NYRA Names New York Tech as Presenting Sponsor for Educational Initiatives

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has named New York Institute of Technology as the presenting sponsor of NYRA’s community-focused educational initiatives, Leg Up! and Students to the Starting Gate.

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to creating meaningful educational experiences, introducing young people to new career pathways, and helping students build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in school and beyond.

The Leg Up! program, launched in 2024, is designed to introduce students ages 12 to 19 to the many career opportunities available within thoroughbred racing through immersive visits to Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course. Nearly 1,000 young people have toured key areas of the racetrack, met industry leaders, and learned firsthand about the professional pathways that support one of New York’s most historic sports and entertainment industries.

Students to the Starting Gate complements these efforts by helping local students begin the school year prepared for success. The initiative provides backpacks and essential school supplies to students and families throughout communities surrounding NYRA’s racetracks, reinforcing the importance of education and ensuring students have the tools they need to thrive in the classroom.

“In addition to the baseline concussion testing that our physicians provide to jockeys through the Center for Sports Medicine, we’re proud to expand our relationship with NYRA by supporting programs that introduce students to new career possibilities and help prepare them for future success,” says Joseph Posillico, Ed.D., vice president for enrollment management and strategic communications at New York Tech.  

Through the presenting sponsorship, New York Tech will support the continued growth of both programs while helping expand awareness of educational and career opportunities available to students across New York State. New York Tech physicians in the Center for Sports Medicine have provided concussion testing, care, and management for jockeys since 2024.

“Investing in young people means helping them envision both a career and the path to get there,” says NYRA Community Affairs Manager Robert Hines. “Together with New York Tech, we’re connecting students with career opportunities in racing while introducing them to the educational experiences that can help make those careers possible.”