NEWS
Saratoga will host retirement party for Funny Cide
Posted: Thursday, August 02, 2007 3:43 PM
FUNNY CIDE
NTRA photo
Retired champion and dual classic winner Funny Cide, the first New York-bred to win the Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness Stakes (G1), will be honored with a retirement party on August 10 at Saratoga Race Course.
Owned by Sackatoga Stable, the Distorted Humor gelding, who was foaled just furlongs away from the Saratoga Springs, New York, track, will receive a retirement send-off at his hometown racetrack that will feature a party for fans in the backyard; a poster giveaway and autograph signing by Racing Hall of Fame jockey Jose Santos; a post parade appearance by the 2003 Eclipse Award winner on the main track; a Rolex watch giveaway; and even a unique ice cream flavor named after the fan-favorite Thoroughbred.
Presented by the New York Racing Association and by the New York State Thoroughbred Breeding and Racing Program, the highlight of the day’s activities will be Funny Cide’s first public appearance since owner Jack Knowlton and trainer Barclay Tagg announced his retirement just prior to the start of the 2007 Saratoga race meeting.
The seven-year-old gelding, who earned more than $3.5-million, was retired shortly after winning the final race of his career, the Wadsworth Memorial Handicap at Finger Lakes on July 4.
“Funny Cide was a galvanizing force for both the sport’s most devoted fans and for the casual observer,” NYRA President Charlie Hayward said. “Just like Seabiscuit, who helped rekindle America’s passion for horse racing, Funny Cide reignited America’s love affair with the game.
“We are proud to host him and his connections, including Jack Knowlton and Sackatoga Stable, trainer Barclay Tagg and Hall of Fame jockey Jose Santos, on this most memorable day.”
