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Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Heavenly Place Charges To Victory In Buffalo Raceway Feature

HAMBURG, N.Y. --- Heavenly Place won the cavalry charge to the wire and registered a determined head victory over Ugly Betty in the $10,500 Fillies and Mares Open Pace in 1:59.1 over a sloppy track at rainy Buffalo Raceway Wednesday evening (April 30).

It was a last-to-first place rally for Heavenly Place ($7.00) as the razor-sharp 6-year-old mare has now been in the money 11 of 12 races in 2014 including six victories.

The front-running St Lads Zena set the fractions to the third-quarter marker with times of 29.1, 59.2 and 1:29.3. As heads turned for home, the compact field of six all fanned out with a chance for the victory.

But it was Heavenly Place (David McNeight III), sitting sixth and last at the three-quarter pole, who was the widest and fastest in the race to the wire. The final panel of 29.0 was enough to edge out a hard-charging Ugly Betty (Jack Flanigen). Dontch Remember (Ray Fisher Jr.) finished in third place.

Owned by Chs Racing and Limerick Racing, Heavenly Place (Riverboat King-Angel Place) is trained by David McNeight Jr. The win pushed her winnings to $34,922 this year and $112,495 lifetime.

A busy weekend schedule at Buffalo Raceway kicks off on Friday night with a 13-race card slated for 6:40 p.m.

For more information including race replays, results, Kentucky Derby Day events at the track and more, go to www.buffaloraceway.com

by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway


WESTERN VINTAGE AMONG 22 ELIGIBLE TO NJ CLASSIC

 MANALAPAN, NJ – April 30, 2014 – Western Vintage, who swept last year’s New Jersey Sire Stakes for two-year-old colt pacers, is among the 22 eligibles for the $250,000 estimated Anthony Abbatiello New Jersey Classic while 29 fillies were nominated to the $125,000 estimated Thomas D’Altrui Miss New Jersey. 

Both stakes, which will be contested on August 2, 2014, Hambletonian Day at the Meadowland, are restricted to New Jersey-sired three-year-old pacers and are sponsored by the Standardbred Breeders & Owners Association of New Jersey.

Perry Soderberg of Hightstown, NJ, who owns Western Vintage in partnership with Marvin Katz of Toronto, is pointing his son of Western Ideal toward a return to the races in the New Jersey Sire Stakes, which begin on May 17 at the Meadowlands.

“Western Vintage qualified last Saturday [April 26] and was awesome,” said Soderberg, a bloodstock agent.  “Yannick [Gingras] just sat with him and then let him roll a bit down the stretch.  He won in 1:52.4 with a 26.1 at the end, in to a pretty strong head wind.  His heart rate was low afterwards and Yannick was very happy with him.

“The plan is to skip a week, then qualify again, then do the New Jersey Sire Stakes [May 17, 24 and 31] at the Meadowlands,” Soderberg explained.  “After that, we take it as it comes and let the horse tell us the schedule.  He has been strong, happy and loves to race, so we are aiming for the big ones.  The New Jersey Classic is on his stakes schedule, but we make more plans after the New Jersey Sire Stakes and see what suits us the best.”

Swedish-born Soderberg, who has been evaluating horses since 1986, usually picks out yearlings for others, primarily trainer Jimmy Takter and his owners.  But when no one wanted Western Vintage, he purchased the colt for himself for $7,000.  Katz bought an interest last October.

Western Vintage completed his two-year-old campaign with five wins and one second [in the Metro] from eight starts for earnings of $316,838.

“The horse jogged 1:49.4 at two [winning a stakes at Lexington’s Red Mile] and feels a lot stronger this year, so we are optimistic,” Soderberg noted.  “We, as all others, need some racing luck and the three-year-old pacers this year are good and many of them could show up.  So we have to wait and see how it plays out.”

This year’s New Jersey Classic eligibles represent 15 sons of Rocknroll Hanover, three by Cam’s Card Shark and two each by Tell All and Western Ideal.  The Miss New Jersey includes 19 by Rocknroll Hanover, seven by Western Ideal, two by Tell All and one by Cam’s Card Shark.

2014 Anthony Abbatiello New Jersey Classic Eligibles
Account Rollover, Beat The Drum, Bushwacker, Card Shock, Dancin Hill, Doo Wop Hanover, Earthshaker, Gold Rocks, In The Clear, Papa Fra, Rediscovery, Rock Fame, Rock Out, Rockeyed Optimist, Rocknroll Reality, Rockstar Stride, Say Uncle, Spanishtown, Sweet Rock, This Is Bill Byrne, Western Vintage, and Whisky N Pie.

2014 Thomas D'Altrui Miss New Jersey Eligibles
Act Now, Atsallrite Hanover, Beautiful Lady, Blixtra, Color Palette K, Cut A Deal, Fiyonce, Gettingreadytoroll, Highland Rockstar, I Need Hotstuff, Ideal Helen, Kate Can't Wait, Magnifique, Mako Wish, Mona Mona, My Lady Day, My Sweet Clara, Nikites, Poppies Pride, Rock N Roll Meg, Rockin Smile, Rockingcam Park, Rocknroll Queen, Rosie De Vie, She's Dangerous, Surfside Sexy, Val Di Noto, Wishfor Rocknroll, and Zip Zip Boom.


--From Carol Hodes for the SBOANJ
WIN $1 MILLION IN MEADOWLANDS RACING & ENTERTAINMENT’S ONE MILLION DOLLAR GOLF BALL DROP CONTEST
East Rutherford, NJ - Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment is giving one lucky fan a chance to win $1,000,000 in their first ever Million Dollar Ball Drop.  Guests can sign up every live racing night May 2 - July 11, with the Ball Drop taking place on Friday, July 25th. Each guest is allowed one entry per person, per live race day. After the close of entries, 500 names will be randomly selected and assigned a numbered golf ball.
During live racing on July 25, 500 numbered golf balls will be dropped from the top of a fire truck ladder onto a target area in the infield of the racetrack. If the golf ball closest to the target hole matches the pre-selected number in the sealed envelope, that guest wins $1,000,000.
However, if the ball dropped closest to the target area does not match the pre-selected number, the
guest still wins a 1st Place Prize of $5,000.00.*

Prizes will also be awarded for the next 24 closest golf balls to the target hole as follows:
2nd Place: $3,000.00
3rd Place: $1,500.00
4th Place: $1,000.00
5th Place: $500.00
6th- 15th Place: $100.00
16th-25th Place: $50.00

Complete Million Dollar Ball Drop rules and regulations can be found at PlayMeadowlands.com



Vernon adds Thursdays; Showdown Contest Kicks off May 1


by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media

Fans and horsemen alike are advised that Vernon Downs adds Thursday programs to their racing schedule beginning May 1.  Post time for Thursday cards will be 6:45 p.m., consistent with the Friday and Saturday evening start time.

