Courtesy Saratoga Casino Hotel
Harness racing resumed on Thursday, June 18, at Saratoga Casino Hotel in Saratoga Springs, but no spectators are allowed at the track due to state guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fans can wager remotely on the races through Saratoga Casino Hotel’s online wagering platform, SaratogaBets.com, or on any other New York State approved online waging platform.
The casino remains closed and is awaiting further guidance from the state regarding a reopen date for the entire property.
Following the directive outlined by the state Gaming Commission and the state Department of Health, Saratoga Casino Hotel developed new policies and procedures to reduce the risk of a COVID-19 outbreak and ensure the safety of employees, horsemen, and horses, officials said.
“We’re very excited to resume our 79th season of racing here at the historic Spa Oval, and are particularly happy that our horsemen will be able to get back to the sport they love after a time that’s been difficult for so many,” said John Matarazzo, director of racing operations at Saratoga Casino Hotel. “We’d like to extend a special thank you to the Gaming Commission and the Department of Health for making this possible.”
He said races will run two days a week, every Thursday and Sunday with a noon post time. On all race dates throughout June and July, SaratogaBets will be offering a 5 percent bonus on all winning Saratoga Harness wagers, as well as double the money back on program purchases.
These bonuses are in addition to up to 5 percent in daily or weekly player reward payouts regularly offered to SaratogaBets account holders. To open a new account to wager on tracks from around the world, go to SaratogaBets.com.
Saratoga Casino Hotel, located on Crescent Avenue features slots, a 117-room luxury hotel, electronic table games, Vapor, Morton’s The Steakhouse, casual dining restaurant, three full-service bars including a sports bar, deli and a variety of guest services including valet parking and coat check.