow people to use names of certain famous horses again, including Secretariat. (Of course, someone in another country could register their Thoroughbred, but it seems like a nice tribute to the great ones, doesn’t it?)

#6 They DO come in colors other than brown and gray.

While nearly 90 percent of all the Thoroughbreds registered with The Jockey Club in the United States are variants of brown (bay, dark bay, chestnut, etc.) or gray/roan, they do come in black (very rare) and white (extremely rare). There have even been palomino, buckskin, prelino, smoky black, smoky cream, cremello and spotted Thoroughbreds, though these colors are not recognized by the Club.

#7 Thoroughbreds were created for racing.

Photo courtesy of NYRA. 62 | EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021

While many breeds’ uses have changed over the years, and with some breeds being developed without a clear use in mind, the Thoroughbred has always been all about racing. Horse racing has been around since the 1100s, with the foundation for the Thoroughbred breed beginning around the 1700s in England. They were bred strictly to race “over the flat” and it shows. Today, they are still the world’s premier racer, even though many are used for other sports such as jumping and dressage.

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A Good Bet

Racehorses, even top performers, retire with three-quarters of their life left to live.

What happens to these horses after the races is often a gamble.

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS BY SHARON CASTRO

If you want to make a good bet (consistently) in horse racing, you don’t gamble. You combine information with instinct.

When these same qualities are used to pair-up a trained equine with an enriching second career, it’s almost a sure thing that they will have a good life after the races.

“We combine a horse with the right rider so they get along together. A horse can be a best friend but can also be very competitive and be very successful in a different way,” said Anna Hollander. She is a former exercise rider and assistant trainer who started After the Races, a boutique Thoroughbred retirement program near Saratoga Springs.

TRANSITIONING TO THE NEXT CHAPTER Even before moving to Swedish Hill Farm in 2017 (and starting After the Races there a couple years later) Anna Hollander’s life always included horses.

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She grew up on a 150-acre horse farm in Sweden, then spent 25 years riding and working with horses in highstakes competitive events with other well-known trainers in Saratoga.

In 2002, during her recovery from a crushing accident at Belmont, a friend gave Hollander a grey ex-racehorse. She named the horse Dr. Yelon (after the doctor who saved her life after the accident).

Hollander noticed that Dr. Yelon was a naturally elegant horse who had a mind for dressage, so she began training Dr. Yelon to have a second career as a show horse. It was an endeavor that would launch Hollander into her own next chapter – which now includes After the Races, a charitable mission to transition horses from their lives on the raceway onto the pathways of their future.

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A WORLD OF RICHES

AN EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE

When Anna Hollander whistles, the horses on Swedish Hill Farm come running. Once they are near, they playfully blow air into her face and rest their heads on her shoulder.

In the short time since they were founded, the non-profit After the Races has graduated five horses. Because they don’t yet qualify for financial assistance from national Thoroughbred aftercare organizations or NYRA’s Take the Lead program, they rely completely on personal donations and fundraising support.

“Horses have a language that is silent but is pretty strong when you know them,” said After the Races secretary Sandra Galvin. Like Hollander, and After the Races board members Roger Horgan, Kelly Neaton, and Shirley Jerkens, Galvin is invested in these horses’ long-term well-being.

“We really stress not allowing the horses to just go anywhere after being with us. We feel like it is a gift that we are able to take them on and that they are successful once they leave.”

The quiet fields of Swedish Hill Farm afford them a new lease on life.

TENDER LOVING CARE The horses in Hollander’s care are nurtured throughout their stay on this boutique farm. By keeping the number of horses limited to 10 or less, Hollander is able to lavish them with attention.

They are fed a top-notch recipe of hay, grass, and grain (dressed with the warming comfort of cooked oats on cold winter days) supplemented with a steady supply of sweet peppermint candies.

Gradually, they are acclimated to life after the races. First, they are turned out into a small paddock, then to a larger one. They are given time on their own before being joined by a friend, and eventually, the whole herd.

“In everything you do, you have to be patient and keep them calm. I am riding them when they have enough trust. I am very willing to accommodate to what they need,” said Hollander.

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It costs between $500-$600/month to feed each horse in After the Races. This doesn’t include blacksmithing and the veterinary fees that are common additional considerations that must be taken into account.

By donating to After the Races, patrons become a member of the club, one comprised of people who have long histories in the racing world, and who are using their experience to better the lives of the racehorses they’ve come to love.

