Saratoga Summer Meet Preview 2025
Few events on the horse racing calendar carry the tradition, talent, and excitement of the Saratoga Summer Meet. Set in upstate New York, the 2025 edition - spanning 40 days from July 10 to September 1 - offers a full slate of stakes races, live racing, and fan experiences.
The meet opens on July 10 with the Grade 3 Schuylerville Stakes for 2-year-old fillies and continues with a packed opening weekend, including the Grade 1 Diana Stakes and Grade 3 Sanford Stakes.
Jim Dandy Day, scheduled for July 26, serves as the primary prep for the prestigious Travers Stakes. The Jim Dandy has long been a key measuring stick for 3-year-olds eyeing Saratoga’s richest prize.
Travers Day - set for August 23 - will headline the meet with the $1.25 million Travers Stakes, and include four additional Grade 1 events: the Ballerina, Forego, H. Allen Jerkens Memorial, and Personal Ensign Stakes.
Among the top barns expected to make a strong showing are Chad Brown, Todd Pletcher, and Brad Cox - each boasting elite-level talent for Saratoga’s marquee stakes. Notable horses to watch include General Ledger and Eastport, both aiming for the Travers, while other promising 2-year-olds will debut in key juvenile races throughout the meet.
Top jockeys Irad Ortiz Jr., Flavien Prat, and Luis Saez return to compete for the meet’s riding title, with fans expecting fierce battles in daily feature races. Christophe Clement, last year’s leading trainer, is also back with a strong stable.
A total of 64 stakes races - including 18 Grade 1s - are on the calendar, with over $20 million in total purse money. The track will host live racing five days per week: Wednesday through Sunday, with Mondays and Tuesdays dark except for special dates like Labor Day.
Saratoga’s infield and picnic areas also add to the experience for fans seeking more than just wagering action. Food festivals, craft beer days, and family-themed events offer something for everyone, creating an electric summertime vibe unique to this historic venue.
The combination of top-tier racing and unmatched tradition makes Saratoga a bucket-list destination for any racing fan. Whether you're betting the early double or soaking up the sun on the apron, the Spa delivers unforgettable moments every summer.