A Message from Nancy: Reflecting on Another Saratoga Season

A message from Nancy L. Underwood, Executive Director of BEST

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What a summer.

As another incredible Saratoga meet comes to a close, we want to celebrate the season and say thank you.

Long before the first race each day, the men and women of the backstretch are already at work. They care for the horses, prepare them to compete, and make the racing we all love possible.

And throughout the Saratoga season, BEST was there for them.

This summer, BEST was there when someone needed to see a doctor, talk to a counselor, get to an appointment, navigate benefits, continue their education, or simply needed someone to turn to.

But some of our favorite moments were the ones when our community simply came together.

We shared dinners, played bingo, celebrated at community events, and welcomed hundreds of backstretch workers and their families to our annual Health Fair: connecting people with healthcare, resources, and one another.

We also had the opportunity to celebrate our inaugural BEST Day at The Rail, surrounded by so many of the friends, partners, and supporters who make our work possible.

Those moments are part of BEST, too.

Because caring for the backstretch isn't only about being there when someone needs help. It's about building a community where people know they are supported, valued, and cared for.

And none of it happens without the community that stands behind this work.

As the horses, workers, and racing community move on from Saratoga, BEST moves with them. Our work continues every day, year-round.

But before we move on to what's next, we simply want to say:

Thank you for showing up.

Thank you for supporting our work.

Thank you for caring about the people behind the racing.

And thank you for being part of another unforgettable Saratoga season.

We can't wait to see you at Belmont!

With gratitude,

Nancy L. Underwood

Executive Director, BEST