The Swedish Hill Farm horse barn is open by appointment to those interested in meeting and interacting with the horses one-on-one. Hollander even operates an Airbnb and private spa on the property for those looking to extend their visit into a full retreat.

“People love the serenity here and being able to come and see the horses. Some people have never seen or touched a horse before they came to Saratoga. Plenty of people know horses, but plenty don’t,” said Galvin.

To see their accommodations and amenities, go to swedishhillfarmandspa.com MARK YOUR CALENDAR: On August 22nd, when you dine at Bailey’s Café, 37 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, jockeys will be bartending, and 20 percent of the proceeds will go towards supporting After the Races.

For details and more information, follow them on Facebook, Instagram and visit aftertheracesny.com EQUICUREAN | JULY/AUGUST 2021 | 65

Meet Lisa Craw�ord A Woman Making Strides in Harness Racing

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY SUPER SOURCE MEDIA

L

isa Crawford is making strides for change, as the newly appointed Associate Judge of live harness racing at the Saratoga Harness Track.

“In years past there have been few female judges in harness racing, however, this is evolving. Eight of the 17 employees here are women, and five of them are in supervisory roles. I am very thankful for the opportunity to become a racing official and be so involved in this industry.”

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GROOMING TIPS A GIRL SHOULD KNOW When Crawford was a child, she never imagined she’d become a role model for women in the equine world, she just knew she loved and wanted to work with animals.

When Lisa was around nine years old, she remembers walking two miles every Sunday in her cowgirl boots to a local farm with a $5 bill clutched in her hand to pay for a ride on a Shetland pony named Pumpernickel.

As a teenager, Lisa took English riding instruction and showed competitively in hunter seat jumping. Time spent with her father was always with horses and her first job in the industry was as a hot walker at the flat track. For 16 years, she worked as a veterinary technician and Practice Manager at Adirondack Veterinary Clinic and is certified in equine massage.

Four years ago, Lisa started to work her way up to her current position. She moved from being a recording judge, to a paddock judge, became an assistant to the presiding judge, and now has been serving as a USTA licensed associate judge for the last six months.

“There’s a lot of components to judging harness racing, a lot of equipment, state rules and regulations. Our job is to look out for the betting public, the wellbeing of the horses, and the drivers. It takes three sets of eyes to see everything,” she said.

A RUSH OF RESPECT Harness racing, has traditionally not been known for being especially receptive to women, but times are changing…

Lisa finds her career path exciting and gratifying.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working and training with some of New York’s top presiding judges and have found my colleagues to be very respectful, supportive and helpful. I am very appreciative of their guidance and encouragement, which has been invaluable. I have worked hard to accomplish my goal to become an official and I’m proud of myself for doing so. I don’t think people give themselves enough credit for their accomplishments – for fear of looking vain. I love this job and take it very seriously.”

Seeing women with a prominent role in the nightly goings-on at the track should make it a more comfortable place for other women to be. “I would love to see more women officials in the sport. I feel we can offer a renewed spirit and interest in Harness Racing. I’m hoping I can help pave the way for other women and continue to preserve the integrity of harness racing in New York State.”

With her signature beaming smile, Lisa adds, “I believe the future longevity of harness racing will be bright due to the continued efforts of the wonderful people that make up this sport and the strong heart and soul of the Standardbred competitors.”

Experience a night of racing under the lights... it’s electrifying!

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Saying HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum died on March 24th, 2021, leaving a long legacy of horse breeding and racing in both Thoroughbred world and that of Arabian horses. His Shadwell farms in Kentucky and the UK raised the profile of Arabian race horses in the western world, and was champion flat (racing) owner in the United Kingdom nine times, including just last year (2020). His prowess wasn’t just on the lawns in England: his beautiful Invasor won the 2006 Breeders’ Cup Classic and 2007 Dubai World Cup; Jazil prevailed in the 2006 Belmont Stakes and Almutawakel won the day in the 1999 Dubai World Cup. In 2012, Sheikh Hamdan commissioned a new trophy for the Shadwell Mile at Keeneland: the trophy is a falcon, modeled after his favorite raptor, Nayef. Few horse owners can lay claim to over four decades of passionate involvement such as that enjoyed by His Highness, Sheikh Hamdan. American and international horse racing have lost a bold advocate, friend and involved owner, breeder, and horse lover.

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Goodbye Rick Porter American owner and breeder, Rick Porter, succumbed after a long medical battle last month.

