NYRA launches charitable foundation
by Pat McKenna
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The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced the creation of the NYRA Foundation, a philanthropic effort designed to raise funding and awareness for the work of non-profits, service providers, thoroughbred aftercare groups and charitable organizations connected to horse racing.
Throughout its history, NYRA has dedicated significant resources and made direct investments to support the communities surrounding Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course. In addition, NYRA provides sustaining financial contributions to deepen the impact of the Backstretch Employee Service Team (BEST), the Racetrack Chaplaincy of New York and the Belmont Child Care Association (BCCA), the primary non-profits working in support of New York’s backstretch community.
The NYRA Foundation establishes a pathway for businesses, individuals and organizations to contribute to a variety of worthy endeavors connected to thoroughbred racing in New York State and across the country.
To highlight the expansion of NYRA’s charitable efforts, the NYRA Foundation will host a gala event on Friday, June 7 in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Co-hosted by NYRA Chairman Marc Holliday, all proceeds from the inaugural Belmont Ball will benefit a selection of non-profit organizations active in backstretch services, thoroughbred aftercare and more.
The NYRA Foundation is currently offering Belmont Ball sponsorship opportunities for individuals and businesses interested in supporting the mission. For additional information on available sponsorship opportunities, or to donate to the NYRA Foundation, visit https://nyraf.org/.
“The NYRA Foundation reflects our belief in the importance of service to others,” said David O’Rourke, NYRA President & CEO. “Thanks to Chairman Marc Holliday, and the generosity of our event sponsors, the Belmont Ball will shine a light on the essential and underappreciated work done to support the broader horse racing community.”
The Belmont Stakes Racing Festival will take place at Saratoga Race Course in 2024 to allow for the uninterrupted construction of a new Belmont Park. Highlighted by the 156th edition of the Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 8, the 2024 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival will begin on Thursday, June 6 and continue through Sunday, June 9.
Tickets are currently available for Thursday, Friday and Sunday and may be purchased at Belmontstakes.com/tickets.
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