This Thursday features a 10-race program, headlined by an $8,000 Miracle Mile 2-3 event for distaff pacers. Artic Byrd (Truman Gale) and Market Dynamics (Rick Plano) headline the field of nine mares to contest the ninth race on the card.


In addition to the usual offering of 50-cent trifecta, Pick 3, and Pick 4 wagers, this Thursday's program at Vernon marks the beginning of the $1,500 Showdown handicapping contest.  Players select one horse on each night of racing, advancing to the next night if their selected horse finishes third or better.  The last contestant remaining wins the $1,500 first prize.  For full details and to sign up, visit showdown.vernondowns.com.

Classy mare Haggin Oaks has been retired

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo Harness


The multiple stakes-winning pacing mare Haggin Oaks, who posed for pictures following 35 of her 116 starts while banking over $165,000, has been retired and will get to work on being a mother next season.

The 8-year-old is by Hi Ho Silverheels out of the Incredible Finale mare Ladyladybemylady and set her mark of 1:52 3/5 last year in New York over the five-eighths Tioga Downs oval.

Haggin Oaks was campaigned by Shari Burns, Ferris Funk and Jerry Cimini and was trained early in her career by Lester Smith before James Kennedy took over the duties, as well as being her regular pilot.

“We call her Liza, because her original name was Cherry Tree Liza,” Shari related. “She was bred by the late Alan Kirschenbaum and he decided to re-name all the yearlings that year after golf courses, which is how Haggin Oaks came about.”

Burns pointed out that in their 20-plus year friendship, Jerry Cimini and her husband Ferris had always wanted to campaign a horse together and couldn’t have found a better performer for the partnership.

“Liza was the last yearling left that year. She was a difficult 2 and 3-year-old and it took a lot of love and patience to make her a racehorse. I want to thank Jason Landers for keeping her feet in such great shape and that was not easy. Lester Smith also did a great job and has always been a big supporter of our farm.

“Of course, when James took out his trainer’s license, she was his first winner. For me, seeing the joy in my husband’s face and hearing the joy in Jerry’s conversations about this mare made it all worthwhile.

“It’s not too often someone gets the chance to own such a nice Cal-bred making well over $100,000 in California and we will now give her the life she deserves on the farm where she was born and raised. Hopefully she will produce a few more winners for Ferris and Jerry.”

Shari also noted the strong bond between Haggin Oaks and her driver/trainer Kennedy. “After the race, the first thing James does when he gets out of the sulky is to walk up to her head and give her a big hug.”

On just about every occasion, she earned it.

Sharpshootennorris headlines Open Trot

Sharpshootennorris, an impressive winner of two of his last three appearances at the top rung, looks to keep the momentum going in Friday night’s featured $5,000 Open Trot. He will do his work from the assigned No.10 post position.

An 11-year-old Canandian-bred son of Earl, Sharpshoootennorris carries the banner of Bette Jean Calice with Steve Wiseman doing the driving and training. He is looking to add to a $436,000 bank account with a 1:54 career standard that was established five years ago.

The hard-hitting veteran sat a pocket trip for Wiseman when he got the job done in the March 29 Open, was runner-up when coming from last in his next mile and then returned to his winning ways at most recent asking as he took the field coast-to-coast by two and a quarter lengths.

Franky Provolone was his nearest rival in that affair and has gone some big miles over this layout for owner Robin Clements and trainer Vickie Desomer and Mooney Svendsen has the call. Axle took the measure of a softer group last week over a sloppy track and has to be respected as he goes for owner/trainer George Reider and driver David Siegel.


EMPIRE CITY BETS SIGN-UP PROMOTION NOW RUNNING THROUGH JUNE

BY FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway

YONKERS, NY, Wednesday, April 30, 2014—“Held over by popular demand.”

Such is the case for Yonkers Raceway’s/Empire City Bets “Bet and Get” promotion, which was to end when April did but now has been carried over until through the end of June.

The promotion offers new ECB customers up to $300 in rewards, depending on their level of play.

“We’re very pleased with the response not only to Empire City Bets, but to the promotions as well,” Raceway general manager Bob Galterio said.  “It was designed to be the best ADW for regular Yonkers bettors, plus give significant rewards for all other major harness and thoroughbred tracks.

“If you don’t currently have an account, this is the best time to open one.”

For further information, as well as complete “Bet and Get” terms and conditions, please visit www.empirecitybets.com.

            The Raceway's five-night-per-week live schedule continues, with first post every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:10 PM. Evening simulcasting accompanies all live programs, with afternoon simulcasting available daily.

ITZAZIAM WINS 73G FINAL OF YR/SOA BONUS TROT SERIES

BY FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway

YONKERS, NY, Tuesday, April 29, 2014—Itzaziam (Pat Berry) closed relentlessly to pick of odds-on Bambino Glide (Dan Dube) Tuesday night, winning the $73,500 final of the Raceway/Standardbred Owners Association of New York Bonus Trotting Series.

Uninvolved  early from post position No. 3, Itzaziam saw Wisenheimer (Yannick Gingras) and 93-1 Swishnflick (Larry Stalbaum) both be put in the game early. Meanwhile, 1-4 fave Bambino Glide found himself parked two turns, finally getting the lead between a 28-second opening quarter-mile and a 57-flat intermission.

He continued his advantage in and out of the 1:26.3 three-quarters, with Itzaziam a seemingly-uninvolved sixth from third-over.

However, early troubles getting the lead would bit the favorite late. Itzaziam made up nearly five lengths through the rainy lane, getting to Bambino Glide by a half-length in 1:57.

Swishnflick nipped Wisenheimer for third, with Rock of Cashel (Jeff Gregory) grabbing the final pay envelope.

For Itzaziam, a 6-year-old Harry’s Star Ranger gelding co-owned by his driver & James Craparotta and trained by Frank Scamporino Jr., he returned $32.80 (fifth choice) for his sixth win (third consecutive) in a dozen seasonal starts.  The exacta paid $65.50, the triple returned $1,466 and the superfecta paid $3,676. 

“I was planning on leaving with him, but everyone else seemed to be leaving,” Berry said. “You can’t be too aggressive with him early, because he gets hot.

“Early on, I thought we had a shot,” Berry said. “At the three-quarters, I thought I’d be lucky to get third because there was a lot of traffic, but he just kept going.”

A $30,000 series consolation was won by Monroe County (George Brennan, $3.50) in 1:57.2.  

The Raceway's five-night-per-week live schedule continues, with first post every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:10 PM. Evening simulcasting accompanies all live programs, with afternoon simulcasting available daily.