With $32 million in career winnings, Porter seemed to have a magic formula for breeding and racing some of the world’s greatest horses, especially fillies. His Havre de Grace, Round Pond and Songbird were shining stars, while his colt, Hard Spun, came in a game second in the 2007 Kentucky Derby, giving Porter his closest run at the historic race.

Porter’s Fox Hill Farm was known as a place of serene beauty and nurturing for the horses who raced under Porter’s watchful, loving eye. An obituary of Rick Porter would be incomplete without mention of his treasured Eight Belles, who died tragically on the track at the 2008 Kentucky Derby. (Porter was criticized for entering a filly in the Derby, an unwarranted criticism. Fillies and colts have equal prowess and talents; Eight Belles earned her way into the Kentucky Derby. Porter’s response to her death was grief, not remorse – for he had no reason to repent.) Porter died at age 80 in Christiana, Delaware, just down the road from his birthplace, Wilmington. American horse racing has lost a much-beloved member of the community. Rick Porter was a gentleman of great grace and generosity of spirit, he will be sorely missed.

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Photo by Theresa St. John

Restaurant Guide FAMILY-FRIENDLY & CASUAL DINING 13 North Restaurant 2955 Route 9, Malta (518) 400-1746 13NorthRestaurant.com

The Brickyard Tavern 70 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa (518) 884-2570 TheBrickyardTavern.com

550 Waterfront Restaurant 550 Union Avenue, Saratoga (518) 886-8654 550Waterfront.com

Caffé Lena 47 Phila Street, Saratoga (518) 583-0022 CaffeLena.com

Andy’s Adirondack Grille 2872 US 9, Malta (518) 580-1269 AndysAdkGrille.com

Carson’s Woodside Tavern 57 State Route 9P, Malta (518) 584-9791 CarsonsWoodside.com

Bailey’s Café 37 Phila Street, Saratoga (518) 583-6060 BaileysCafe.com

Catherine’s in the Park 58 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga (518) 583-4657 SaratogaSpaGolf.com *Seasonal, pool side dining 11 a.m. to dusk.

The Barrelhouse 68 Beekman Street, Saratoga (518) 871-1502 Facebook.com/ barrelhousesaratoga

Clark’s Steakhouse 120 Broad Street, Schuylerville (518) 695-2073 ClarksSteakhouse.com

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Dock Brown’s 511 NY-9P, Saratoga (518) 306-4897 BrownsBeachResort.com/ Dock-Browns

Ripe Tomato 2721 Route 9, Ballston Spa (518) 581-1530 RipeTomato.com Scallion’s Restaurant 44 Lake Avenue, Saratoga (518) 584-0192 ScallionsSaratoga.com

Farmer’s Daughter 882 Route 2, Saratoga (518) 584-8562 FarmersDaughtersDriveIn.com

The Great American Grill (inside Hilton Garden Inn) 125 South Broadway, Saratoga (518) 587-1500

Greenhouse Chopped Salad Co. 33 Railroad Place, Saratoga (518) 540-1036 EatGreenHouse.com Harvest & Hearth 251 B County Route 67, Saratoga (518) 587-1900 HarvestAndHearth.com Lakeside Farms & Cider Mill 336 Schauber Road Ballston Lake (518) 399-8359 LakesideFarmsCiderMill.com

Winslow’s 801 Saratoga Road, Gansevoort (518) 584-2489 WinslowsSaratoga.com The Whitehouse Restaurant 93-95 Milton Avenue Ballston Spa (518) 885-6797 WhitehouseNY.com

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PUBS & SPORTS BARS PLEASE CHECK WEBSITES FOR UPDATES

Henry's Tavern

Photos by SaratogaPhotographer.com

Racing City Brewing Co.

Photo by Theresa St. John

PUBS 9 Maple Avenue 9 Maple Avenue, Saratoga (518) 587-7759 9MapleAve.com The Barrelhouse 68 Beekman Street, Saratoga (518) 871-1502 Facebook.com/ barrelhousesaratoga Bentley’s Tavern 4 Hemphill Place, Malta (518) 899-4300 MyFavoriteTaverns.com Brickyard Tavern 70 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa (518) 884-2570 TheBrickyardTavern.com Druther’s 381 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 306-5275 DruthersBrewing.com Dunning Street Station 2853 State Route 9, Malta (518) 587-2000 DunningStreetStation.com Fortunes 25 Nelson Avenue, Saratoga (518) 581-5790 SaratogaCasino.com

