Contessa, NYRA team up for 'Toys for Tots' program

Trainer Gary Contessa, who in

2007 won a record 159 races on the New York

circuit and is currently the leading conditioner at the Aqueduct fall meet, has

pledged his share of any winnings at Aqueduct on Saturday to the United

States Marine Corps Reserve's "Toys for Tots" program. In addition, the New York Racing Association

(NYRA) will match Contessa's donation, providing the opportunity for a

lot more kids to receive gifts this holiday season.

"Every year I pledge $1,000 to 'Toys for Tots' during its annual stop at

Aqueduct," said Contessa, who has five horses entered at Aqueduct for Saturday. "But this year, when more parents are struggling just to

keep a roof over their heads, I've pledged all of the 10-percent trainer's

commission that my horses might earn on Saturday, and NYRA has agreed to match

that donation as well.

"Even if my horses don't earn any money on Saturday, NYRA and I will both donate $1,000 each,"

he added. "It's a great chance to help children

during the holidays."

Contessa will saddle GRIFFEN AVENUE (Judge T C) in the 2ND race, ROBYN'S

PRADA (El Prado [Ire]) in the 7TH race and POR FAVOR (Tour d'Or) in the 9TH

race. He also has listed as also-eligibles LIGHTS OF BROADWAY (Catienus) for the

5TH race and STEEL DRUMS (Fusaichi Pegasus) in the 7TH race.

Fans may also help by donating new, unwrapped toys or making cash

contributions this Saturday at Aqueduct, a regular stop on the USMCR's "Toys

for Tots" tour. Annually, the gifts of fans, horsemen and NYRA

employees ensure happier holidays for so many disadvantaged children in the

community. This year the need will be greater than ever, making Contessa's

pledge and NYRA's matching gift all the more important.

"NYRA has had a long relationship with 'Toys for Tots' and during these

difficult financial times, we want to further assist this important cause," NYRA

President and CEO Charles Hayward said.

USMC Gunnery Sergeant Alexander Mesa will be on the first floor of the

Aqueduct clubhouse Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. (EST) to collect the new

unwrapped toys from racing fans. Cash donations are gratefully accepted and

checks should be made payable to "Toys for Tots."