BY Peter A. Sutters Jr.
The New York Racing Association Inc. announced earlier this month that it will be increasing ticket costs at the Floral Park race track as well as prohibiting spectators from bringing in their own alcoholic beverages. A spokesman for the NYRA said checking coolers of fans entering the racetrack had become problematic because of the increase in crowd size.”The crowds have gotten bigger and bigger,” said Francis LaBelle, a spokesman for NYRA. “We want to maintain order.”LaBelle said that last year the Belmont Stakes drew around 120,000 people because of the possibility of horse Smarty Jones capturing the Triple Crown with a win at Belmont. Jones came up short of the feat when Birdsong spoiled Jones' chance to become the 12th winner of the Triple Crown. LaBelle said there were no major alcohol-related problems at last year's race and the decision to prohibit people from bringing in their own booze was “pre-emptive.” Alcohol will still be offered for sale at the track.”For one day people can by their booze at the track,” said LaBelle. Coolers will be allowed in the backyard area of the racetrack, but the ban on alcohol and glass of any kind will be in effect. A statement from NYRA said the move to ban alcohol was done with the “interest of public safety and in an attempt to make sure people drink responsibly.” Prices to attend this year's race will be increased from $10 to $20 for general admission and lottery prices for seats will range from $20 to $110, according to LaBelle. LaBelle maintained the increase in admission price at Belmont was done to bring the cost closer to the other Triple Crown tracks, The Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs and The Preakness at Pimlico. “Our prices have been raised to keep pace with the other Triple Crown host tracks,” said NYRA President and CEO Charles Hayward in a statement. “Yet, we still have the least expensive seat and admission price.” Reach reporter Peter A. Sutters Jr. by e-mail at news@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300 Ext. 173.