Gaffney’s 16 Caroline Street, Saratoga (518) 587-7359 GaffneysRestaurant.com

Parting Glass 40-42 Lake Avenue, Saratoga (518) 583-1916 PartingGlassPub.com

The Rusty Nail 1781 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 371-9875 MyFavoriteTaverns.com

Hamlet & Ghost Cocktail Bar 24 Caroline Street, Saratoga (518) 450-7287 HamletAndGhost.com

Pint Sized 489 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 583-7468 WeArePintSized.com

Harvey’s Restaurant & Bar 14 Phila Street, Saratoga (518) 583-0003 HarveysPub.com

Publik House Pub Routes 9 & 9P, Malta (518) 587-7479 PublikHouse.net

The Side Room Bar & Cocktail Parlor The Inn at Saratoga 231 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 583-1890 TheInnAtSaratoga.com

Henry Street Taproom 86 Henry Street, Saratoga (518) 886-8938 HenryStreetTaproom.com

Spa City Tap & Barrel 13 Caroline Street, Saratoga (518) 330-2426 SpaCityTapAndBarrel.com

Henry’s Tavern 19 Front Street, Ballston Spa (518) 309-3584 HenryIrishTavern.com

The Factory Eatery 20 Prospect Street Suite 111, Ballston Spa (518) 885-0500 TheFactoryEatery.com

Horseshoe Inn 1 Gridley Avenue, Saratoga (518) 886-8086 TheHorseshoeInn.com King’s Tavern 241 Union Avenue, Saratoga (518) 581-7090 Nashville of Saratoga 39 Phila Street, Saratoga (518) 909-NASH NashvilleofSaratoga.com

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SPORTS BARS

The Local Pub & Teahouse 142 Grand Avenue, Saratoga (518) 587-7256 TheLocalPubAndTeahouse.com The Mill on Round Lake 2121 Route 9, Round Lake (518) 899-5253 MyFavoriteTaverns.com

Dango’s Fitzgerald Irish Steak 38 Caroline Street, Saratoga (518) 587-2022 The Endzone Sports Pub and Restaurant 227 Park Avenue, Mechanicville (518) 664-0063 TheEndzoneSportsPub.com End Zone Sports Pub 32 Ballston Avenue, Saratoga (518) 584-6460 saratogastrikezone.com/ End-Zone-Sports-Pub Saratoga Stadium 389 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 226-4437 SaratogaStadium.com West Side Sports Bar & Grill 112 Congress St, #201, Saratoga (518) 691-0193 TheWestSideSportsBar.com

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SPECIALTY RESTAURANTS PLEASE CHECK WEBSITES FOR UPDATES

Wheatfield's

Fish at Lake 30

Photo by Theresa St. John

Photo by Alice Corey

AMERICAN

JAPANESE

FINE DINING

Bookmakers at Holiday Inn 232 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 584-4550 SaratogaHI.com Breakfast buffet during racing season

Azuma Sushi Bistro 2452 U.S. 9 #109, Malta (518) 663-6888 AzumaSushiMalta.com

Boca Bistro (Spanish) 384 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 682-2800 BocaBistro.com

Kinjo Japanese Steakhouse 68 Congress Street, Saratoga (518) 587-8888 KinjoSaratoga.com

Diamond Club Grill Embassy Suites by Hilton 86 Congress Street, Saratoga (518) 886-1111

Phila Fusion 54 Phila Street, Saratoga (518) 226-0400 PhilaFusion.com

The Inn at Saratoga 231 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 583-1890 TheInnAtSaratoga.com

Sushi Thai Garden 44-46 Phila Street, Saratoga (518) 580-0900 SushiThaiGarden.com

Jacob & Anthony’s American Grill 38 High Rock, Saratoga (518) 871-1600 Marrellorc.com

Wasabi All You Can Eat 63 Putnam Street, Saratoga (518) 450-1092 WasabiSaratoga.com

Lake Ridge 35 Burlington Ave, Round Lake (518) 889-6000 Lake-Ridge.com

FARM TO TABLE

Longfellow’s Restaurant 500 Union Avenue, Saratoga (518) 587-0108 Longfellows.com

Brook Tavern 139 Union Avenue, Saratoga (518) 871-1473 TheBrookTavern.com Cock ‘n’ Bull 5342 Parkis Mills Road, Galway (518) 882-6962 TheCocknBull.com Morton’s The Steakhouse 342 Jefferson Street, Saratoga (518) 682-5999 Mortons.com

