NY Racetrack Chaplaincy Breaks Ground on New Building

The New York Race Track Chaplaincy of America held a groundbreaking ceremony March 28 for a multi-purpose building and chapel on the grounds of Belmont Park in Elmont, N.Y.

The 3,500-square-foot facility, designed by Frost Hurff Architects will be located just inside the Gate 6 entrance to Belmont Park and include office space for the chaplaincy staff and a classroom to be used as a learning center.

Attending the ceremony were David O'Rourke, NYRA president and CEO; Ramon Dominguez, a retired Hall of Fame jockey who serves as president of the chaplaincy; Michael Dubb, a Thoroughbred owner and the founder and principal of the Beechwood Organization; and Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips.

"The Racetrack Chaplaincy plays a central role in the lives of so many here at Belmont Park, and this new building will be a center of spiritual fulfillment for decades to come," said O'Rourke.

"This facility is a dream come true for the chaplaincy and for all the people it helps," said Dominguez. "We are extremely grateful to all those who played a part in making it a reality."

Major funding for the project came from Lisa and Kenny Troutt of WinStar Farm, Kristine and Chris Kay, the late Marylou Whitney and her husband John Hendrickson, and the estate of the late Dolores Ochota. Dubb, who donated two trailers where the Chaplaincy is currently housed, has donated building materials for the entire facility.