SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – The New York Racing Association invites its guests to participate in what has become a staple of opening weekend at Saratoga Race Course: the 24th annual Hat Contest, presented by Hat Sational by DEI, on Sunday, July 26.
Registration for the Hat Contest will begin at noon under the Saratoga grandstand. The competition will take place after the second, third and fourth races on the track apron when participants parade in front of the judges for the chance to win prizes.
Contestants are invited to don creative and fashionable millinery within three distinct categories: Uniquely Saratoga; Fashionably Saratoga; and Kreative Kids.
Kreative Kids is reserved for those 18 and under. Participants will vie for the first place prize of a $75 gift certificate to Hat Sational by DEI. Second and third place winners will receive various gift certificates.
The Fashionably Saratoga category will feature elegant and stylish hats after the third race. The first place winner will receive a $100 gift card to Hat Sational by DEI while second and third place winners will receive fascinators from the same.
Following the fourth race, the most original artisans will participate for the title of Uniquely Saratoga. The first place winner will receive a $100 gift certificate to Hat Sational by DEI while second and third place winners will receive fascinators from the same.
All gift certificates are valid at both of the hat retailer’s store locations in Saratoga Springs at 322 and 510 Broadway.
The opening Sunday of the season will feature the running of the Grade 1 Coaching Club American Oaks and include the first giveaway – a Saratoga baseball cap, free with paid admission, while supplies last.
Guests on Sunday can also enjoy Taste NY: Food and Artisans, where they can sample and shop from numerous vendors featuring products made exclusively in New York State.
For more information about Saratoga Race Course, call (518) 584-6200 or log onto www.nyra.com/Saratoga.