Saratoga Race Course will re-open to fans at near-full capacity when the 2021 summer meet commences on July 15th.

In order to re-open Saratoga Race Course to fans at near-full capacity, the New York Racing Association will designate most sections for vaccinated fans only, including the popular Saratoga backyard.

Officials said the policy aligns with current state guidance for large outdoor sports and entertainment venues, which allows for fully vaccinated sections to operate at full capacity without social distancing measures in place.

Alternatively, NYRA will designate a small number of hospitality and seating areas for non-vaccinated fans.

Fans in these sections will be required to observe social distancing guidelines and to wear a face covering at all times during their day at Saratoga Race Course.

NYRA said all fans who show proof of vaccination on Opening Day, Thursday, July 15th, will receive free grandstand general admission.

Visitors to the Saratoga Race Course who are under the age of 16 years old will be allowed to accompany fully vaccinated adults anywhere throughout the track.

If not accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult, they will be required to stay within the non-vaccinated areas, NYRA said.

Said NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo: “The historic Saratoga Race Course is one of the Capital Region’s most storied attractions, drawing over a million New Yorkers and visitors to Saratoga Springs each summer. This is all part of New York’s rebirth and resurgence as we continue to come back better and stronger from this pandemic.”

The 2021 summer meet at the Saratoga Race Course will run from July 15th through September 6th and will feature 76 Stakes Races worth $21.5 million in total purses.

Tickets go on sale June 9th.

In other NYRA news, the Belmont Stakes is Saturday June 5th.

On Friday the Daily Racing Blog will preview the field of eight. So be sure to stop back.