Saratoga is one of the oldest and most historic racing tracks in the United States. It is located in Saratoga Springs, New York, and is the home of the world-famous Saratoga Race Course. Saratoga is known for its premier horse racing events and is the host of many of the major races in the sport. To give you an idea of what big race is in Saratoga, here are 10 of the most renowned races that take place at the track:
The Travers Stakes
The Travers Stakes is the oldest and most prestigious event at Saratoga. It is the third leg of the American Triple Crown and is an invitation-only event for three-year-old Thoroughbreds. The race has been held annually since 1864 and is often referred to as the “Midsummer Derby.” The Travers Stakes offers a purse of $1 million.
The Whitney Stakes
The Whitney Stakes is another major event at Saratoga. It is a Grade I event for four-year-old Thoroughbreds and up. It has been a mainstay at the track since 1952 and is the last major race of the Saratoga meet. The Whitney Stakes offers a purse of $750,000.
The Woodward Stakes
The Woodward Stakes is another important race at Saratoga. It is a Grade I event for four-year-old Thoroughbreds and up and has been held at the track since 1954. The Woodward Stakes offers a purse of $750,000.
The Alabama Stakes
The Alabama Stakes is the oldest race for three-year-old fillies in the United States. It is a Grade I event and has been held annually since 1872. The Alabama Stakes offers a purse of $600,000.
The Sword Dancer Stakes
The Sword Dancer Stakes is a Grade I event for four-year-old Thoroughbreds and up. It has been held at Saratoga since 1983 and offers a purse of $500,000.
The Hopeful Stakes
The Hopeful Stakes is a Grade I event for two-year-old Thoroughbreds. It has been held at the track since 1926 and offers a purse of $400,000.
The Kings Bishop Stakes
The Kings Bishop Stakes is a Grade I event for three-year-old Thoroughbreds. It has been held at Saratoga since 1982 and offers a purse of $400,000.
The Ballerina Stakes
The Ballerina Stakes is a Grade I event for fillies and mares aged three and up. It has been held at the track since 1941 and offers a purse of $300,000.
The Saratoga Special Stakes
The Saratoga Special Stakes is a Grade II event for two-year-old Thoroughbreds. It has been held at the track since 1892 and offers a purse of $300,000.
The Test Stakes
The Test Stakes is a Grade I event for three-year-old fillies. It has been held at Saratoga since 1947 and offers a purse of $200,000.
Conclusion
As you can see, Saratoga is home to some of the most prestigious and important horse races in the country. From the Travers Stakes to the Test Stakes, Saratoga is a premier racing destination and is sure to have something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a big race in Saratoga, you won’t be disappointed.