by John Matarazzo, director of racing operations, Saratoga Casino and Raceway

Saratoga Springs, NY — Celebrating 70 years of live harness racing, Saratoga Casino and Raceway will open for the season at 7:05 p.m. on Friday, March 4. With 171 racing dates, the 2011 season will run through Dec. 11.

Throughout March, races will begin at 7:05 p.m. Fridays, 12:45 p.m. on Sundays and doubleheaders every Saturday at 12:45 p.m. and 7:05 p.m. For the full season schedule, visit www.saratogagaming.com.

To kick off opening weekend, a complimentary commemorative baseball cap will be provided to the first 500 patrons who purchase a live racing program on Saturday, March 5, for both the matinee and evening cards. As always, parking and admission are free.

One of the newest features of the harness track this year is the introduction of the fifty cent minimum wagers. In response to customer requests and feedback as well as recent trends, Saratoga Casino and Raceway will implement the new wagering minimum for trifecta, Pick-3 and Pick-4 bets.

The decreased minimum on these bets expands wagering opportunities for our customers. A fifty-cent wager encourages patrons to experiment with combinations and become more involved in the races.

The 70th season brings the popular “Battle of Saratoga” series to the track beginning on March 12 and culminating with the $350,000 Joe Gerrity, Jr. memorial pacing series on August 20. The “Battle of Saratoga” includes ten race series’ totaling more than $1 million in purses. It is expected to draw the best pacers in the Northeast.

Another highlight for 2011 is the prestigious $1.6 million New York Sire Stakes Night of Champions. For this particular series, all horses must be bred in New York and be 2- or 3-year-olds. There are eight divisions raced on different tracks throughout New York State, with points awarded to horses based on their order of finish. The eight highest point earners will compete in the $200,000 finals in each of eight races at Saratoga Casino and Raceway on Oct. 1.

Guests can also expect the return of the annual fireworks night on Saturday, July 3. As in the past, racing will begin at 5 p.m. and fireworks will follow.

The consistently popular “Win, Place or Show Me the Money” handicapping challenge will also make a comeback, as well as t-shirt giveaways.

The return of live racing also marks the re-opening of Fortunes Restaurant, overlooking the track. Fortunes will be open for dinner during live racing evening cards and for Sunday brunch this season, featuring a new chef and a new menu.

Can’t make it to the races? Check out Saratoga Casino and Raceway’s very own interactive wagering platform online at www.SaratogaBets.com. Bet online or by phone at 877.782.9994 without paying a surcharge for winnings.