Food, Fun & Racing at the Meadowlands Racetrack

 

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment’s Championship Meet runs through Hambletonian Day, Saturday, August 6^th.   Live racing takes place every Friday and Saturday night plus Thursday, June 30, July 7 and August 4 with a 6:20pm post time. Post time on Hambletonian Day, August 6 is 12 noon.

 Every live race night fans can enter Horseplay. Pick up a free horse at the promotions table and throw the horse into the car for a chance to win $100 and an entry into the Friday, August 5^th drawing for a brand new 2022 Toyota Corolla.

 Saturday, July 2^nd is Fan Appreciation & Fireworks Night. Fans can enjoy $1 hot dogs, popcorn, soda and $2 Bud and Bud Lights.  Plus following the races fans are encouraged to stay for the free fireworks show. 

 Then on Saturday, July 9^th the annual BBQ Extravaganza returns to the track on Meadowlands Pace eliminations night.  $2,500 is up for grabs in the Battle with $500 top prizes for the best brisket, chicken, pulled pork and ribs. Attending food trucks include Magic Mike’s Smoked Meats, Latin Bites, El Lechon De Negron, Oak Burn BBQ, Gentle Giant Brewing, DAW Concessions, My Delicious BBQ, Smokin’ Joe’s, Clyde’s Homemade Italian Ice and Ice Cream, Michael’s Backyard BBQ, Smoke Shed BBQ, The Empanada Truck, Carnival Concessions, Antojitos de mi Tierra and Cat Like Reflexes.

Saturday, July 16^th it’s the Meadowlands signature night-time event – The Meadowlands Pace! On the track, $2.5 million in stakes is up for grabs including the top 3 year old pacers competing for the $700,000 Meadowlands Pace title. Fans can enjoy food from local food trucks, ride the mechanical shark, win a prize at the carnival games and grab a “settin’ the pace since ‘77” t-shirt (while supplies last).  Those that are 30 and under can enter the free handicapping contest for a chance to win their share of $5,000.  Details can be found at https://playmeadowlands.com/pace/

Saturday, July 23 is the $30,000 Jackpot Sweepstakes. Beginning at 6:45 pm there will be a name called every 15 minutes to win various cash prizes.  If the cash prize goes unclaimed (winners are given 15 minutes to claim prize), it is rolled into the next drawing. The drawings are held every 15 minutes – 6:45 – 11:30pm. Registration to win your share is free and can be found online at $30,000 Progressive Sweepstakes Entry Form | Cognito Forms

The always popular Seafood Festival is scheduled for Saturday, July 30^th.  There will be a raw bar in the Backyard and a variety of food trucks serving up some of the best seafood in the Garden State including fried clams, fish tacos, crab fries, lobster rolls and much more! Participating food trucks include Fresh Catch Streats, DAW Concessions, The Little Sicilian, Cousins Maine Lobster, Latin bites, Magic Mike’s Smoke Meats, My Delicious BBQ, Angry Archie’s, The Mozzarella God, The Empanada Truck, Cat Like Reflexes and Clyde’s Homemade Italian Ice and Ice Cream.

 The race meet wraps up on Saturday, August 6^th with the greatest day in harness racing - $1 million Hambletonian Day.   Doors open at 10 am with first race at 12 noon.  Admission is $5 and includes a commemorative Hambo baseball cap for adults and children.  Fans can enjoy carnival rides and games, food trucks, pony rides, live music and much more. Admission and table seating can be purchased at https://playmeadowlands.com/hambletonian-news/

 For a complete list of nightly events, promotions and updated racing calendar please visit PlayMeadowlands.com.  Buffet dining reservations can be made by calling 201-The-BigM (201-843-2446).

 Reminder, guests must be 18+ to wager; 21+ to gamble on sports.  Gambling problem? Call 1-800-Gambler.

‘BULLDOG’ GRADUATES IN 1:47 AT BIG M

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – On a sweltering summer Saturday night at The Meadowlands, tremendous performances were the norm as six divisions of the third leg of the Graduate Series for 4-year-olds were sprinkled throughout a high-powered 14-race program.

Of those performances, one stood out from the rest – at least from a speed perspective – as Bulldog Hanover won the second of two $50,000 splits for open pacers in 1:47, equaling the fastest mile of the year in the sport. Nicholas Beach was the first to do it on May 21.

After traveling down from his home base of Ontario, Bulldog Hanover landed in the Noel Daley barn and the son of Shadow Play-Bj’s Squall lowered his previous lifetime best by a full second with Dexter Dunn at the controls.

Bulldog Hanover nudged past Linedrive Hanover just after that one hit the quarter in :27 and had little trouble from there, reaching the half in in :55 and three-quarters in 1:22.1 before an incredible final quarter of :24.4 completed the mile. It was 2 lengths back to Linedrive Hanover second with Rockyroad Hanover third.

