Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens, the only racetrack within the New York City limits, is not long for the world. After Belmont Park in nearby Elmont is rebuilt, the track will shutter permanently. In the meantime, though, all NYRA racing, with the exception of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival and the Saratoga summer meet, is taking place there. I am a part owner of a three-year-old filly who races on the NYRA circuit, and earlier this year my friend and I drove down to Aqueduct from Saratoga to watch her race. This also happened to be my first time visiting the track.
Upon arrival at the track, it was raining, and it continued to rain the whole time we were there. We still had a great time, though!
The Manhattan clam chowder in the horsemen’s lounge was delicious! The lounge offers a nice heated place to watch the races in winter, but we wanted to be close to the action so we watched from the winner’s circle.
Mary arrives at the paddock ahead of her race.
The rain came down as we watched Mary get ready for her race.
I don’t much like being in the rain, but I love taking photos in the rain.
Mary gets some pets as she gets tacked up.
Mary’s jockey, Dylan Davis, enters the paddock.
Dylan and his father, Mary’s trainer, Robbie Davis, discuss the game plan.
Dylan looks excited for the race!
I made an illustration of this one.
Goggles on, ready to go!
Down the stretch they come!
Mary was very involved in the race, but it just wasn’t her day to win. On this day, she finished fourth.
Mitole’s Girl was the eventual winner.
Even though Mary didn’t win, it’s always a thrill to watch your horse race!
Mary and the other horses return from their gallop out.
Dylan gave Mary a great ride.
Mary gets a pet from Liza, one of her owners, after the race.
Until next time, sweet girl!
And so, Mary is still to this day a maiden, but it has still been a thrill to be part of her journey and I can’t wait to see what’s in store next for her!
To see more of my equine photography, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and X. All photos in this post © Samantha Decker and may not be reused without permission.
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Great post!