NYRA Announces 2020 Saratoga Racing Calendar

"The changes we made to the 2019 season received an overwhelmingly positive response from our horsemen, fans and the community. We asked the local and racing communities for their feedback to these changes following the conclusion of the meet. Given their support, and to maintain consistency and stability for our fans and stakeholders, we will conduct a similar racing schedule in 2020," said NYRA CEO & President Dave O'Rourke in a release.

The decision to keep the days the same was supported by the local community as well.

"We assembled a group representing local hotels, restaurants, retailers and entertainment and recreation destinations to meet with NYRA following the summer meet." said Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce President Todd Shimkus. "By the end of the discussion, everyone understood why two dark days is best going forward and agreed that keeping those two days consistent with this past summer offers the best chance to attract more visitors. We appreciate NYRA's collaboration with our local hospitality partners to make a decision in the best interest of the community,"

The 5 day a week racing calendar was also supported by the Saratoga advisory board.

"We appreciate the constructive and ongoing dialogue with NYRA and enthusiastically support the five-day racing schedule moving forward," said Saratoga Race Course Local Advisory Board Chairman Joseph A. Torani. "Nothing is more important to the local economy than Saratoga Race Course, and we look forward to the continued success of thoroughbred racing at the Spa."