BY
FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway
YONKERS, NY, Wednesday, December 20,
2017—Newly-appointed Yonkers Raceway director of racing Cammie Haughton met
with the Raceway’s drivers prior to last Saturday’s (Dec. 16th)
racing program.
The hour-long meeting included many subjects, all
designed to improve the product and thus, increase handle.
“I spoke with the drivers about making the racing
more exciting and competitive,” Haughton said. “More movement and no more
holes, which should eliminate slow quarters. That’s the first thing I want to
see.”
Other areas addressed including having Yonkers’ off
times away from other tracks, improving the track’s video and graphics
presentation. Also, perhaps changing to staggered starting gate with more of a
‘slant’ than the one currently in use, giving outside-drawing horses a better
chance.
There are also plans to improve Empire City Bets,
the Raceway’s ADW portal.
“Everyone I’ve spoken with is on the same page,”
Haughton said. “They understand Yonkers has the best harness product, and they
want to put out of the best possible presentation.”
The 2018 season, which is scheduled to begin with a
Sunday, Jan. 7th matinee (post time TBA, dates pending approval the
New York State Gaming Commission), may also find Yonkers doing away with the
passing lane (requested and pending NYSGC approval).
“The elimination of the passing lane and more
aggressive driving are going to make racing better,” Haughton said. “The purse
money is too good for the racing not to be contested at the highest level.
Management expects it and our fans expect it.”
“We appreciate the continued support of our racing
patrons, both on- and off-track, and Yonkers welcomes their feedback as we get
ready for 2018,” Raceway COO Bob Galterio said.