ASIAN, FUSION AND CHINESE Bua Thai Sushi 1103 Ellsworth Boulevard, Malta (518) 788-8898 BuaThaiSushi.com/Malta Duo Modern Japanese 175 South Broadway, Saratoga (518) 580-8881 Duo-Japanese.com Kraverie 78 Beekman Street, Saratoga (518) 450-7423 kraveriesaratoga.com Osaka Sushi House 3084-6 Route 50, Wilton (518) 290-7271 JapanseFoodSaratogaNY.com

Mouzon House 1 York Street, Saratoga (518) 226-0014 MouzonHouse.com Next Door Kitchen and Bar 51 Front Street, Ballston Spa (518) 309-3249 EatDinnerNextDoor.com Wheatfields 440 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 587-0534 54 Crossing Blvd, Clifton Park (518) 383-4444 Wheatfields.com

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Max London’s Restaurant 466 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 587-0505 MaxLondonsResturaunt.com The Mercantile Kitchen & Bar 430 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 886-8479 TheMercSaratoga.com Morrissey's - The Adelphi Hotel 365 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 678-6000 TheAdelphiHotel.com/dine/ morrisseys

Olde Bryan Inn 123 Maple Avenue, Saratoga (518) 587-2990 OldeBryanInn.com Prime @ Saratoga National 458 Union Avenue, Saratoga (518) 583-4653 GolfSaratoga.com/Dining Putnam's Restaurant – Gideon Putnam Resort 24 Gideon Putnam Rd, Saratoga (518) 226-4125 GideonPutnam.com Salt & Char 353 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 450-7500 SaltAndChar.com Siro’s 168 Lincoln Avenue, Saratoga (518) 584-4030 Sperry’s 30 1/2 Caroline Street, Saratoga (518) 584-9618 SperrysRestaurant.com Thirsty Owl 184 S Broadway, Saratoga (518) 587-9694 Wine Bar 417 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 584-8777 TheWineBarOfSaratoga.com The Wishing Well 745 Saratoga Road, Wilton (518) 584-7640 WishingWellRestaurant.com

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Cantina

Photo by Theresa St. John

Salt and Char

Photo by Alice Corey

FRENCH Chez Pierre Restaurant 979 Route 9, Gansevoort (518) 793-3350 ChezPierreRestaurant.com

INDIAN Karavalli Regional Cuisine of India 47 Caroline Street, Saratoga (518) 580-1144 KaravalliSaratoga.com Little India 60 Court Street, Saratoga (518) 583-4151 SaratogaLittleIndiaRestaurant.com

IRISH Harvey’s Irish Restaurant & Bar 14 Phila Street, Saratoga (518) 583-0003 HarveysPub.com Parting Glass 40-42 Lake Avenue, Saratoga (518) 583-1916 PartingGlassPub.com

ITALIAN Augie’s Restaurant 17 Low Street, Ballston Spa (518) 884-8600 AugiesRestaurant.com Augie’s Family Style Italian To-Go 223 Lake Avenue, Saratoga (518) 580-8646 AugiesToGo.com Bellini Italian Eatery 19 Clifton Country Rd, Clifton Park (518) 348-2090 Marrellorc.com

Chianti Il Ristorante 18 Division Street, Saratoga (518) 580-0025 ChiantiRistorante.com

Villago 175 Lake Road, Ballston Lake (518) 280-0311 VillagoPizzeria.com

Forno Tuscano Bistro 541 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 581-2401 FornoBistro.com

MEXICAN

Mama Mia’s Pizza 185 Ballston Avenue, Saratoga (518) 583-7783 MamaMiasSaratoga.com Nove 707 Route 9, Wilton (518) 583-8877 NoveSaratoga.com Osteria Danny 26 Henry Street, Saratoga (518) 423-7022 OsteriaDanny.com Panza’s Restaurant 129 S Broadway, Saratoga (518) 584-6882 PanzasRestaurant.com Pennell’s Restaurant 284 Jefferson Street, Saratoga (518) 583-2423 PennellsRestaurant.com Solevo Kitchen and Social 55 Phila Street, Saratoga (518) 450-7094 SolevoKitchenAndSocial.com Three Vines Bistro & Bar 32A Congress Plaza, Saratoga (518) 306-5881 ThreeVinesBistro.com Village Pizzeria 2727 Route 29, Middle Grove (518) 882-9431 VillagePizzeria.com

