Saratoga Race Course to Again Host 4-H Open House

Saratoga Race Course, in partnership with New York State 4-H, will host the second annual 4-H Open House on Thursday, July 9. The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will welcome more than 200 4-H members from across New York State to participate in an immersive day of learning designed to introduce young people with interests in agriculture, animal science, and equine care to the world of thoroughbred racing. Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, this year's program has been expanded to provide participants with even greater access to various aspects of historic Saratoga Race Course. New for 2026, attendees will take guided tram tours of the Saratoga backstretch, offering a firsthand look at the barns, training facilities, and dedicated professionals who care for the equine athletes daily. "We are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for young people to discover the many careers and experiences that exist within thoroughbred racing," said Robert Hines, NYRA community affairs manager. "The 4-H Open House builds on the success of our educational programming by connecting young people with a passion for agriculture, animals, and science with the people and professions so integral to the sport. We hope participants leave Saratoga inspired, informed, and excited about the many ways they can become part of the future of racing." Educational sessions during the open house will explore topics including veterinary medicine, racehorse training and ownership, thoroughbred breeding, and other roles required to support horses both on and off the track. In addition to educational programming, participants will experience the excitement of live racing through visits to the paddock and a special winner's circle presentation recognizing representatives from New York State 4-H. The 4-H Open House serves as an extension of NYRA's Leg Up! program, which introduces students to the wide variety of careers available throughout the thoroughbred racing industry. Together, these initiatives are designed to inspire the next generation of equine professionals while strengthening connections between New York's agricultural community and New York's historic racing industry. "Our partnership with NYRA provides young people with meaningful opportunities to explore careers within New York's equine industry while building the leadership, communication, and workforce readiness skills that are central to the 4-H experience," said Brieanna Hughes, New York State equine specialist. "Whether a young person is interested in animal science, veterinary medicine, event management, communications, business, or the many other careers that support the racing industry, experiences like this help them connect their passions to future career pathways. Through hands-on learning and direct engagement with industry professionals, we are helping to develop the next generation of leaders for New York agriculture and the equine industry."