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NEWS

The Norwich Guidon
Feb. 26, 2004

New Saratoga gaming and raceway opens

By Carrie Mitchell
Norwich Guidon Staff Writer

Saratoga Gaming and Raceway has officially opened its doors to the public.

The gaming facility, located on Crescent Ave in Saratoga Springs, has just finished $15 million of renovations and now houses 1,300 state-of-the-art video gaming slot machines, two restaurants, three bars, a food court and a variety of other services.

"The facility has turned out wonderfully," said Daniel Gerrity, the president of Saratoga Gaming and Raceway, during opening ceremonies. "And we are delighted to have the public partake in all Saratoga Gaming and Raceway have to offer." Saratoga Racetrack is the first racetrack to open a casino. Legislation that was passed in 2001 has allowed eight tracks to operate slot machines seven days a week. Saratoga is the first to take advantage of the new legislation.

"I can't say my wife is that thrilled about it [the opening of the casino], but I think it's great," said Tony D'Irio, a self-employed insurance salesman and Saratoga native.

By the end of opening day, the number of customers had reached over 10,000. The Raceway wouldn't release how much was spent by their customers on opening day.

The first 5,000 gamers through the door were given a free t-shirt.

"I think it's great. The casino is beautiful, and I got a shirt," joked Susan Duff a Saratoga native and homemaker.

By 3 p.m., over 5,000 had entered the gaming facility and tried their luck.

The new legislation allows the facility to be open seven days a week; the general hours for the Saratoga Raceway will be 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Most of the proceeds from the gaming facility will be going to the state's education fund.

"Our staff has done an incredible job," said Jamie Hartman, the Gaming General Manager. "We feel today has been a huge success."

The new facility drew a variety of customers. There were college students from Skidmore College, homemakers, businessmen and businesswomen and even a group from a local senior center.

"This is a great way to break up the day, and it's close to home," said Albert Harpe, a 72-year-old retired glass worker.

"And it's fun for most ages," chimed in Carol Harpe, Albert's wife.

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