by Frank Drucker Publicity Director, Empire City at Yonkers Raceway

Yonkers, NY — Yonkers Raceway and the Standardbred Owners Association of New York (SOA) are again playing grateful hosts to some very special guests.

Saturday night (May 14), the Raceway and its horsemen’s association shall welcome approximately 100 veterans to enjoy dinner and a night at the races. It’s the second such endeavor for the heroes, all of whom are from the greater New York area.

Trainer Robbie Siegelman is once again acting as “point person.” Siegelman has been a long-time, active volunteer with HorseAbility (www.horseability.org), an Old Westbury, New York-based non-profit organization offering therapeutic riding programs, hippotherapy and a summer day camp to children, adults and families with special needs.

Many of the veterans have become involved with the HorseAbility program, including those chosen to lead Saturday night’s first three post parades (one vet each from Army, Navy and Marines).

“We’re always happy to welcome our veterans,” said Bob Galterio, the Raceway’s COO. “It’s a thrill for us, and we’re doing what we can to make it a special night for them.”

“Everyone from our group is going out of our way to make sure these veterans have a terrific experience,” said Joe Faraldo, the president of SOA of New York.

Post time for the 12-race card is the usual 7:10 PM.