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Amigo’s Cantina 42 Ferry Street, Schuylerville (518) 695-9595 AmigosCantina.net Cantina 408 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 587-5577 CantinaSaratoga.com El Mexicano 208 South Broadway, Saratoga (518) 226-0105 ElMexicanoRestaurant.com Esperanto 4 Caroline Street, Saratoga (518) 587-4236 EsperantoSaratoga.com Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant 2100 Doubleday Ave, Ballston Spa (518) 490-2058 MiCasaNewYork.com Mexican Connection 41 Nelson Avenue, Saratoga (518) 584-4466 MexConx.com Sunset Café 42 Front Street, Ballston Spa (518) 885-8550 SunsetGrill42.com

SEAFOOD Eddie F's Eatery 119 Clinton Street, Saratoga (518) 450-7830 Fish at 30 Lake 30 Lake Avenue, Saratoga (518) 539-3474 30Lake.com

SOUTHERN/BBQ Dizzy Chicken Rotisserie 102 Congress Street, Saratoga (518) 583-4099 DizzyChickenRotisserie.com Hattie’s Chicken Shack 45 Phila Street, Saratoga (518) 584-4790 3057 Route 50, Wilton Plaza, Saratoga (518) 226-0000 HattiesRestaurant.com The Kettle Restaurant 445 Church Street, Saratoga (518) 584-9734 TheKettleRestaurant.com PJ’s BAR-B-QSA 1 Kaydeross Avenue West Saratoga (518) 583-2445 | (518) 583-7427 PJsBarBQsa.com

VEGETARIAN Core Life Eatery 11 Clifton Country Road Clifton Park (518) 836-5651 CoreLifeEatery.com Thorn + Roots 46 Marion Avenue, Saratoga (518) 430-2892 thornandroots.com

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DELI, PIZZA & TAKE-OUT PLEASE CHECK WEBSITES FOR UPDATES

Photos by SaratogaPhotographer.com

Villago

Villago

DELI Fat Paulie’s Deli 92 Congress Street, Saratoga (518) 581-5918 FatPaulies.com Healthy Living Market & Cafe 3065 Route 50, Saratoga (518) 306-4900 HealthyLivingMarket.com/ Saratoga Just Meats at DeLucia's Market 2858 U.S. 9, Ballston Spa (518) 584-7969 JustMeatsDeli.com (check their website for other locations!)

The Little Market at Five Points 42 Park Place, Saratoga 518-450-7068 TheLittleMarket5.com

Russell’s Deli 303 Milton Avenue, (Route 50), Ballston Spa (518) 885-DELI (3354) RussellsDeli.com Simply Food by Maura 666 U.S. Route 9, Wilton (518) 584-1000 SimplyFoodByMaura.com Spring Street Deli & Pizzeria 132 Spring Street, Saratoga (518) 584-0994 SpringStreetDeli.net Sweet Lou's 161 Broad Street, Schuylerville (518) 507-6013

PIZZA 9 Miles East Farm Pizza 136 Goff Road, Schuylerville (518) 514-8106 9MilesEast.com

Pierogi Shoppe Foley Lane, Saratoga Order through Door Dash

Amore Pizza 265 Main Street, Corinth (518) 654-9991 AmoreItalyPizza.com

Putnam Market 431 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 587-3663 PutnamMarket.com

BWP 70 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga (518) 763-2975 | (518) 763-2323 BeerWinePizza.com

Roma Foods & Market 222 Washington St, Saratoga (518) 587-6004 RomaFoods.com

D’Andrea’s Pizza 33 Caroline Street, Saratoga (518) 584-3632 654 Saratoga Road, Wilton (518) 583-3781 DandreasPizza.com

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Gennarro's Pizza 46 Marion Avenue, Saratoga (518) 584-1900 GennarrosSaratoga.com

Taverna Novo 62 Beekman St., Saratoga (518) 886-1680 TavernaNovo.com

Harvest & Hearth 251B County Route 67, Saratoga (518) 587-1900 HarvestAndHearth.com

Three Vines Bistro & Bar 32A Congress Plaza, Saratoga (518) 306-5881 ThreeVinesBistro.com

Mama Mia’s Pizza 185 Ballston Avenue, Saratoga (518) 583-7783 MamaMiasSaratoga.com

