"We want our fans to be able to enjoy a special day," said NYRA director of security John Tierney. "At the same time, safety and security are extremely important issues to both NYRA and our fans. We believe this solution will satisfy all of our requirements."
Edited from a NYRA releaseThe New York Racing Association will allow fans to bring in coolers to specified areas of the grandstand at Belmont on Belmont Stakes Day, June 7, as Funny Cide races for Thoroughbred racing history and the Visa Triple Crown. Coolers will be allowed on the grandstand apron and in the backyard of the grandstand only. No coolers will be allowed in any areas of the clubhouse. Fans will not be able to carry coolers through the building itself. No glass containers will be allowed on Belmont Stakes day. Fans with coolers should enter at either the paddock or west end admission gates. Staging areas will be set up just inside the gates where all coolers will be inspected. Fans with coolers will not be allowed through the clubhouse gate. Those planning on picnicking on the grandstand apron should enter at the west end admissions gate for easier access to the apron.