19th Annual Marini Builders Siro's Cup

Years of tradition. A legendary venue. Honoree Linda Rice. A picture perfect summer evening. These elements and more combined to make the 19th Annual Marini Builders Siro’s Cup, a benefit for the Center for Disability Services, a smashing success and a memorable night for all who attended.

Organizers welcomed a record crowd to the July 19th event, which is widely considered the unofficial kick off to the Saratoga Race Course meet and the official start of Saratoga’s whirlwind social season.

Honoree Linda Rice, who holds training titles from the Saratoga meet (2009), Belmont (spring/summer 2011 with Todd Pletcher), and Aqueduct (spring 2012), was surrounded by reporters and photographers when she arrived.

George R. Hearst III, chairman of the Center’s Foundation Board and its Endowment Board, and a member of the Governing Board of Directors, welcomed the crowd, and then Billy Fuccillo, of the Fuccillo Automotive Group, introduced Linda Rice. She was presented with an original James Fiorentino painting of City Zip, a favorite among the many horses she has trained. Center President & CEO Alan Krafchin offered his congratulations. Linda Rice was applauded by jockey John Velazquez and his wife, Leona; former New York State Senator Howard C. Nolan and his wife, Shannon; Bob and Monica Marini of Marini Builders, and Paul Carlucci, publisher of the New York Post, among others. At the end of the ceremony, Fuccillo drew gasps from onlookers when he announced a surprise donation of $50,000 to the Center.

Guests enjoyed a scrumptious summer buffet created by Siro’s executive chefs Tom Dillon, and his son, Brady Dillon, and their team of culinary experts. The music of the Electric City Horns brought people on to the dance floor in droves.
Others mingled with longtime friends and business associates discussing horse racing tips and summer plans.

“The Siro’s Cup brings so much positive attention to the Center for Disability Services and its mission. Every year, the hundreds of people who attend, including those who represent all aspects of horse racing, raise money and also focus community awareness on the programs and services we provide for the Center’s students and adult program participants,” said Anne Schneider Costigan, Deputy Executive Director of the Center’s Foundation.

Special recognition and appreciation to title sponsor Marini Builders, Bob and Monica Marini, the entire Siro’s Cup Committee, and the many volunteers who pitched in to create a wonderful and very successful event.

The evening raised more then $200,000 to benefit the Center’s Adult Services, Center Health Care, Clover Patch Camp, CloverPatch Pre-School, Langan School, Residential Services and St. Margaret’s Center.

Center for Disability Services
314 South Manning Boulevard, Albany, New York 12208 • 518-437-5700