Village Pizzeria 2727 Route 29, Middle Grove (518) 882-9431 VillagePizzeria.com

Marino’s Pizza 46 West Circular Street, Saratoga (518) 584-3030

Villago 175 Lake Road, Ballston Lake (518) 280-0311 VillagoPizzeria.com/home

Pizza 7 7 Caroline St., Saratoga (518) 580-2000 SaratogaPizza7.com Pizza Nook 3775 Lewis Road, Ballston Spa (518) 885-1800 JustinsPizzaNY.com Pizza Works 54 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa (518) 885-0669 722 Saratoga Road, Burnt Hills (518) 399-9494 PizzaWorks.org Pope’s Pizza 232 Washington St., Saratoga (518) 587-1643 PopesPizza.com

West Avenue Pizza 99 West Avenue, Saratoga (518) 581-9999 WestAvePizzeria.com

CHINESE TAKE-OUT Bamboo CookHouse 388 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 581-9000 bamboocookhouse.com Great Tang's 127 Ballston Ave, Saratoga (518)583-8866 GreatTangs.m988.com Sunny Wok 3084 NY-50, Saratoga (518) 583-8888 Lucky Peking Chinese 66 E Congress Street, Saratoga (518) 584-8371 SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

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Getting Real with Some

Mother Chukkas WRITTEN BY L.A. SOKOLOWSKI, EQUINISTA | PHOTOS BY SUPER SOURCE MEDIA

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P

olo is all about playing it forward. About leaning in to send the ball ahead to your teammate in a fearless chain of unison toward a common goal. For the last two years, local ‘ladies of a certain age’ have met at Saratoga Polo School, at Patagonia Farm on Brickhouse Road in Stillwater, to lift mallets, spirits and hearts in weekly matches and lessons led by professional polo player, U.S. Polo Association-certified instructor, and Saratoga Polo School founder, Mario Dino Di Salvo.

From an Appaloosa cutting horse rider to a retired Armée de l’Air (French Air Force) veteran, these equestriennes have

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dubbed their all-girl power polo team, the Mother Chukkas.

But don’t let the name intimidate you. This unified force of feminine energy sees polo as more than a match. It’s about nurturing what still stands for good sportsmanship on and off a field, because, win or lose, in polo everyone shakes hands at the end.

“Every group has different goals,” says Mario, who structures his lesson programs for all ages, stages and skill sets.

“Some want to learn and improve, but also need the fun part. Others are competitive and want to ride and play to improve as quickly as possible. Each is fun to teach, and makes the lessons, and the game, enjoyable.”

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WHETHER YOU'RE HERE FOR A WEEKEND OR A LIFETIME

MOTHERS OF RE-INVENTION “Polo? It is the hardest sport on earth! I was athletic all my life, including running a marathon and jumping out of airplanes, but being on a horse, with a mallet? That’s a totally crazy challenge, especially at 64 years old,” laughs Chris Kohn, of Saratoga Springs and Wellington (FL), who was in the French Air Force for 22 years before taking her military retirement to marry husband, Richard, in 1997.

“I started riding, but inconsistently, when I met my husband. I started polo last summer because the ‘girls’ (and Mario) encouraged me. What I love about being a Mother Chukka is how everyone is fun, easygoing and very compassionate, as I am not a good rider!

“After your fifties, it gets easier to relax and have fun,” she says. “We’re more confident and better at making -- and taking -- friends as they are, the good and bad. Nobody is perfect in this world.”

Seretha Anderson, 59, of Saratoga Springs and Tampa (FL), jokes that making contact with like-minded women is still easier than making contact with a mallet, but the former cutting horse and barrel racing rider is “totally hooked” on polo.

“I love our group,” she says. “Mary [Flaherty, another Mother Chukka], introduced me three years ago. We have diverse backgrounds but with a common thread, the love of riding and learning the game, and having fun.”

Seretha grew up on a 90-acre farm in eastern Tennessee, competing her Appaloosa, Apache, but once a career and family moved in (she and husband Peter have been married 30 years), riding took a backseat. “I think the key to meeting people at this age is do it while doing something you love. The challenge of the sport pulls us closer and we laugh a lot. My husband and kids think my being a Mother Chukka is pretty awesome.”

Local News Never Looked this Good!

LOCAL • INDEPENDENT • FREE Volume 15

•

Issue 27

•

July 9 – July 15, 2021

•

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

•

518- 581-2480

•

THEY’RE OFF AT SARATOGA… Opening Day: July 15 The Meet Runs through September 6 General Admission Tickets Available The Finest Racing In the World pg. 36 2021 Stake Action pg. 37 Excitement on the Back Stretch pg. 38 Gearing Up For Opening Day pg. 40 Week One Events pg. 42 Photo by Susie Raisher, courtesy of NYRA.

