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2008 Travers Day
Saratoga's "Mid-Summer Derby"
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2008
Gates Open Early at 7:00 a.m.
Early Post time: 12:00 p.m.
General Admission: $5.00
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2008 Travers Festival Events: (The festival runs from Saturday August 16 - Sunday August 24)
- Saturday, August 16: Travers Festival Begins
- Sunday August 17: Giveaway Day: Saratoga Long-Sleeve T-Shirt (sponsored by Adirondack Trust) more giveaway days>>
- Monday, August 18: Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest
- Wednesday, August 20: Stewart's Ice Cream Eating Contest
- Thursday, August 21: Travers Celebration Evening Gala
- Friday, August 22: 11th Annual Battle of the Brews Time: 12 - 5 p.m.
- Saturday, August 23: 139th Annual Travers Stakes Post Time: Noon
- Sunday, August 24: Last Day of the 2008 Travers Festival
History
The Travers Stakes in Saratoga Springs is the oldest
major thoroughbred horse race in America. The first Travers took place in
1864 at Saratoga Race Course. The race began when bare-knuckles boxing
champion and US congressman, John Morrissey held a four-day meeting at Horse
Haven. The meeting was so successful it was decided to build a racetrack
right across the street.
John Hunter and William R. Travers were said to be the organizers of
building the Saratoga Race Course in 1864. Travers also owned and bred many
of the best horses. Together, Hunter and Travers owned a horse named
Kentucky, the first winner of the stakes.
Today, Travers Weekend is one of the largest weekends throughout the
Saratoga racing season. Thousands of people travel to Saratoga Springs each
year during the racing season, specifically to participate and watch the
Travers Stakes. |
