Rename the Santa Anita Stakes

From a Santa Anita Park press release.

Santa Anita Park’s Autumn Meet, which opens on Friday, Sept. 28, will have a number of its stakes races renamed, including the Gr. III, $100,000 Harold C. Ramser Sr. Stakes. 

Santa Anita officials want the public to help with renaming the Ramser, which will be run on Saturday, Oct. 20. The winner will receive a choice box seat, VIP tour and will have his or her hotel accommodations paid for.

Fans are asked to email their race-name suggestions by 12 noon, on Friday June 15, to namethatstake@santaanita.com.  Simulcast racing attendees will be able to fill out hard copy entry forms at Santa Anita through Thursday, June 14.

“The Ramser is for 3-year-old fillies at one mile on the turf,” said Santa Anita Vice President of Racing, Rick Hammerle.  “We thought this would be a fun and unique way to get our fans involved in this renaming process.  There are many things to consider, such as local geography, history and culture, prominent past winners, both human and equine.  I think those who participate with us will discover this is not as easy as may seem.”

Santa Anita C.E.O. Mark Verge was instrumental in bringing Santa Anita’s fans into the process.

“Our Chairman, Mr. Frank Stronach, always strives to be inclusive and to listen to our fans,” said Verge.  “What better way to provide them the opportunity to rename a graded stakes race?  

“We’re hoping to get as many people involved in this contest as possible and to draw attention to the fact that we will be renaming a number of our stakes.  We’ll carefully consider all of the submissions and then a committee will select the winning name. 

“Whoever wins this is going to have a great time, as they’ll be designated to present the trophy in the Winner’s Circle and we’ll also take them on a VIP tour which will include a visit to the paddock and a premium box seat for the day,” added Verge.

Santa Anita’s Autumn Meet will begin on Friday, Sept. 28 and will be highlighted by the two-day Breeders’ Cup World Championships on Nov. 2 & 3.  Closing day is Sunday, Nov. 4.

Breeders’ Cup tickets and reservations are available at www.breeders’cup.com, or by calling (626) 254-1330.

Reservations and season ticket information is available at www.santaanita.com or by calling (626) 574-RACE.