NEWS: NYTB

Funny Cide to return to Saratoga Race Course Thursday

Monday, August 24th, 2015

Press release

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will welcome the return of Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Jockey Club Gold Cup champion Funny Cide to Saratoga Race Course on Thursday, August 27.

Fans are invited to watch the 2003 Eclipse Award 3-year-old male champion parade in the paddock from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Funny Cide, owned by Jack Knowlton of Sackatoga Stable and foaled at McMahon of Saratoga thoroughbreds farm, was the first New York-bred to win the Kentucky Derby when he accomplished the feat in 2003. He went on to win the second leg of the Triple Crown in 2003 and captured the 2004 Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park. He retired in 2009 and currently resides at the Kentucky Horse Park.

The appearance of Funny Cide comes one day before New York Breeders’ Showcase Day at Saratoga Race Course on Friday, August 28. The popular state-bred card will include six stakes, including the eponymously named $200,000 Funny Cide for 2-year-olds at 6 ½ furlongs and the $250,000 Albany for 3-year-olds going 1 1/8 miles.

“We are thrilled to welcome the return of one of New York’s most beloved and successful home-grown thoroughbreds on the eve of New York Breeders’ Showcase Day at Saratoga,” said NYRA CEO and President Chris Kay. “In 2014 we inaugurated Saratoga Showcase Day and it was incredibly well-received by fans and horseplayers. This year we have reserved one of our most high-profile days on the eve of the Travers to showcase the outstanding equine talent that is being produced right here in New York.”

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