Officials at the New York Racing Association (NYRA) have announced a charitable campaign in support of the trainers, staff and backstretch workers impacted by the early Tuesday barn fire at the Saratoga Casino Hotel Harness Track.The initiative will first include a $50,000 contribution from NYRA to the Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association (SHHA) to assist those affected by the fire. Additionally, NYRA will host a fundraiser on opening day of the meet at Saratoga Race Course July 3 where fans will have the opportunity to purchase a specially designed T-shirt. The shirt will also be available on track in the Official NYRA store and online by clicking here beginning Friday, June 19. All proceeds from the sale of the shirts will benefit the SHHA.The shirts will also be available for purchase at the Saratoga Casino Hotel Harness Track during its Sunset Saturday series from July 11 through Aug. 29.The New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association (NYTHA) will also contribute $10,000 to the SHHA in support of the efforts.“The New York horse racing community is united by a shared commitment to the horses and the people who care for them,” said David O'Rourke, NYRA President and CEO. “NYRA extends its deepest condolences to everyone affected by this tragic event. We are proud to partner with the Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association to provide meaningful support to our neighbors at the Saratoga Casino Hotel Harness Track during this difficult time.”“We are deeply grateful for the extraordinary support shown by our community in the aftermath of the recent barn fire,” said Sam Gerrity, Chief Executive Officer of Saratoga Casino Hotel. “We extend our sincere appreciation to NYRA for their assistance on the day of the incident and, in particular, for their generous contribution to support the horsemen most directly impacted by this tragedy. This contribution is a meaningful demonstration of the solidarity that defines our racing community, and we are thankful for NYRA's continued support during this difficult period.”Henry Westbrook Jr., President of the Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association, thanked NYRA and the racing community for their support.“This is a devastating loss for everyone involved, and the outpouring of support from across the racing industry means a great deal to those affected,” Westbrook said. “The assistance provided through this effort will help our trainers, caretakers and staff as they navigate this unimaginable tragedy. On behalf of the Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association, I want to thank NYRA, NYTHA and racing fans for standing with our community.”“When heartbreak strikes our neighbors, the entire New York racing family responds,” said NYTHA President Tina Bond. “NYTHA is proud to contribute to this collective effort, and we stand fully alongside the harness community as they begin the difficult process of recovery.”The post NYRA Announces Charitable Initiative In Aftermath Of Saratoga Harness Track Fire appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.