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Most people visit the theater during the weekend, but not equestrian fans. They utilize any opportunity they get to visit their favorite race courses and enjoy the sport. For the fans in New York, there is no better alternative to the iconic Saratoga Race Course, where many legendary jockeys and horses have showcased their career’s best performances. Recently, a picture of the race course has caught the fans’ attention on social media and sparked a lot of excitement.

The Saratoga Race Course got a full makeover at the start of the year. The administrating committee wanted to give the race course a fresh and modern look so that the fans could be proud of their beloved venue. It is a new beginning for the Saratoga Race Course, and the picture encapsulated that perfectly.

Picture of equestrian race course commemorates new beginnings

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There could be none better than Barbara D. Livingston, the chief photographer for the Daily Racing Form, to capture the essence of the moment on camera. She took the photo just as the sun was setting and the sky turned golden in hue. It could very easily symbolize the end of an era at the Saratoga Race Course. She uploaded the picture on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption, “Saratoga Race Course, the evening of July 16, 2023”. She also tagged the Daily Racing Form and the New York Racing Association on the picture. The angle of the shot was superb as the golden streak on the sky reflected in a pool of water, adding to the beauty of the place. Normally, the race course teems visitors, but in Livingston’s snap, it looked peaceful and deserted.

The race course is a beloved fixture in the equestrian community and continues to draw in thousands of fans during major racing events. However, in recent days, the visitors were positively surprised by the changes in the race course. The administrative body spared no expense and added a backstage area, which they have called the backstretch. This area will serve as a place of meeting between fans and riders. They have also eliminated the old exchange booths and replaced them with state-of-the-art betting terminals. Finally, the patrons can pay $7 24 hours in advance and get access to the grandstand and the clubhouse without paying the additional $3. Barbara D. Livingston’s photo of the race course has gone viral among equestrian fans and left everyone in awe.

Equestrian fans delighted and awestruck

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The picture summoned many fan comments who praised Livingston’s artistry. However, one fan with an eye for detail questioned about the pool in front of the race course, stating, “Beautiful shot! What is that reflected off of? It looks like it’s reflected off water but the lake would be too far away. And with only one visible rail… was it standing water between the turf and dirt courses?”

Next, Livingston herself clarified the fan’s doubt, explaining, “Good question. It was standing water not long after a rain, on the dirt track near the inner rail”. One fan praised the picture and called it a work of art, inquiring, “How can I get this picture! This needs to be hanging in my house!”. In a similar manner, another fan praised the picture and even called it iconic, saying, “Absolutely beautiful, Once in a million picture”. Lastly, one loyal fan showed love for the picture, outcrying in joy, “Breathtaking, Barbara! Saratoga forever!!!”

Read More: “It’s a Sad Day”: Equestrian Community in Mourning as 7 Horses Meet Tragic Fate at Saratoga Racecourse in Less Than a Month

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Saratoga Race Course has made a permanent home in the hearts of the equestrian fans. The picture and the comments below showcase the true sentiments of the fans for the place. Now, as the race course has added more attractions and continues to evolve, that love and bond will only get stronger.

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