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

MONTICELLO RACEWAY POSTPONES QUALIFIERS UNTIL THURSDAY

Monticello Raceway will postpone this weeks’ qualifying races until Thursday, May 1 due to the rainy forecast for tomorrow(Wednesday).

“The races have all been drawn but because of the impending inclement weather on Wednesday we’ll go with the same card on Thursday so there’s no need to re-enter,”  noted Eric Warner, the tracks director of racing.

Post time for the qualifiers on Thursday will be 10AM.


Meadowlands Creates Special Account for Television Broadcasting Support

The Meadowlands has set up a special account for industry participants and racing fans who have pledged support for the television broadcasts of the 2014 Little Brown Jug and the Meadowlands Pace which will air on CBS Sports Net.

“Ontario trainer Jack Darling first mentioned the idea of industry support for this project on his Standardbred Canada blog and the response to his challenge has been overwhelming,” said Jeff Gural, Chairman of New Meadowlands Racetrack.  “We’d like to thank everyone for helping to make this happen.  We intend to pursue other avenues to secure sponsorship, both within and outside of the industry, with the idea of being able to televise one of the Breeders Crown nights in addition to the Jug,  Hambletonian and the Meadowlands Pace.”     

“We realize TV is just part of the equation in the effort to promote and grow our sport,” said Meadowlands CEO and General Manager Jason Settlemoir.  “This is an opportunity for harness racing to work hand in hand with other companies and organizations to develop a synergy of social media efforts, television, and other strategies to benefit everyone involved and we are looking forward to this joint effort.”

Checks can be made out to and mailed to: 
Meadowlands Racetrack TV Fund
1 Racetrack Drive
East Rutherford, NJ  07073



Monday, April 28, 2014

SBOANJ 2014 GOLF OUTING SLATED FOR JULY 14

 MANALAPAN, NJ – April 28, 2014 – The annual golf outing to benefit New Jersey horsemen will take place this year on Monday, July 14, 2014.

The Standardbred Breeders & Owners Association of New Jersey’s fundraiser will once again take place at Gambler Ridge Golf Course in Cream Ridge, NJ, featuring a round of golf, a prime rib dinner and chances for door prizes, silent auction items and a 50-50. 

The fee is $180 per golfer.  The shotgun start is at 1 p.m., preceded by registration, starting at 11:30 a.m., and buffet lunch.  Dinner is at 6 p.m. and is available to non-golfers for $75.

The money raised through the golf tournament supports the SBOANJ Horsemen’s Benevolent Fund.

In 2013, the Benevolent Fund assisted struggling New Jersey horsemen with funeral expenses, rent, medical and other essentials.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, ranging from a golf hole sponsorship at $250; putting, longest drive and closest-to-the-pin contest sponsorships at $300 each; drink cart and lunch sponsorships at $500 each and dinner and hole-in-one sponsorships at $750 each.

Additionally, there are four levels of playing packages: $2,000 Platinum Sponsor [eight rounds of golf, hole sponsorship with name on cover and full page ad on inside front cover of the program], $1,500 Gold [four rounds of golf, hole sponsorship and full page ad on inside front or back cover of the program], $1,000 Silver [four rounds of golf and full page ad in program] and $500 Bronze [two rounds of golf and half page ad in program].

For more information, contact Leo McNamara or Polly Hartzell at the SBOANJ office at 732-462-2357.

--From Carol Hodes for SBOANJ

VERNON DOWNS TO HOST AREA’S BIGGEST KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY

Celebrate “the most exciting two minutes in sports” on Saturday, May 3

VERNON, NY (April 28, 2014) – The first Saturday in May is the most exciting day of the horse racing season and Vernon Downs is celebrating the Kentucky Derby with a full day of entertainment, style and winning for the whole family.

The day begins at 10:30 a.m. with the first live race from Churchill Downs. Fans can watch and wager on all of the day’s races leading up to the 140th Run for the Roses at 6:24 p.m.

Vernon Downs is giving one lucky fan a chance to make a “Derby Dream Bet.” One lucky fan will receive $1,000 to wager on one horse in the Kentucky Derby and of course, get to keep all of the winnings. A $1,000 win wager on last year’s Kentucky Derby champion would’ve returned $6,400.

In celebrating Kentucky Derby tradition, Vernon Downs will also host its annual $500 grand prize Derby Hat Contest with registration beginning at 2:30 p.m. and judging at 4:30 p.m. Mint juleps, the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, will also be available throughout the day.

Live racing from Vernon Downs begins at 5:10 p.m. The Gold Cup Buffet, with its expansive views of the racing action, will offer its extensive menu featuring grilled flank steak, baked ham, steamed clams and more for $14.99 for adults and $6.99 for children ages 5-10. Reservations are strongly recommended.


The party continues late into the night with popular dance band Soul Injection at Ring Eyed Pete’s in the casino from 9:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m.

Meadowlands Early and Late Pick Four minimum reduced to 50-cents

 Beginning with the Friday, May 2nd racing program at The Meadowlands, the minimum bet required for the Early and Late Pick Four wagers will be fifty-cents.  The decision was made due to the majority of customers expressin their desire for having the minimum bet for the two wagers reduced.

“For the past 18 months, this is something that we have been thinking about,” said Director of Racing Operations Darin Zoccali.  “I have posed the question several times to our customers and have utilized social media looking for input as well.  Over the past 18 months, I have seen a change in the majority opinion on the matter.  

Previously, the majority of our players liked the $1 minimum.  About one year ago, it became more of a 50/50 split.  Now, the majority of our players appear to prefer a $.50 cent minimum wager.  I have asked many of our customers, but the deciding factor was a recent poll we placed on Facebook, asking our customers if they prefer a $.50 cent or $1 minimum wager for the two pick four wagers.  The result was overwhelming with 86% of those responding opting for the $.50 cent minimum.”

“I understand there are some players who prefer the $1 minimum,” added Zoccali, “and I understand their argument for keeping it at $1.  The bottom line is the vast majority of bettors have voiced a preference for a reduction of the minimum to fifty cents and it would be bad customer service to not provide something the vast majority of our customers clearly want.  In addition, the pick five wager is thriving and it carries a fifty cent minimum wager as well.  We have kept our pick four minimum at $1 longer than just about any other racetrack, but the industry is evolving and we need to adapt to that evolution.  Additionally, I think this will lead to an increase in the average pool size for both wagers, which is something all our bettors would want.”


The $.50 cent minimum wager will be placed on both the Early Pick Four (Races 3 – 6) and the Late Pick Four (Races 7 – 10) effective Friday, May 2nd.