See Details pg. 35-43

Wilton & Greenfield Above & Beyond Challenge is Back Shared Services =

Taxpayer Savings

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

Photo provided by Laura Greenaway. See Story pg. 46

WILTON — Visualize the scene: One group of people engage their machinery and their tools, then tend to a task that takes them up to the boundary line of their domain. Once completed, they pack up their machinery and their tools and go home. At some later point, a second group

of people engage their machinery and their tools, then tend to a task that takes them up to the boundary line of their domain. Once completed, they pack up their machinery and their tools and they go home.

The prospect of border municipalities engaging in the practice of Shared Services suggests there may be a better way.

See Story pg. 12

NEED US TO TELL YOUR STORY? Life by Design When planning looks more like living.

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL 2020 | 1

2254 Route 50 South Saratoga Springs NY 12866 518-581-2480 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Local Saratogian Mary Flaherty, 58, had no riding experience before starting polo lessons eight years ago with Mario. “I learned to ride and play at the same time. A friend who knew Mario had asked if I wanted to learn and I jumped on the opportunity. What could be more fun than riding a horse and playing a game?

“I love being part of the Mother Chukkas, because we are all in different stages of life. Not only do we talk about the game but about life in general,” she adds with a laugh.

“We like to talk!”

Schuylerville pony hunter trainer Laurie Scott, 52, had watched high goal polo matches in Wellington but had no idea that polo was something she could participate in, too: “I could ride a horse well, but had never held a mallet, or played any team sport in my life. I took my first lesson [in 2019] with Mario, Mary, and Seretha and was addicted. We play for fun but are driven to improve. We practice drills together and take lessons from Mario.

“My favorite Mario quote, during one of our lessons, was ‘There are four of you here but I think five people are actually talking!’ I guess we were a little boisterous that day and,” she winks, “every day.”

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Appreciation for their instructor certainly unifies this polo team.

“We call him our Son of a Mother Chukka,” says Laurie, whose daughters (ages 17 and 20) also enjoy the team’s play on words. “We aren’t a ‘No Boys Allowed’ club. Anyone can be a Mother Chukka! I came from the horse show world, where people are incredibly competitive and not in a good way. Mario has so much knowledge about how to play the game, and how to play safely. He has

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horses that match every level, and knows when you’re ready to move up and be challenged. He can explain the most complicated parts of playing in ways that are very easy to understand.”

She added, “I don’t have the best hand-to-eye coordination, so I miss the ball. And I’m not super strong, so my hits don’t always go as far as I’d like. But my riding skill comes in handy when it comes to defense. I can bump players to keep them from hitting the ball and that part is a lot of fun!”

Seretha calls Mario simply the best.

“His patience, encouragement, and approach to teaching have made it so fun and easy to do this.”

Chris learned to ride when she met her husband and regrets she didn’t take up polo back then, too, but having known Mario, for the better part of 20 years, from the Florida and international polo circuits, she firmly believes, “He is exceptional at finding the best and safest horse to fit you, and will have you thinking this game is easy!”

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PLAY HARD, GET REAL In truth, the harder the game, the more tender a heart for the ponies who faithfully carry their riders forward to a goal. Earlier this spring, a little bit of the Mother Chukkas’ hearts broke when it came time to say good-bye to one of its oldest and staunchest fourlegged teammates.

In his day, Mister had been one of the country’s top polo ponies, and the chestnut gelding had amply enjoyed the golden years of his retirement, his patchy coat gently groomed by SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM

Mary Flaherty as he gummed his beet pulp mashes. The ladies who loved him compared him to The Velveteen Rabbit, and when it was time to tell Mister good-bye, they teamed up to give Mary and the school a framed excerpt from the children’s classic by Margery Williams. It hangs now, on the wall inside the barn, among the horses that were Mister’s herd:

shabby. But these things don’t matter at all, because once you are Real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.”

“It doesn’t happen all at once,” said the Skin Horse. “Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very

Watch or tailgate at a weekly polo match or learn to ride and play polo yourself at Saratoga Polo School, saratogapoloschool.org.

“We’ve been working hard to turn the farm into an ideal place for ponies to live and for players to come and enjoy themselves,” says Mario. For his Saratoga Polo School and its Mother Chukkahs, that’s as Real as it gets.

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