The Return of Marylou Whitney

By Thomas Dimopoulos
Published in The Saratogian

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Marylou Whitney has been known to make grand entrances in the past, but when the popular socialite and philanthropist made an appearance in the Winner’s Circle at the Saratoga Race Course Saturday, she was greeted with a standing ovation from the large crowd who were happy to see her appear simply as herself.

Whitney, who is a highly visible fixture on the summer scene here, was making her first public appearance since suffering a stroke Memorial Day weekend.

“She’s a wonderful lady and it’s a big thrill to see her,” offered race fan Helen Coady, who made the trip in from Plattsburgh, and who has been coming to the racecourse for the past 40 years.

“It’s very special that she is here to present the trophy,” said Bill Nader, senior vice president and chief operating officer for the New York Racing Association.
“Knowing the work she been going through with her therapy and having her here is a very special moment for Saratoga,” Nader said.

The 79th running of the Whitney Handicap was the ninth race on the day and moments after Invasor crossed the finish line to secure the victory, a car pulled up on the track with Whitney and husband John Hendrickson inside.

Wearing a bright pink hat and matching dress, Whitney stepped gingerly into the winner’s circle where a a table set with white linen showcased the silver trophy to be presented.
She turned and waved to the crowd, many of whom responded with a standing ovation.

“It’s a true milestone in her recovery knowing how hard she is working with her therapy,” said Maureen Lewi, who was with the woman many call simply “Marylou,” when she had the stroke.
“I know she missed being here, but she is so determined in her recovery, and I’m so happy to see her here,” Lewi said.

A moment later Whitney returned to the car, and rolling down its window raised her hands to her lips and blew kisses to the crowd who cheered the grand exit of the woman born on a Christmas Eve in 1925, watching her go.