STEVE OLDFORD WINS THE FIRST RACE IN THIS YEARS BILLINGS SERIES AT MIAMI VALLEY RACEWAY

Steve “You’re Never Too” Oldford is on a roll. Actually he’s been on a roll ever since he began amateur driving in earnest back in 2006 at age 46.  A career winner of 85 races thus far, the bulk coming over the past six seasons, the Croswell, Michigan sales rep was in the winner’s circle again on Sunday evening, April 27 after he won the first race in the Midwest region of the 2014 C.K.G. Billings Harness Driving Series with Claim Jumper in a time of 1:58.4 at the new and beautiful Miami Valley Raceway, some 20 miles north of Cincinnati, Ohio.

By his own admission Oldford had perfect trip behind Southwind Nazareth and driver Ned “the Hilliard’s Hot-Shot” Hodkinson.

“I had a catch-drive and got a two- hole trip behind Ned (Hodkinson with Southwind  Nazareth) all the way and in the stretch my trotter (Claim Jumper) was the strong horse and we beat Ned by a couple of lengths, “Oldford related. “And we really have to thank race secretary Gregg Kiedel for going out of his way to see that this race filled.”

Third place went to Rewrite the Rules with “Lawbook Larry” Farley aboard.

Owned by Owen Eiler, Jr. and Marissa Tyler and trained by Ms. Tyler Claim Jumper paid $3.80 for win.

As aforementioned good things have happened for Oldford who is one of the busiest sportsmen in the game and one who would travel almost anywhere to drive a harness horse.

Last season Steve  was presented with USHWA’s National Amateur Driver of the Year Award at the scribes annual Dan Patch Awards Banquet in Dover, Delaware even though his wife and family mistakenly went to  Fort Lauderdale, Fla. ( but that’s another story). And he again earned the Harness Racing Museum’s Amateur Driver of the Year for the fourth time in the last six seasons.  Additionally,  Oldford wears a new moniker recently being named a vice president of the Harness Racing Museum and Hall of Fame, plus he’s again the vice president of the C.K.G. Billings Harness Driving Series.

“I’ve been a pretty lucky guy, ”Oldford admitted.

But rest assured luck has very little to do with his accomplishments.


The next action in the Billings Series will be at Freehold Raceway on Saturday, May 3rd in the eastern region  competition.

Sunday, April 27, 2014

SOMWHEROVRARAINBOW WINS 371G FINAL OF BLUE CHIP MATCHMAKER

BY FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway

YONKERS, NY, Saturday, April 26, 2014—It did rain Saturday night, but whether there was a rainbow afterward was uncertain.

What was not up for debate was Somwherovrarainbow (Brian Sears), who parlayed a pocket trip, winning Yonkers Raceway’s $371,400 final of the Blue Chip Matchmaker.

The Raceway’s marquee event for Open Mares saw the open draw shake out well for series points leader Yagonnakissmeornot (Dan Dube). Leaving from post position No. 2, the 3-5 fave had minimal issues getting around pole-squatting “Somwher.” 

It was soggy sub-stations of :27 and :55.4 before last season’s victress, Feeling You (Tyler Buter), was first to move from sixth. Then, Anndrovette (Tim Tetrick) slipped out from fourth while Yagonnakissmeornot found three-quarters in 1:23.4.

The lead was a length-and-a-half entering the lane. However, the people’s preference would be unable to close the sale. She bored out entering the lane, allowing Somwherovrarainbow more than ample acreage. The latter ducked in and edged past the former, winning by three-quarters of a length in 1:52.3. Third went to a rallying Krispy Apple (Jason Bartlett), with Anndrovette—those two coupled in the wagering—and Rocklamation (Yannick Gingras) completing the cashers.

Feeling You, Summertime Lea (Matt Kakaley)—Rocklamation’s partner—and Angel’s Delight (George Brennan) rounded out the order.

For second choice Somwherovrarainbow, a 4-year-old daughter of Somebeachsomewhere trained by Joe Holloway for co-owners Ted Gewertz and Diamond Creek Racing, she returned $6.90 for her fourth win in six seasonal starts. The exacta paid $10.80, with the triple returning $27.80.

“You never quite know how the race is going to play out,” Sears said. “I thought Anndrovette might leave, but obviously I had no problem sitting a two-hole.

“She’s had some foot issues and Joe (Holloway) made a shoeing change. I was a bit concerned going around the first turn, but she was smooth as silk.  She’s going to be a tough mare going forward.”

The victory in the sixth—and richest--Matchmaker makes “Somwher” harness racing’s newest millionairess ($1,138,009).

A $75,000 series consolation was won by Fashion Mystery (Eric Carlson, $43.80) in 1:55.4.  


            The Raceway's five-night-per-week live schedule continues, with first post every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:10 PM. Evening simulcasting accompanies all live programs, with afternoon 

Callahan Wins Legends vs. Phenoms Tourney. ‘Dovuto Rolls

The $30,000 final for the Legends vs Phenoms driving competition threaded through the Saturday night card at The Meadowlands with ten drivers competing over five races for the $15,000 first prize. Each driver was entitled to choose his mount in one of the five races and through the first three they proved to be prophetic with a chosen horse winning each of those races.

As the twelfth race came onto the track as many as six drivers had a chance at the top prize, though point leader Jim Morrill, Jr was forced to watch from the sidelines due to the scratch of his mount.

Corey Callahan seized that opportunity and put his mount, the 9/2 third choice Whataorse, in play early from post ten landing a pocket trip behind dueling leaders. Jim Marohn Jr. sent his charge Prince Sharka to the lead and parked Dave Miller through demanding fractions. When a seam opened in the stretch Callahan slipped through and although he could not track down race winner Stormin Rustler and Steve Smith he did finish second in the race amassing enough points to win the competition.

The final tally was Callahan 36 (winning $15,000), Morrill 35 ($5,000) and Marohn 34 ($3,000). All other drivers were awarded $1,000 for taking part in the competition.

Earlier on the evening, the W. N. Reynolds stake for three year old pacing colts, first Grand Circuit stake of the 2014 season at The Meadowlands, fielded nine nice colts looking for a positive start to their sophomore season. It came as the third race on the Saturday night card.

Always B Miki was moved to the front by Yannick Gingras between the 26.2 quarter and 55.4 half, that proved to be the winning move as the Always A Virgin colt sailed along unchallenged closing out the 1:50.3 mile with a 26.1 final stanza.

Allstar Partner followed the winner and held second easily in his first start of the new season and The Lunch Pail finished third.

Always B Miki’s trainer Joe Holloway has stated that he’s giving the colt a chance to make the varsity team and stay with the East Coast string, even keeping him eligible to the Meadowlands Pace. As though he knows what hangs in the balance “Miki” has been making his case with impressive performances and is moving forward with each start.