As the 2-5 favorite, Bulldog Hanover returned $2.80 to his backers in winning for 18^th time from just 26 lifetime outings. His bulging bank account swelled to $869,770.

“I was most surprised by his last quarter,” said Dunn. “It was very impressive. I asked him at the top of the stretch and he set me back in my seat. He’s got a big, powerful stride. It doesn’t even feel like he’s doing what he’s doing.”

But that was just one of the incredible performances on this star-studded night.

Bella Bellini, the 2021 Hambletonian Oaks champion, sat fifth and last to three-quarters before sprinting her final quarter in :25.4 to record a three-quarter-length win over Herculisa in a $40,000 division for trotting mares in a lifetime-best 1:51.

“Last week [when third in the Armbro Flight] she raced great coming from a long way back,” said Dunn. “With only five horses, we went to the back because I believe in her speed, and she showed it. She likes a target.”

The daughter of Bar Hopping-Bella Dolce, who is trained by Nifty Norman, returned $2.60 as the 1-5 public choice, and raised her career numbers to 13 wins from 32 starts, good for earnings of just over $1.2 million.

In a thrilling two-horse battle to the wire, Rattle My Cage got past the speedy Cuatro De Julio by a neck in 1:50.3 for driver Yannick Gingras and trainer Ake Svanstedt in the first of two $50,000 splits for open trotters.

Rattle My Cage upped his win streak to three while paying $4.40 to win as the second choice. The son of Love You-Caress The Senses is now seven-for-21 in his career, good for earnings of $163,279.

The biggest upset of the night came in a $40,000 division for mare pacers as defending Horse of the Year Test Of Faith, the 1-9 favorite, came up a head short of taking down speedster Mikala and driver George Brennan.

Mikala, a Nik Drennan student, took the lead at the half and lasted to the line in a lifetime-best 1:48.3 to remain perfect in four seasonal starts. The daughter of Always B Miki-Shes Some Treasure paid $12.80 as the second choice.

Talk about your tough beats. Test Of Faith’s final quarter of :24.3 tied the record for fastest-ever quarter time at The Big M (Mach N Cheese did it first) and it still wasn’t enough.

Ahundreddollarbill surged off cover to win the other $50,000 dash for open trotters in 1:51.1.

The gelded son of Chapter Seven-Swinging Royalty, who was driven by Todd McCarthy and trained by Tony Alagna, held off the late-charging Ambassador Hanover by a head while upping his resume to 12 wins from 23 lifetime starts, good for earnings of $744,715. He paid $3.40 as the 3-5 public choice.

In the other $50,000 event for open pacers, Charlie May out-gamed 39-1 longshot Whichwaytothebeach by a neck in a lifetime-best 1:47.1 for driver Dave Miller and trainer Steve Carter.

“I am blown away by that mile,” said owner Don Tiger. “But it was the right trip. He got to sit second and got to pacing in the lane. He loves to chase. Loves the competition. He is eligible to the Roll With Joe [next week at The Meadowlands], but after this 1:47.1 mile, we may keep him out to get his legs back. We will be in the [July 9] Graduate Final.”

A gelded son of McArdle-Stipple Hanover, Charlie May paid $7.40 as the second choice, and now has 19 wins from 36 career outings and earnings of $1,265,720.

A LITTLE MORE: Dunn led the drivers with three winners on the card. … Travis Alexander had a training double. … A carryover of $4,971 led to a total pool of $42,461 in the Late 20-cent Pick-6. Those with all six correct collected $1,423.04. … The action on the 11^th was huge, as a total of $365,098 was pushed through the windows, $101,197 of that on the Late 50-cent Pick-4, but all-source betting for the night ended up just shy of $3 million, as a total of $2,962,043 was put in play. … Jessica Otten’s $50 win and place bet on Charlie May proved to be enough for the Big M TV personality to record her second win in the track’s Battle of the Masterminds handicapping contest. She finished the night with a mythical bankroll of $645.60. … Racing resumes Thursday at 6:20 p.m. kicking off the first three-program week of the year.

Hennessey win five inkling featured trot at Tioga

 John Horne for Tioga Downs. 

 Wally Hennessey drove five winners on the card at Tioga Downs including a win in the $9000 co-featured trot with Golden Kronos on Saturday (June 25). 

Golden Kronos ($2.80) was first to the quarter in :27.4.  He slowed things down using a :29.4 second quarter and was first to the half in :57.3.  He coasted to three-quarters in 1:25.3. 

As they reached the stretch second place finisher Jammin Jack (Corey Braden) came all out after the leader but Golden Kronos was too strong and won easily in 1:54.3.  Manwilling (Mike Merton) finished third 

Golden Kronos is an 8-year-old gelding by Chapter Seven.  He is owned by Michael and William Pozefsky while trained by Chip Zombick.  It was his first win this season.  He now has 33 career victories. 

