Saratoga salutes Armed Forces

Wednesday is "Proud to be an American Day at Saratoga Race Course" as the

historic track pays tribute to the Armed Forces.

All United States military personnel and veterans receive free grandstand

admission with a valid military ID, courtesy of the Saratoga County Board of

Supervisors. The day will include musical tributes to the military, as well as

interactive displays, named races and a visit from the reigning Miss New York

and former Miss America.

Each branch of the United States military will be featured in the backyard

with information tables and interactive displays, while, on track, Saratoga Race

Course will present several named races in their honor. In addition, the New

York National Guard, New York Army National Guard and New York Air National

Guard will offer an extensive display of military equipment, recruiting displays

and interactive exhibits. Patrons are encouraged to drop off items with

Operation Adopt a Soldier that will be sent to American servicemen and women

overseas.

Gates open at 11 a.m. (EDT), and the following events are scheduled:

* 11:30 a.m. Former Miss America Kate Shindle will sing the National Anthem,

which will precede a special ceremony in the winner's circle to honor as many as

100 NYRA employees who have served in the military. Immediately following the

anthem, the Music Studio kids will sing "Thank You for being Our Heroes."

* 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Fans will be able to record an electronic greeting card

on DVD to send to troops overseas. Miss New York 2009, Alyse Zwick, an active

veterans' supporter, will greet patrons as they record their personalized

message, near the Big Red Spring.

* 1:30 p.m. Miss New York 2009 presents trophy in the winner's circle after

the second race named in honor of American veterans.

* 12:30 p.m. (track apron), 1:15 p.m. (Band Stand), 2 p.m. (Big Red Spring),

2:30 p.m. (Band Stand), 3:30 p.m. (Band Stand) The Music Studio will bring

together over a dozen melodic minors to perform classic patriotic themed songs.

* Additional named races for the New York Army National Guard; the United

States Coast Guard; Air Force, Navy and Marines throughout the day.