Owned by the Bluewood Stable, Val D’Or farms and Roll The Dice Stable, Always B Miki won’t have to worry about a red tag and a bus ticket waiting for him in his stall back at Showplace Farms anytime soon.

The $30,000 A-2/FFA Handicap Pace was again the stage for Dovuto Hanover to display his irresistible late kick in 1:49.4. Taken back to last in the field of seven by Scott Zeron, Dovuto was as many as a dozen lengths from pacesetter Golden Receiver through soft fractions of 55.4 for the half and 1:23.3 for three quarters.

Zeron navigated his charge into a second over position following Emeritus Maximus into the stretch, fanned off that cover when they straightened up and took virtually the length of the stretch to wear the leader down.  Dovuto Hanover once again paced a 25.2 final quarter. Emeritus Maximus edged Golden Receiver for second.

Darran Cassar trains the winner for Martin Scharf.


Racing returns on Friday night with the Simpson for three year old filly pacers and the three year old colt and gelding pacers do battle in the Simpson on Saturday.  Friday night features the opening of Victory Terrace, The Meadowlands rooftop bar and lounge and Saturday features the Kentucky Derby simulcast, with gates opening at 9:30 A.M.  Live harness racing on both Friday and Saturday is set for 7:15 P.M.

P H SUPERCAM WINS 567G FINAL OF LEVY SERIES

BY FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway

YONKERS, NY, Saturday, April 26, 2014—“At the half, I knew I was in trouble.”

Such was the post-mortem of one Yannick Gingras after Foiled Again—despite everything seemingly going his way—faded to third Saturday night in Yonkers Raceway’s early-rain-impeded $567,000 final of the George Morton Levy Memorial Pacing Series.

“Trouble” was of no consequence of P H Supercam (Jason Bartlett), the reformed claimer who scooted up the passing lane to win North America’s richest race of the season to date and the richest edition in this race’s history.

At the outset of the 27th Levy—honoring the Hall of Fame founder of Roosevelt Raceway—it was as expected. Foiled Again, eying a third series title, was in play from post position No. 3. He worked around pole-sitting Sapphire City (Eric Carlson), with P H Supercam—from post No. 2—away third.  

Meanwhile, Bettor’s Edge (George Brennan), coupled with Foiled Again as the 7-10 favored entry, left enough from post No. 6 to act as a traffic impediment. A :27.2 opening quarter led to a spongy :56.2 intermission, and the sport’s richest-ever looked to be comfy.

Going toward the 1:24.4 three-quarters, Dancin’ Yankee (Ron Pierce) went wide, while Apprentice Hanover (Jody Jamieson) wound up from last.

Foiled Again owned a length-and-a-quarter lead entering the lane, but this was not to be his finest hour.

P H Supercam rallied inside, while “Apprentice” closed like a train outside. In the end, the shorter route was the better route, with “Supercam” whipping Apprentice Hanover by a neck in 1:52.3. Foiled Again settled for third—beaten three-quarters of a length—with Sapphire City and Dancin’ Yankee grabbing the minor awards.

Texican N (Brian Sears), Bettor’s Edge and Mach it So (Tim Tetrick)—coupled with the winner--completed the order.

For second choice P H Supercam, a 7-year-old Million Dollar Cam gelding owned by Bamond Racing and trained by PJ Fraley, he returned $6.40 for his third win in a dozen seasonal starts.  The exacta paid $49.20, with the triple returning $105.50.

“I love him,” Bartlett—who won this race (ironically, with Foiled Again) in 2010—said. “He’s so quick, and once he saw the hole, he just exploded.

“It’s a horse race, and even if Foiled Again wasn’t at his best, mine was tremendous. It’s a big honor to win a race like this.”

As for the runner-up, “He was awesome,” Jamieson said. “I wish I had a better trip, but he proved himself to me, (trainer) Ben (Wallace) and everyone.”  

A $100,000 series consolation was won by Clear Vision (Brennan, $2.10, part of entry) in 1:53.


Stonebridge Master rallies in Vernon feature; Medusa remains undefeated

by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media

After prevailing against similar company a fortnight ago and finishing a respectable second to Fireyourguns in last week's top pacing event, Kelly Hope's Stonebridge Master ($3.00) took top honors in Saturday (April 26) evening's $8,000 Miracle Mile 2 Pace at Vernon Downs, posting a 1:54.2 victory in going-away fashion over sloppy going.

The eight-year-old Artsplace gelding raced patiently from off the pace, tracking live cover from Western Trademark (Fern Paquet, Jr.) before swinging three-wide in upper stretch.  At immediate asking from Aaron Byron, Stonebridge Master powered clear of his four rivals, winning by a widening 1-1/4 lengths over Western Trademark, while pacesetter Sheer Brilliance (Claude Huckabone, III) was worn down late, finishing third.

Earlier in the card, a pair of $4,000 second round divisions of the Anthony Farina Pacing Series were contested, in which William Donovan's Medusa ($2.30) remained undefeated through three career races.  The three-year-old Bettor's Delight fully controlled a :58 half mile before pushing clear on the far turn, scoring a 1:55.2 win by a 6-1/2 length margin in rein to Chris Lems.  Joseph Meylan's Stony Brook ($3.30) prevailed in the other division, scoring a 5-length win in 1:56.1.


Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Thursday, May 1, with the first of 10 races scheduled for 6:45 p.m. EDT.  The upcoming Thursday card marks a switch to a three-night weekly schedule at Vernon, as well as the beginning of the Showdown Handicapping Contest, worth $1,500 to the last contestant standing.  Visit showdown.vernondowns.com for further details.

Salazar Wires Field In Buffalo Raceway Open Pace

HAMBURG, N.Y. --- It was unfamiliar territory for Salazar but it was a spot he quickly became comfortable with. 

Salazar finally got a look at what life is like on the inside. It was heaven as he strolled around the Buffalo Raceway oval, going gate-to-wire in the $10,500 Open Pace on Saturday night (April 26).

The heavily-favored Salazar ($2.60) has started the last eight times in the five post or worse. Despite the horrendous starting positions, the 8-year-old gelding has been more than competitive in the Opens finishing no worse than fourth including one victory. So the post relief was much appreciated.

Starting from the rail, Salazar went right to the lead for driver Ron Beback Jr. and put up fractions of 28.1, 58.1, and 1:27. en route to a season best 1:55 winning time over the fast track. He had a comfortable length advantage at the top of the stretch and the scorching 27.3 final quarter had the remainder of the field in surrender mode. Sand Savage Drew Monti) finished 3-1/2 lengths back in second while Fantasypan (John Cummings Jr.) was third.