Hennessey got his other wins with Ruthless Dude ($5.40), Mr Houdini ($4.10), Southwind Moroccan ($2.10), and Harry Terror ($6.10). 

Saranac Blue Chip (Jim Taggert Jr.) Wins the $9,000 co-featured pace. 

Saranac Blue Chip ($5.40) jumped out of the gate and led to the first quarter in :27.1.  He was first to the half in :56.2 and first to three-quarters in 1:24.3.   

Second place finisher Hard Rock Hul(Aaron Byron) followed in the pocket but could never get close as Saranac Blue Chip cruised to a win in a seasonal best of 1:52.1.  Bettors Authority (Mike Merton) was third best. 

Saranac Blue Chip is a 4-year-old gelding by American Ideal.  He is owned by Leona Morrissey and trained by Dan Morrissey.  It was his sixth win in 2022.  He now has 11 career victories. 

Tioga Downs returns to Live racing on Sunday (June 26) with an 11-race card featuring two divisions of the New York Sire Stakes for 2-year-old pacing colts & geldings starting at 1:00 p.m. 

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com. 

Lyons Pegasus and Jenny Lake take features at Vernon

 John Horne for Vernon Downs 

Lyons Pegasus (Justin Huckabone) and Jenny Lake (Steeven Genois) grab the co-features at Vernon Downs on Saturday (June 25). 

Lyons Pegasus ($11.60) romps in the $7,700 Open Pace. 

Lyons Pegasus came flying out of the gate and put in an eye-popping :25.3 first quarter.  He used a :27.4 second quarter and was up by four lengths hitting the half first in :53.2.  He cruised to three-quarters in 1:21.2. 

 As they made the turn for home Lyons Pegasus looked like he was in another zip code.  Winning with ease in a lifetime best of 1:49.4.  Chatelroll (Frank Affrunti) came up to finish second.  Third money went to Wind Blast (Josh Kinney). 

Lyons Pegasus is a 6-year-old gelding by Well Said.  He is owned by Mathew Dugan and trained by Huckabone.  It was his first win this season and the 10^th of his career. 

After being interfered with in the stretch Jenny Lake ($4.30) wins the $7,700 Open Trot. 

Da Boogie Man (Justin Huckabone) took the lead before hitting the first quarter first in :27.1.  Jenny Lake then took over control and led to the half in :57.0.  She continued to lead hitting three-quarters in 1:26.4. 

Da Boogie Man popped the pocket as they reached the stretch.  The two battled all the way down the lane.  Da Boogie Man interfered with Jenny Lake in deep stretch causing her to go off-stride.  She was awarded the win while Da Boogie Man was placed to second.  Discus Hanover (Truman Gale) finished third. 

Jenny Lake is a 6-year-old mare by RC Royalty.  She is trained by Paul Minckler for owners Carol Namiotka and Ed Namiotka Jr.  It was her third straight win this season.  She now has 28 career victories. 

Justin Huckabone and Barton Dalious had driving triples.  Jeff Sorenson and Huckabone had training doubles. 

There is no live racing on Friday (July 1).  Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Saturday (July 2) with a post time of 6:05 p.m. Fireworks follow live racing.  more information, go to www.vernondowns.com. 

North American Amateur Driver’s Association Makes Donation and Upcoming Series

 Today, the North American Amateur Driver’s Association Ltd.(NAADA)  announced its most recent distribution of $5,000 in total to some of our harness industry’s most worthy institutions. They include the Harness Horse Youth Foundation, New Vocations and the Harness Racing Museum  and Hall of Fame. “The participating members in NAADA are indeed  proud of their support for industry organizations that represent the best our game has to offer”, said President Joe Faraldo. “These contributions come from dues and start fees NAADA collects weekly and supplements an earlier  $15,000 donation made to the Standardbred Transition Alliance”, said Vice President Alan Schwartz. NAADA, currently 0qis in the midst of its Summer Series alternating between Yonkers and Monticello raceways with a final at Yonkers on August 4th. NAADA’s final yearly series will culminate in the Fall when it will host yet another international contingent from another region in Italy.

 

In August, (8-4 - 8-10)  NAADA will host an International Competition between our members and a four man squad representing Italy with drivers from Tuscany, Pisa  and Sicily their expressed goal is to win races on US soil. Led by Daniele Orsini an accomplished  driver with 300+ wins, Francesco Paolo Caruso with  500 + wins,  Roberto Giannoni, and Gianluca Di Venti. The Italian invasion will be housed at the iconic 1926 Warwick Hotel in NYC founded by William Randolph Hearst. The Italians   are eager to attend the Hambletonian most of all, though.  NAADA members  will participate in showing our guests some US hospitality, including a guided tour of the Freedom Tower and other NYC sites, though their major concern is winning a race or two.

