Embrace the Belmont
Embrace the Belmont III: Celebrating the Final Belmont Stakes at Saratoga
We’re thrilled to return to Universal Preservation Hall for Embrace the Belmont III! A signature Saratoga preview event honoring the 2026 Belmont Stakes and its historic final run at Saratoga. This year’s celebration brings together the very best of racing culture—food, fashion, fun, community education, and a tribute to our incredible equine athletes—for an unforgettable evening.
Designed to unite the Saratoga Springs year-round community, Embrace the Belmont III invites local business owners, professionals, and residents to deepen their connection to the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or just getting started, the evening offers an engaging and approachable way to understand racing, learn the fundamentals of handicapping, and get to know the 2026 Belmont Stakes field—so you can confidently join the conversation and experience the excitement firsthand.
Event Details:
Tuesday, June 2, 2026 | 5:00 – 7:30 PM
The evening begins with a vibrant cocktail reception before the main program.
The event will be emceed by Donna Brothers, fresh off covering the first two legs of the Triple Crown for NBC Sports. Donna will lead a panel discussion of this year’s Belmont field, alongside Jena Antonucci, Cherie DeVaux and the return of our three professional handicappers, Seth Merrow of Capital OTB, Sara Elbadwi with NYRA and Fox Sports, and Matthew DeSantis with NYRA; bringing their insight, energy, and fan-favorite perspectives back to the stage. The program will conclude with an optional “Handicapping 101” session for those looking to build their knowledge and confidence.
Tickets:
General Admission: $58 (a nod to the 158th running of the Belmont Stakes)
VIP Admission: $158 – includes access to a private reception space, exclusive bar and hors d’oeuvres, and the opportunity to connect with handicappers and local civic leaders.
Giving Back to the Community
Embrace the Belmont III proudly supports Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga and Saratoga Hospital Foundation.
100% of proceeds will be split between these two organizations, advancing mental wellness through equine-assisted therapy and ensuring access to high-quality healthcare across the region.
Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga (THS)
Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga is a nonprofit horse sanctuary dedicated to supporting mental wellness through the connection between humans and horses. In partnership with licensed professionals, THS provides equine-assisted services to individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. Their programs, including Freedom Rein, serve Veterans, families, and others in need of meaningful, experiential support.
Saratoga Hospital Foundation (SHF)
The Saratoga Hospital Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Saratoga Hospital, committed to ensuring access to high-quality healthcare in the community. Through fundraising and community support, the Foundation helps advance medical services, technology, and patient care programs. Their work ensures that resources are never a barrier to delivering exceptional healthcare to those who need it most.
A Passion-Driven Event
Embrace the Belmont was created by Laura Simiele, Rachel Dunn, and Donna Brothers three women united by their passion for horse racing, community, and creating meaningful connections through the sport.
Join us as we celebrate Saratoga, Embrace The Belmont, and honor the horses at the heart of it all.
A special thank you to the sponsors and partners helping bring this year’s event to life, including:
Adelphi Catering
Adelphi Racing Club
Bouchey Financial Group
Brook Ledge Horse Transportation
Brown Road Racing
Discover Saratoga
Franklin Square Market
Hildebrandt’s Ice Cream
National Thoroughbred League
NYRA
Sackatoga Stable
Ten Strike Racing
The Children and Horses Welfare Foundation
The Horse Whisperer Network
The Lazy Dog Cookie Company
Untamed Filly
Victory Racing Partners