Owned by Lisa Denison and trained by Lisa Lederhouse, Salazar (McArdle-January Spur) has now scored four victories in 14 appearances this season. He has earned $29,072 in 2014 and $247,656 lifetime.

The racing will resume on Wednesday night at Buffalo Raceway with a 13-race program scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.

For more information including upcoming promotions, race replays, results and the latest news, go to www.buffaloraceway.com


by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway

SARCASTIC MAN TAKES DEXTER ELIM

 MANALAPAN, NJ – April 26, 2014 – Sarcastic Man had the last laugh, winning the $38,460 elimination race for the Dexter Cup for three-year-olds trotters, the ninth race on Saturday, April 26, 2014 at Freehold Raceway.

Even-money favorite Well Built, driven by John Campbell, was the only one of the nine starters to fail to advance to the $115,370 Dexter Cup Final on May 3.  The Muscle Hill colt broke stride before the quarter pole, rallied to finish seventh across the wire but was placed ninth for interfering with Dave Briggs and Donato’s Wish, who were placed ahead of him.

Sarcastic Man [$26.40, $8.60, $5.80], driven by Ron Pierce and trained by Gail Wrubrel, held on for a length and a quarter victory in 1:59.2, a career best.  The son of Tom Ridge, bred and owned by Robert J. Key of Leechburg, PA, picked up his third win of the both the year and his 29-race career for a total bankroll of $104,011.

King City [$16.80, $8.60], by Muscle Hill, won the photo for second over Sumatra [$2.80], a Muscles Yankee colt.

In addition to Sarcastic Man, King City and Sumatra, the Dexter Cup finalists will be Consumer Rate, Sheer Action, Derby, Dave Briggs and Donato’s Wish.


--Carol Hodes for SBOANJ

Meadowlands Qualifying Report for April 26

Saturday morning qualifiers at The Meadowlands were conducted over a track that was dry but dulled by overnight rain with spring-like temperatures and a steady 10-15 mph breeze from the west (against the wind in the homestretch).

The first race for 3YO filly trotters and Lifetime Pursuit led virtually all the way to win in 1:58.4 / 28.4 for Yannick Gingras. She is one of fourteen programmed to qualify this morning from the Jimmy Takter stable. Brittany Farms bred and owns the Cantab Hall filly who made $270k and took a record of 1:52.3 as quietly as could be facing the deepest group of trotting fillies in memory last season.

The queen of that crop, Shake It Cerry was up next and she held off a challenge on both sides to win in 1:58 /29 for Ron Pierce. Takter conditions her for Solveig’s Racing Partners. Highest Peak and Scream And Shout threaten the winner in solid efforts.

Takter swept the early pick three (which would have paid around $8) with Trixton, and he was really powerful today for Jimmy. Martiniwithmuscle left from post ten and set fractions through the 1:29.2 three panels when Takter edged Trixon from the pocket and rolled on by under no urging in 1:57.2. The highest priced trotting yearling of 2012 at $360,000 was a striking but at times immature looking baby last season that has clearly grown into a man. Nuncio, also now a Takter trainee, was quite settled in his soph debut sitting comfortably in third for John Campbell and offering a mild close.

The fifth race for 3yo colt trotters looked like a Hambo elimination. Father Patrick made his debut here for Takter and caught a loaded field with the headstrong Odds On Amethyst dragging Tim Tetrick through hot numbers of 27.4, 56, and 1:24.3 with Father Patrick guided into an early tuck third by Gingras. Odds On Amethyst was well clear into the stretch and held for the 1:54.1 win though visibly tiring in a solid effort. Father Patrick was shown racetrack only in the last eighth, closing willingly to be second in a purposeful mile. Valley Victory stake winner Muscle Network made his first appearance, was taken back with willing trot late in what amounted to a charted workout.

Older trotters took the track next and Corky was another winner from the Takter barn. Jimmy drove the four year old in his third qualifier and sat the pocket behind Fico, tipped as they straightened up and went by under his own power. D’Orsay sat in comfortably throughout and gained late for second. Swedish champion Sebastian K, a stunning individual on the track, followed along and had trot in the stretch under no urging from Swedish trainer Ake Svanstedt who was making his first appearance at The Meadowlands this morning.

Maven and Market Share (Photo by Ken Weingartner)
After a warm up break in the action, one of the day’s marquee match ups, a battle of the sexes pitting Market Share against Maven came around. On this day Maven struck a blow for equality with a 1:54- win over her male rival. Yannick sent her right to the top and sailed along through the 1:25.2 three panels with Market Share on his back. Tetrick never tipped Market Share, had a clear shot up the inside but did not gain while maintaining a comfortable hold with Maven under confident handling and well within herself.


With sun and wind making the track faster as the morning wore on, next up were the pacing portion of today’s races. Hunger Games held off Uffizi Hanover in 1:54 for Ron Pierce, home in 27.3 in the first of these. She’s a Somebeachsomewhere lass who accomplished little at two but trainer Linda Toscano has her looking like a winner this year.

Gettingreadytoroll won another qualifier for Takter/Gingras in 1:53.4 / 27- and was once again visually impressive. She had but a single start last year but surely has the look of a stakes filly. Sanbetweenurtoes and Ken Doll J followed her under the wire, both offering solid efforts.

Capital Account is back. The American Ideal colt was given a respite after his second in the Buddy Gilmour final and looked good and safe this morning, winning in 1:54 / 27.3 for Gingras / Takter / Brittany. Somewhere Fancy (Toscano) was a good second in this one.

Western Vintage made his came out this morning and won from well off the pace in 1:52.4 / 27- with his individual last quarter in around 26 flat under no urging at all. Gingras drove for trainer Nancy Johansson and owners Perry Soderberg and Marvin Katz. Maxi Bon closed to be second and Sweet Talkin Clyde was a restrained third after a couple of moves in a good effort.

In the twelfth race, Scott Zeron directed That’s My Opinion to the front from his outside post with Tellitlikeitis (Gingras) on his back through the 56.1 half and 1:24.2 three quarters. In the stretch, Gingras drew from the pocket and away they went mano a mano through a 26.4 last quarter with Tellitlikeitis getting the nod over That’s My Opinion in 1:51.1. Takter trains the winner.

Warrawee Needy is a very fast horse. Actually, he is one of three (Somebeachsomewhere and Holborn Hanover the others) to hold the World Race Record of 1:46.4, taken last season right here. After two preps at Pocono, he went 1:50- this morning for Tim Tetrick, looking powerful under just a few gentle reminders through the stretch. He appears ready for the wars off that effort.

