NY Racing Association Announces Empire Trillium Series Stakes Lineup: $3.2M 14-Race Program Revealed

The New York Racing Association has officially announced the names for the New York legs of the Empire Trillium Series, a 14-race stakes program worth a combined $3.2 million. The series, which will run through the 2026 season, marks a significant expansion of stakes racing in the region, according to NYRA’s official statement released June 18.

The Empire Trillium Series is a collaboration between NYRA and the Ontario Jockey Club, designed to elevate the profile of stakes racing in both New York and Ontario. The series includes a mix of graded stakes races, with several events carrying stakes purses of $200,000 or more, including the Grade II Empire Trillium Stakes at Belmont Park and the Grade I Trillium Stakes at Woodbine Racetrack.

What races are included in the New York legs of the series?
The New York portion of the series features five stakes races across two tracks: Belmont Park and Aqueduct. The races include:

• The Grade II Empire Trillium Stakes ($200,000 purse) at Belmont Park, set for August 17.
• The Grade II Empire Trillium Handicap ($200,000 purse) at Aqueduct, scheduled for September 7.
• The Grade III Empire Trillium Sprint ($150,000 purse) at Belmont Park, set for July 27.
• The Grade III Empire Trillium Mile ($150,000 purse) at Aqueduct, scheduled for August 31.
• The Grade III Empire Trillium Fillies & Mares Stakes ($150,000 purse) at Belmont Park, set for October 5.

Why does this matter for New York racing?
The Empire Trillium Series represents a major investment in stakes racing, with NYRA committing $1.6 million of the total $3.2 million purse structure. The series is designed to attract top-tier horses and trainers from across North America, according to NYRA President and CEO David Petruzzelli.

“This series will not only provide exciting competition for our horses but also enhance the overall racing experience for fans,” Petruzzelli said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Ontario Jockey Club to bring this level of stakes racing to New York and Ontario.”

The series also includes a bonus program worth an additional $1.2 million, distributed based on performance in the races. Horses that win multiple legs of the series stand to earn significant additional purses, which could incentivize trainers and owners to bring their best horses to New York.

How does this compare to past NYRA stakes programs?
The Empire Trillium Series is the largest stakes program ever offered by NYRA, surpassing the previous record set by the Breeders’ Cup Challenge series, which featured a total purse of $2.8 million in 2025. The addition of the Ontario Jockey Club as a partner also expands the geographic reach of the series, creating a cross-border racing circuit that could draw international attention.

In contrast to past NYRA initiatives, the Empire Trillium Series includes a mix of graded stakes races, with multiple events carrying Grade II and Grade III status. This structure allows for a broader range of competition while still offering significant purses to top performers.

What’s next for the Empire Trillium Series?
The first race of the series, the Grade III Empire Trillium Sprint at Belmont Park, is set for July 27. The series will conclude with the Grade I Trillium Stakes at Woodbine Racetrack on October 26, capping off a season of high-stakes competition.

NYRA has not yet announced whether the series will continue beyond 2026, but the success of the inaugural season could influence future decisions. The organization has indicated that it will evaluate the series’ impact on attendance, media coverage, and overall racing interest before making any long-term commitments.

For now, the focus remains on the 2026 season, with trainers and owners already preparing for the opportunity to compete in a series that offers both prestige and substantial prize money.

Sources:

• New York Racing Association official statement (June 18, 2026)
• Horse Racing Nation (June 18, 2026)