Sweet! NYRA wi-fi's Spa..

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NYRA ADDS FREE WI-FI AT SARATOGA

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced that for the first time free wireless internet will be available to track patrons at Saratoga Race Course. The Wi-Fi access will be available beginning on Opening Day, Friday, July 20.

The new Wi-Fi network will be one of the most technologically-advanced networks for mobile on-track wagering in the industry and will provide convenient Internet access in all public areas of Saratoga Race Course. The network will have high capacity to serve patrons each day of the meet.

“Our Wi-Fi network introduces a new FastBet Mobile platform for on-track wagering at Saratoga Race Course. We are excited to provide this additional convenience for fans who wish to place wagers on mobile devices through one of the most advanced wireless networks available,” said NYRA President and COO Ellen McClain. “We also encourage track patrons to utilize our network to engage in social media activities by sharing their day at the race experience with friends and family.”

Installed by the Latham, NY, based company Deep Blue Communications, the network features advanced wireless equipment manufactured by Ruckus Wireless and includes as many as 50 indoor and outdoor wireless access points, and is designed to support handheld devices, smart phones and tablets used by track patrons.

“NYRA is thrilled to tap into the expertise of a locally-based, Capital Region company to help install our new Wi-Fi network here at Saratoga Race Course,” said Tom Thill, NYRA Vice President and Chief Information Officer. “Our partners at Deep Blue Communications have done an outstanding job in helping to make this wireless service available for our patrons here at historic Saratoga Race Course.”

Patrons will be able to utilize the new Wi-Fi network to link to United Tote’s FastBet Mobile, a wagering application available exclusively on-track and designed for use on smart phones and tablets, including iPhones, iPads and most Android based tablets and phones.

To use the application, NYRA Cash Cards will be available and can be loaded at any voucher window throughout the track. Further deposits, and any withdrawals, can be made at any window. Patrons may then access the FastBet page via the new Wi-Fi network with their device. Patrons enter the card’s account number and pin into FastBet to begin wagering. Once finished, patrons can choose to keep their account balance on their NYRA Cash Card or cash out at any teller window.

The wireless network will also enable patrons to access their NYRA Rewards account over the internet. New York’s premier wagering platform offers users the opportunity to review entries, live odds, race results and place wagers on the entire NYRA simulcast menu while receiving the highest rebates in the industry. Registration is free and available to users of BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, and Windows and Java-based devices. For more information, visit www.nyrarewards.com.

The Wi-Fi network will be available free of charge to track patrons beginning Opening Day, Friday, July 20 through Labor Day, Monday, September 3.