Saratoga Springs, NY – The Racing and Gaming Conference at Saratoga (RGCS), returning to the Saratoga Hilton from August 10–12, 2026, announced that this year’s event will include a special charitable initiative supporting the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association (SHHA).
This year’s RGCS charitable focus follows heightened attention to the needs of the Saratoga harness community after a tragic barn fire last month. As reported by the New York Times, the incident resulted in significant loss and has prompted industry wide efforts to provide relief and long term support for affected horse people and their families. The SHHA has been central in coordinating assistance, underscoring the importance of strengthening resources for those who sustain the sport.
To recognize the vital support this organization provides to the harness racing community, RGCS encourages conference attendees to make a donation at https://www.gofundme.com/f/45v88. In addition, RGCS will be making a $2,500 contribution to assist during this difficult time.
“The harness racing community is built on resilience, dedication, and a deep love for the sport,” said Patrick Brown, Co Director of RGCS. “In a year when the Saratoga community has faced unimaginable hardship, it is more important than ever for all of us to stand together. Supporting SHHA is not only the right thing to do, but it also reflects the values that define this conference and the people who make racing possible.”
“RGCS has always been about bringing people together to strengthen the future of racing and gaming,” said Juliann Barreto, Co Director of RGCS and COO of Spectrum Gaming Group. “This initiative allows us to give back to the individuals and families who form the backbone of the harness racing community. We are proud to help amplify their needs and encourage our attendees to join us in making a meaningful impact.”
This year’s conference will also include:
NBC’s Steve Kornacki to headline with a discussion called “Concentration, Competition and the Future of American Horse Racing”
• Integrity, Horse Welfare, and the Human Element in Racing
• Regulatory Modernization in U.S. Racing and HISA Update
• Prediction Markets: Innovation or Regulatory and Legal Challenge
• Downstate Casinos and the Future of Gaming in the Northeast
• Prop Bets, Point Shaving, and Game Integrity
• iGaming: Inevitable Innovation or Passing Fancy?
• Regulation, Competition, and Conflicts in the Gaming Ecosystem
• The Future of Historical Horse Racing
• Can the $100/Week Bettor Compete with CAWs?
• A Bet Is a Bet … Or Is It?
SIGNATURE EVENTS
• Welcome Party at the historic Adelphi Hotel
• Twilight Racing Happy Hour
• A Day at the Races at Saratoga Race Course
• Conference coincides with the Fasig-Tipton Yearling Sale
A DAY AT THE RACES
Immediately following the final panel on Wednesday, August 12 (beginning at noon)
Registered attendees can add this always popular experience for just $75. Your Race Day package includes:
• Admission to the Saratoga Race Course
• Preferred seating in the popular Porch section — located on the track level of the Clubhouse, just feet from the outside rail
• Food & beverage credit
• Souvenir program book
Space is limited and will sell out! Reserve your Race Day spot today.
SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE, BUT FILLING FAST
A limited number of high visibility sponsorship opportunities remain. Organizations interested in elevating their presence at RGCS are encouraged to secure their package soon. See available sponsorship opportunities here.
Registration for the RGCS is open! Early-bird rates are available for those who register before July 9.
HOTEL ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION
This year’s conference coincides with “the crown jewel of the North American yearling sales calendar” – The Saratoga Sale – which features the finest of the North American yearling crop. This also means Saratoga will be bustling with visitors, so Attendees are strongly encouraged to book early to secure their accommodations.
A group room block is available at the Saratoga Hilton. Attendees are strongly encouraged to book early to secure their accommodation. Rooms must be booked by July 8 to receive the group rate. To book your stay click here.
An additional block of rooms has been added at the nearby Hampton Inn & Suites Saratoga Springs Downtown. Rooms must be booked by end of day July 10 in order to receive the group rate. To book you stay click here.
RGCS Contacts:
Sponsorship information: Josh Faber – jfaber@spectrumgaming.com
Conference and registration questions: Jenna Wheeler – jwheeler@spectrumgaming.com
Media inquiries: Sherry Amos – samos@spectrumgaming.com