The 13th annual jockeys-versus-horsemen charity basketball game, which benefits the programs of the New York Race Track Chaplaincy and was scheduled to be played on Wednesday, Sept. 1, has been canceled, the organization announced today.
“With COVID-19 infection rates climbing again, we just couldn't jeopardize the safety of the participants or the hundreds of fans who come to the game each year, so we decided it was best to cancel it once again,” said NY Race Track Chaplaincy executive director and lead chaplain Humberto Chavez. “We are all disappointed but hopefully we can resume the tradition next summer during the Saratoga meet.”
The game, which was not able to be played last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is one of the most popular events on the Saratoga social calendar and it routinely attracts more than 300 fans.
The jockey team is usually coached by Hall of Fame jockey Ángel Cordero Jr., with trainer Todd Pletcher and agent Kiaran McLaughlin coaching the horsemen team. Mitch Levites of the NYRA television department serves as the announcer and provides lively commentary.
Proceeds from this event serve to benefit signature programs of the NY Race Track Chaplaincy.
The NY Race Track Chaplaincy provides the backstretch community with children's enrichment, social service, and recreational programs, as well as educational opportunities, and non-denominational religious services.
Horsemen, individuals, or organizations who would like to make a donation to the NY Chaplaincy may do so via the NY Chaplaincy website at www.rtcany.org or by contacting Eleanor Poppe at info@rtcany.org or 516-428-5267.
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