'00 Showcase Day at Belmont Park

KTTC Members Attend Showcase Day at Belmont

A group of 25 (kids and parents) made the scene for a local trip to Belmont Park for Showcase Day--New York's premier event for State-bred runners.

The morning began trackside at Belmont Park with a walking tour of the stable area. The group stopped at trainer Carl Nafzger's barn and was welcomed by his outstanding staff. Members watched Vic, a retired racehorse, roll in the sand, and have a bath while munching on carrots served by KTTC members.

Members then toured Nafzger's shedrow and got up close and personal to most of his runners. They too enjoyed a carrot snack.

Later, the group observed a blacksmith at work and met lots of great new equine friends.

The next stop on the morning road was at trainer Nick Zito's barn where the trainer spoke with the group and invited them to visited Breeders' Cup hopefuls Albert the Great and A P Valentine.

The group paused for photos in the historic Belmont paddock before moving on to the press box and its panoramic view of the massive racetrack. Belmont Park generously provided lots of goodies for the kids, including hats and t-shirts, as well as lunch in the Food Court and great seats.

(Click on images to see larger images)

Following the first race, which was named in honor of KTTC, the kids took a picture with winning rider Jorge Chavez.

In the jock's room the group met jockey Jerry Bailey for a Q and A session, autographs and photos. The champion jockey then presented each of them with autographed goggles.

For the rest of the afternoon, the kids and parents enjoyed the races, took in many of the sights and sounds of beautiful Belmont Park, and visited many of the booths and other attractions offered as part of Showcase Day.

Kids to the Cup thanks the New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Belmont Park and Sari Cohen for help in presenting this wonderful afternoon to our members and parents.