It's the eve of the biggest weekend during the Saratoga meet. People are already in the Spa City getting ready for the 143rd running of the Travers Stakes. Maria Valvanis has more from Saratoga Springs.

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SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. -- There is quite a bit of excitement in the Spa City as we're now less than 24 hours away from the biggest race of the summer meet at the Saratoga Race Course.

Thousands of people filled the bars and restaurants in Downtown Saratoga Springs ahead of the Travers Stakes. This year marks the 143rd edition of the midsummer derby.

Some of the top horses in the country will be competing for a one million dollar purse and racing fans come from near and far to enjoy the weekend of racing.

"It's dry, no rain, and we're going to breakfast tomorrow. It's fun to see the horses work out," said Virginia resident Tricia O’Hara.

"This particular weekend is worth the wait any extra time you have to spend on the road is worth it," said Saratoga resident Daniel Lee Wilt.