Sweet Lou wrapped up the day’s events with an uneventful 1:52.1 / 27.1 tour on the front on his own. Odds On Equuleus looked good and passed the top mare Drop The Ball late in the stretch to be second.

Live racing tonight at 7:15 with the Reynolds Memorial Grand Circuit stake and the $30,000 final of the Legends vs Phenoms drivers’ competition.


Results and charts of today’s qualifiers are available at The Meadowlands website.

Saturday, April 26, 2014

Paquet Sweeps Vernon Features; Brunet Trotters Shine in Burton

 by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media

Driver Fern Paquet, Jr. swept the evening's pair of $8,000 Miracle Mile feature events at Vernon Downs on Friday (April 25) evening, rallying to circle the field with Asset Management ($19.60) in the Fillies and Mares Miracle Mile 2-3 Pace, and prevailing in the nick of time aboard Jaipur ($8.20) in the Miracle Mile 2 Trot.

In a change of tactics from the last two weeks, Asset Management dropped to last, biding her time well off a pressured pace before mounting a three-wide rally at the top of the stretch.  The six-year-old Western Hanover mare gobbled up ground willingly, eclipsing the pace-setting Market Dynamics (Rick Plano) in deep stretch, pulling clear for a 2-3/4 length win in 1:52.3, capped by a torrid :26.2 final quarter.  Artic Byrd (Truman Gale) was a narrow third, flattening off a first-over bid.

Jaipur took a similar path to victory in the trotting feature, making a massive three-wide push in the final quarter mile, passing horses steadily en route to a slim triumph over the pacesetting House Money (Roman Lopez) for a 1:54.4 victory.  Painite (Truman Gale) rallied late to save third after breaking at race's outset.

A trio of divisions of the Catherine Burton trotting series were contested, with Wild and Crazy Guy (1:56.1) and Driving Miss Crazy (1:56.2) giving Gaetan Brunet a training and driving double on the evening.  Indira Blue Chip (1:57.1) prevailed in the non-wagering division for trainer-driver Ray Schnittker.


Live racing returns on Saturday evening with a 6:45 p.m. first post, and Thursdays are added to the schedule on May 1, with post time slated for 6:45 p.m. on Thursday evenings as well.

Modern Family Powerful in Free For All Trot at The Meadowlands

 Friday nights at The Meadowlands customarily feature the top class mare pacers and the cream of the trotting crop. This was the course of events for the April 25 card with the mares up first in the second half of the Daily Double.

The Sweetheart stakes winner from 2012, Jerseylicious opened her four year old season in style with a 1:51.2 win in a $22,500 B-1/A-2 on Friday night at The Meadowlands. A nine time winner while amassing nearly $300,000 as a sophomore, the Western Ideal mare cashed in on a perfect steer from Corey Callahan to score over Scandalous Hanover and Marty Party.  Jerseylicious began her three year old season a perfect eight for eight and so far she is one for one in 2014.

Wayne Givens trains Jerseylicious for Legacy Racing of Delaware and Pamela Curran.

A strong field of trotters took the track for the $30,000 eleventh race feature. Modern Family came in with credentials that drew play enough from the punters to go off as the short 3-5 favorite and he did not disappoint.

Tim Tetrick was designated to drive the Cantab Hall horse by trainer and part owner Daryl Bier and Tim landed a pocket trip behind Daylon Magician that proved to be the path to victory. Drafting along behind honest fractions led to a near track record 1:51.1 mile. Uncle Peter was a brave second in his first start as a five year old and Daylon Magician held third.

Bier’s partners are Charles Dombeck and Richard Poillucci. The whole gang is likely looking forward to the Arthur Cutler Memorial two weeks hence and beyond.

The $25,000 Dash For The C Notes, a weekly staple during the spring racing season devised by Director of Racing Peter Koch, facilitated the C-2 trotters and March Awareness took home the top prize for Carolyn Brechler and John Rhodes, Jr of Ohio.

Driver Scott Zeron put the Ken Warkentin gelding on the lead going to the half and held sway for a comfortable 1:54 win. Brookroad Knight took the place and For You Almost Free held on for the show after a first over trip. The Remmen stable conditions the winner.

Racing returns on Saturday with first post time at 7:15 P.M., featuring the first stake of the year as the grand circuit makes a stop at The Meadowlands for the three year old pacers in The Reynolds Stakes.  Additionally, Saturdays Revived continues at Victory Nightclub with music from 92.3 Now’s D.J. Toro.  Doors at Victory open at 10:00 P.M.  For more, check out playmeadowlands.com.


SUPER MANNING WINS FRIDAY NIGHT 38G OPEN HANDICAP TROT

BY FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway

YONKERS, NY, Friday, April 25, 2014—Super Manning (Matt Kakaley) took advantage of a late-race rest stop Friday night, winning Yonkers Raceway’s $38,000 Open Handicap Trot.

In no particular hurry from post position No. 5, Super Manning’s job became easier when 8-5 choice Coraggioso (Brian Sears) jumped it off leaving and went off the course. That allowed eight-hole assignee DW’s NY  Yank (George Brennan) to work around 60-1 He’sgotlegs (Larry Stalbaum) before a 28-second opening quarter-mile.

The leader, a perfect 6-for-6 here this season entering this race, then rated a :57.4 intermission before Super Manning began his stroll from sixth. He was able to grab a breather when the longshot in the pocket dropped anchor before a 1:26.4 three-quarters.

“DW” opened a couple of lengths entering the lane, with Super Manning again taking up the chase. He chased, then caught, the leader, wining by a measured neck in 1:55. Third—4½ lengths away--went to Backstreet Hanover (Tyler Buter), with Blacktuxwhitesocks (Jordan Stratton) and Fortunista (Eric Carlson) coming away with the lesser pay envelopes.

For second choice Super Manning, a 6-year-old Diamond Goal homebred owned by Joseph Pennacchio and trained by Kevin Carr, he returned $6.10 for his second win in 10 seasonal starts. The exacta paid $18.40, with the triple returning $63.

Saturday night’s million-dollar stakes program is led by North America’s two richest races of the season to date, the Raceway’s $567,000 final of the George Morton Levy Memorial Pacing Series (11th race) and the $371,400 final of the Blue Chip Matchmaker (9th race).

The field for the Levy (approximate post time 10:55 PM)…. 1-Sapphire City (Eric Carlson, 15-1), 2-P H Supercam (Jason Bartlett, 5-1), 3-Foiled Again (Yannick Gingras, 3-5), 4-Texican N (Brian Sears, 20-1), 5-Apprentice Hanover  (Jody Jamieson, 8-1), 6-Bettor’s Edge (George Brennan, 3-5), 7-Dancin’ Yankee (Ron Pierce, 5-1), 8-Mach it So (Tim Tetrick, 5-1).

