Jump Start participants will be treated to a cocktail party Saturday evening at the National Museum of Racing and a Sunday luncheon in the Clubhouse Terrace dining room, and will receive valet parking, premier clubhouse box seats, paddock passes and other VIP amenities. There are three levels of participation ($5,000 for "North Broadway" -- a package for eight people; $2,000 for "Broadway" -- a package for four; $1,000 for "Union Avenue" -- a package for two) and 75 percent of the contribution is tax-deductible as a charitable donation.
"We have created an event within an event," said Lou Raffetto, the NSA's chief executive officer. "The idea is to boost the racing program, showcase steeplechasing, generate some additional local interest and -- of course -- raise money for two great charities. Longterm, we could adapt this model to other racetracks around the country. We are excited about this."
Proceeds from the Jump Start program will benefit the National Steeplechase Foundation and the Wesley Foundation. Based in Fair Hill, Md., the former helps fund the growth and development of American steeplechase racing through initiatives that support safety, rules enforcement, amateur racing and promotion. Based in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., the Wesley Foundation raises funds in support of the Wesley Community. The Wesley Community specializes in developing facilities and programs to meet the needs of the aging and chronically ill through residential and health-oriented services.
"The National Steeplechase Foundation is proud to be associated with the Saratoga Jump Start and we look forward to it being another Saratoga tradition," said Sam Slater, president of the foundation. "It's a great way to start the Saratoga season, and gives us a chance to reach out to a new audience."
"The Wesley Foundation is pleased to have an opportunity to partner with the National Steeplechase Foundation for this unique event," said Tim Mabee, Wesley Foundation board president. "We look forward to a fun-filled day that benefits both charities."
Like always, general admission to Saratoga Race Course is free on Open House Day, and there will be vendor tents, music, handicapping seminars and other events scheduled throughout the day.
SARATOGA OPEN HOUSE -- Sunday, July 20
• $25,000 Sport of Kings maiden hurdle
• $25,000 Sport of Queens filly/mare hurdle
• $25,000 Sport of Kings maiden hurdle
• $25,000 Sport of Kings claiming hurdle
• Training flat race on the turf (Saratoga steeplechase-eligible horses)
Post time for the first race is 2 p.m.
SARATOGA STEEPLECHASE SCHEDULE
Thursday, July 24: $68,000 optional allowance/claiming hurdle
Thursday, July 31: $70,000 Jonathan Kiser novice hurdle stakes
Thursday, Aug. 7: $80,000-added A.P. Smithwick Memorial hurdle stakes (Gr. II)
Thursday, Aug. 14: $68,000 optional allowance/claiming hurdle
Thursday, Aug. 21: $70,000 Michael G. Walsh novice hurdle stakes
Wednesday, Aug. 27: $70,000 optional allowance/claiming hurdle
Thursday, Aug. 28: $150,000-added New York Turf Writers Cup (Gr. I)