When the gates open, it was sometimes reminiscent of Black Friday sales. On Thursday, Saratoga Race Course officially opened the gates as racing fans scrambled for their spot, somewhere in the shade on a warm and humid opening day. 

This year when the gates opened, fans excitedly stepped in to Saratoga Race Course, but there was no pushing or shoving - or even that much running. But you could see the determination on each person's face in securing the perfect location to bet, hang with friends and watch the horses. 

Opening day anticipation may have waned a little bit since Saratoga became the temporary home of the Belmont Stakes this year, still fans are pumped up for another racing season. Local racing fan mattmurley19 posted on Twitter/X: 

Can't believe its Opening Day already! The Belmont being in #Saratoga in June really threw things off. Doesn't mean I won't bet every race still.

Can't believe its Opening Day already!

The Belmont being in #Saratoga🐎 in June really threw things off. Doesn't mean I won't bet every race still. @elio82
pic.twitter.com/QU3ehxWhY7

— Murls (@mattmurley19) July 11, 2024

Happy Opening Day @TheNYRA! 🐎🎪 Who is your best bet of the day? pic.twitter.com/NgBhP2iWhk

— Horse Racing Nation (@HR_Nation) July 11, 2024