|
|
Saratoga to host retirement party for Funny Cide Champion and dual classic winner FUNNY CIDE (Distorted Humor), one of the most popular horses of recent years, will be celebrated with a retirement party on August 10 at Saratoga Race Course. The venue is particularly apt, since the chestnut gelding was foaled just furlongs away from the Spa. Presented by the New York Racing Association and the New York State Thoroughbred Breeding and Racing Program, the highlight of the day's activities will be Funny Cide's first public appearance since owner Jack Knowlton and trainer Barclay Tagg announced his retirement just prior to the start of the 2007 Saratoga race meeting. The seven-year-old gelding, who earned more than $3.5 million, was retired shortly after winning the final race of his career, the Wadsworth Memorial H. at Finger Lakes on July 4. "Funny Cide was a galvanizing force for both the sport's most devoted fans and for the casual observer," NYRA President and CEO Charlie Hayward said. "Just like Seabiscuit who helped rekindle America's passion for horse racing, Funny Cide reignited America's love affair with the game. We are proud to host him and his connections, including Jack Knowlton and Sackatoga Stable, trainer Barclay Tagg and Hall of Fame jockey Jose Santos, on this most memorable day." The day's activities will commence as fans enter the gates when they will receive a limited edition, commemorative Funny Cide retirement poster, free with paid admission while supplies last, courtesy of Daily Racing Form. The poster is a caricature of Funny Cide relaxing in a lawn chair, chomping on a cigar and sporting a summer beverage, while the iconic yellow school bus that became the symbol of the Sackatoga Stable ownership group, sits parked in the background. Members of Sackatoga Stable and Santos, who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on Monday, will autograph copies of the poster in front of the Silks room. Donations will be accepted to benefit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. Funny Cide's collection of hardware from his victories in the Kentucky Derby (G1), Preakness S. (G1) and Jockey Club Gold Cup S. (G1) will be on display near the Silks room, courtesy of Sackatoga Stable and WinStar Farm, which bred the champion. Additionally, fans will have the opportunity to sign an oversized "Best Wishes" card near the Silks room, which will also be available on track in the days leading up to Funny Cide's big sendoff. Funny Cide will be paraded on track and serenaded by fans in a group rendition of the Bette Midler song, "Wind Beneath My Wings," featuring the popular lyrics, "Did You Ever Know That You're My Hero." The post parade will be heralded by a special "Call to the Post" by Sammy the Bugler, specifically tailored to meet Funny Cide's eclectic musical tastes. Funny Cide will then be led to the winner's circle after his eponymous race, where he will receive a classic retirement gift: an oversized Rolex watch, courtesy of N. Fox Jewelers; however, this classic timepiece will come with an edible twist, as Funny Cide enjoys a "timely" afternoon meal al fresco in front of thousands of his closest friends. In addition to presenting Funny Cide with his edible, equine timepiece, N. Fox Jewelers is donating a Rolex watch, which will be raffled off on Funny Cide day. Raffle tickets will be available for $5 each and can be purchased at a number of outlets on track prior to, and on Funny Cide day, including locations staffed by the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, the NYS Thoroughbred Breeding and Racing Program and the NY Breeders. Additionally, N. Fox Jewelers will be selling raffle tickets at its Broadway store in downtown Saratoga Springs, New York. All proceeds will benefit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. Throughout the day fans can enjoy highlights of Funny Cide's career aired on the track's giant video screens. The highlights will include flashbacks to Funny Cide's signature victories in the Derby, Preakness, Jockey Club Gold Cup and many more. Stewart's Shops will provide a cool way to celebrate as they give Funny Cide fans a taste of their specially made Funny Cide Pride ice cream. Fans can purchase the ice cream all day on track, with proceeds benefiting the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. The day's festivities will culminate with a retirement party held at the Big Red Spring following the races. Rock band Blue Hand Luke will kick off the party with music from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. (EDT). Fans can purchase food and beverages while celebrating Funny Cide's remarkable career. All proceeds from the sale of Budweiser beer will benefit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.
 Send this article to a friend
|
|
