Robert Hines

The New York Racing Association, Inc. and the Elmont Chamber of Commerce will host the return of the Paul Sapienza Elmont/Belmont Parade, which will be held on Saturday, May 30, NYRA announced Tuesday. This year marks the 18th edition of the parade, which serves as the traditional kickoff to the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival and celebrates the Elmont community. The parade is named in honor of the late Paul Sapienza, a lifelong Elmont resident and former president of the Elmont Chamber of Commerce. This year's parade will posthumously honor Nassau...

Saratoga Race Course will host Wish Wednesday this week, with more than 50 Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York Wish Family members visiting the track for a special day offering a new experience through the excitement of world-class thoroughbred racing. The group of Wish Kids and their families will participate in a variety of activities, culminating in a named race and trophy presentation in the winner's circle. "We are honored to support Make-A-Wish Vermont and Northeast New York and play a small part in the magic they create for children...

The New York Racing Association will partner with local and regional supermarket chain Market 32 and Price Chopper during the summer meet at Saratoga Race Course to benefit the Regional Food Bank. Each time the three horse wins the second race on the afternoon's card, Market 32 and Price Chopper and Polar Beverages will donate 1,000 meals to the Regional Food Bank. The initiative will be promoted throughout the summer and conclude on Labor Day, the final day of racing, when representatives from Market 32 and Price Chopper and Polar...

The annual Toys for Tots donation drive at Aqueduct Racetrack will return Thursday, Dec. 5 and continue through Saturday, Dec. 7. Founded in 1947, the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation collects and distributes new, unwrapped toys to local children in need each holiday season. Fans can access donation boxes at Aqueduct, located at the Turf and Field entrance and the Clubhouse lobby by the escalator. "This partnership means more children and families throughout New York City and across Long Island will experience a joyful holiday season," said Robert...

Twenty-five local nonprofit organizations will be provided with reserved picnic tables for each day of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga June 6-9, the New York Racing Association announced Tuesday. The nonprofits primarily comprise those with the mission to deliver human services and provide direct assistance to individuals experiencing food insecurity, financial hardship, homelessness and mental and physical disability. Organizations were also selected for their support of veterans, families and children, and promotion of the arts. "NYRA is pleased to recognize the important role that nonprofit organizations play in...