Note P H Supercam/Mach it So race as a Bamond Racing owned-P J Fraley trained entry, while Foiled Again/Bettor’s Edge race as a Ron Burke owned-trained entry. Foiled Again—subject of the night’s T-shirt giveaway--and his $6.1 million career bankroll are going for a Levy title hat trick.

The Matchmaker (approximate post 10:05 PM) goes as such…1-Somwherovarainbow (Sears, 9-6), 2-Yagonnakissmeornot (Dan Dube, 8-5), 3-Rocklamation (Gingras, 5-1), 4-Anndrovette (Tetrick, 3-1), 5-Krispy Apple (Bartlett, 3-1), 6-Feeling You (Tyler Buter, 10-1), 7-Angel’s Delight (Brennan, 15-1), 8-Summertime Lea (Matt Kakaley, 5-1).  

Note Rocklamation/Summertime Lea race as a Ron Burke owned-trained entry, while Anndrovette/Krispy Apple race as a Bamond Racing/Davino-owned, P J Fraley trained entry.   

A pair of series consolations, worth $100,000 (Levy) and $75,000 (Matchmaker), go as races 8 and 10, respectively.  

            The Raceway's five-night-per-week live schedule continues, with first post every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:10 PM. Evening simulcasting accompanies all live programs, with afternoon simulcasting available daily.

Absolutely Certain Gets Job Done In Buffalo Raceway Open Trot

HAMBURG, N.Y.--- Absolutely Certain bobbled at the start of the $10,500 Open Trot at Buffalo Raceway Friday night (April 25) but overcame the slight miscue and left little doubt who was the best at the finish line in registering a half-length victory over Heartsaregonnaroll.

When the starting gate swung open, Absolutely Certain broke stride momentarily but driver Drew Monti did a great job getting him back on gait and keeping him in race. Settling in fourth after the misstep, Absolutely Certain ($9.70) went first over just before the half and chased the pace-setting Heartsaregonnaroll (Kevin Cummings) from there.

In the stretch, Absolutely Certain showed plenty of trot and breezed past the leg-weary Heartsaregonnaroll while the lukewarm favorite Ramblin Rick (Greg Merton) took the show position. The final time was 2:02.4 over the sloppy track.

The victory was the first in 11 starts for Absolutely Certain (Malabar Man-River Runs Wild). He is owned by Garry Martin and trained by Sue Stockwell. The win pushed the 6-year-old gelding's earnings to $13,782 in 2014 and $91,773 lifetime.

The racing continues on Saturday night at Buffalo Raceway with a 13-race card slated to begin at 6:40 p.m. The feature is the $10,500 Open Pace which is scheduled as the eighth race.

For more information including race results, replays, upcoming promotions news, go to www.buffaloraceway.com

by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway


Friday, April 25, 2014

Grand Circuit Contributes to Televise Top Stakes

The Grand Circuit has chosen to support the initiative started by Jack Darling and will contribute to the fund created for sponsoring the television broadcast of The Little Brown Jug and Meadowlands Pace in 2014.

Grand Circuit President John Campbell had this to say on the decision, "By offering our support, we at the Grand Circuit are following our mandate to promote and support open stakes racing.  These are two marquee races on the Grand Circuit schedule and having them televised only adds to their prestige. We wish both The Meadowlands and Little Brown Jug Society success in this unique and exciting endeavor."


The Grand Circuit brand includes all open Standardbred stakes raced across North America. Information on the races may be accessed by visiting the Grand Circuit website or Facebook page.  

ENJOY THE “MOST EXCITING TWO MINUTES IN SPORTS” –OPENING OF VICTORY TERRACE & DERBY DAY AT MEADOWLANDS RACING & ENTERTAINMENT

/EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment is racing into May with a weekend of excitement. Opening on May 2nd is Victory Terrace, the sprawling outdoor rooftop lounge on top of the $100 million dollar race track and entertainment complex. Victory Terrace will offer table service, happy hour specials, and amazing city views.

Designed with quality in mind, customers can enjoy the finest in dining with table service, as well as happy hour and late night entertainment. On Fridays, enjoy “Friday Nights: Under the Lights” beginning at 5pm, with a Top 40 music Happy Hour running until 9pm, then let the party go late into the evening with Vocal House Anthems from 9pm to 2am.

 The following day, Saturday, May 3rd, join Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment – donning big hats, stylish sun dresses, and bold pastels or khakis – for a full day of simulcast & live racing action, including the 140th running of the Kentucky Derby from Churchill Downs. Beginning at 9:30am, bettors can make their wagers and enjoy food and bourbon specials, as well as enter to win prizes all day in honor of Derby Day.

Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment will open at 9:30am with free admission, and free T-shirts exclaiming “Keep Calm and Derby On” distributed to the first 8,000 guests. Before a full day of racing and partying, get in a complete meal at Victory Sports Bar & Club. Victory will be serving a continental breakfast from 9:30 – 11:00am and a Derby themed buffet beginning at 11:30am for $39.95. Dishes will include sides and starters like Southern Potato Salad, Tangy Cole Slaw, and Sweet Potato & Pecan Mash, entrees like Glazed Baby Back Ribs and Pulled Pork Sandwiches, and assorted pastries and cookies for dessert.  For reservations call 201-THE-BIG-M (201-843-2446).

All day, enjoy Woodford Reserve bourbon, the “Official Bourbon of the Kentucky Derby,” and bourbon specials around the complex including mint juleps and other libations served in a commemorative Derby glass (while supplies last).

Ladies are welcome to express their inner Southern Belle and enter the $500 Grand Prize Hat 
Contest with no boundaries on how stylish and over-the-top the headwear can go. Signup between 2:00pm to 4:45pm with the judging at 5:00pm.

The best seat in the house may be the track’s apron and Grandstand where the “140th Run for the Roses” will be simulcast on the 18’x48’ infield HD video screen. 

After the Derby, guests are welcome to enjoy a night full of live harness racing at the Meadowlands with the first post time set for 7:15pm.  Pink, the tiered dining room with perfect views of the live racing action, will feature a few Southern inspired menu options on their $39.95 3-course menu.  Pink will open at 5 pm and reservations are strongly recommended. To reserve a table call 201-THE-BIG-M (201-843-2446).

Prizes continue into the night with scratch-off cards where customers can win up to $500 instantly and Horseplay, both beginning at 6:00pm. Buy a horse for $1 with all proceeds in the month of May donated to the American Red Cross, and throw the horse into the car for a chance to win entry into the August 2nd car drawing for a Scion FRS.

 To make reservations or book your private event, call (201) 843-2446 or email catering@playmeadowlands.com.