Dining Now on Sale for the Meadowlands Pace

Meadowlands Racetrack 

East Rutherford, NJ - Dining options are now available for Saturday, July 16^th – Meadowlands Pace Night.

25 Café picnic tables are available for this exciting night of racing. The Café will have waitress service and be tented for guest comfort. Guests can dine on racetrack staples including chicken wings and French fries, cheese steaks, burgers, pretzels, popcorn, ice cream and more. Reservations must be pre-paid and are $100 per table. Each table seats up to four people. The $100 is a food credit that can be used at the Café.

Café tables can be purchased here - https://meadowlandsracetrack.ticketleap.com/2022-pace-cafe-tables/

Those looking for buffet dining can call 201-The-BigM to make reservations for the Pink Restaurant. The buffet is $49.95 (plus tax and gratuity) and features a variety of salads including tortellini, Caesar and caprese.  Main course offerings include Brazilian Coulotte steak, cheese ravioli with shallots, chives and brandy cream, citrus salmon and pork tenderloin with mushrooms.

For an additional $10 diners can enjoy a 10oz prime rib.

Meadowlands Pace night features a stakes filled card worth over $2.5 million. Post time is 6:20pm and fans can enjoy an array of food trucks, t-shirt giveaway, carnival rides and games and the 30 and under handicapping contest.

For all Pace night details visit https://playmeadowlands.com/pace/

 

Meadowlands Racetrack Bids Goodbye to June with Wine

Meadowlands Racetrack

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – The Meadowlands Racetrack has something for every guest this weekend. Live racing kicks off with a 6:20pm post time Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Horseplay is a Friday and Saturday night staple that fans can enter for free. Fans are encouraged to pick up a numbered horse at the promotions table and throw the horse into the car for a chance to win $100 and an entry into the Friday, August 5^th drawing for a brand new 2022 Toyota Corolla. For every horse that makes it into the Horseplay car during the season, Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment donates $5 to the designated monthly charity and $5 to Purple Haze Standardbred Adoption Program. The June donation recipient is the Bluemont Equine Rescue and Sanctuary in Colts Neck, NJ.

This Saturday June 25^th, is the annual Meadowlands Wine Fest in the track’s Backyard.  Doors open to the public at 4:30 pm for VIP admission.  The VIP ticket is $65 and includes an additional 1 hour of sampling, exclusive VIP Tent wine samplings, and food.  General Admission begins at 5:30 pm and is available in advance for $45 or at the door for $50.  Live harness racing kicks off at 6:20 pm.

Over thirty wineries will be featured including Whispering Angel, Concha y Toro, Brik by Lovo, Federalist, 7Cellars, Belair, Santa Margherita, Cavit, Confetti, Fetzer, Loveblock and many more.

Guests can also sample Flybird’s vast array of wine cocktails with unique flavorings, everything from blood orange to passion fruit to spicy tamarind mangonada.

Tickets are available at https://meadowlandsracetrack.ticketleap.com/2022-meadowlands-racetrack-wine-fest/

Those looking for a relaxing night while watching the races can hang out on Victory Terrace. The sprawling outdoor rooftop lounge, offers spectacular views of the live harness racing action and the New York City skyline.  Every Friday and Saturday during live racing guests can enjoy full bar and a DJ playing Top 40 hits. 

For a complete list of nightly events, promotions and updated racing calendar please visit PlayMeadowlands.com. 

Buffet dining reservations can be made by calling 201-The-BigM (201-843-2446). The buffet always features a variety of salads, main dishes, carving station and desserts. Thursday is $29.95 with Fridays and Saturdays $49.95. Guests can enjoy a 10oz prime rib for an additional $10 on both Fridays and Saturdays.

SBOA members in good standing can make a dining reservation and send an email to Jessica Otten (jotten@playmeadowlands.com) with the following info:

Subject Line: SBOA Dinner Promotion
Name of Reservation
Date of Reservation

One member will be selected to win dinner for four in Trotters and live race program on each Friday and Saturday. 

Reminder, guests must be 18+ to wager; 21+ to gamble on sports.  Gambling problem? Call 1-800-Gambler.

 

Freshman Filly Pacers Ready For NYSS At Buffalo

 by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway

HAMBURG, N.Y. --- There isn't much experience in the two fields of the New York Sire Stakes at Buffalo Raceway on Wednesday afternoon (June 22) as the 2-year-old filly pacers begin what hopefully will be long and prosperous racing careers.

The only things the young ladies' have on their resumes is a couple two qualifying races, hopefully solid bloodlines and a lot of hope and anticipation. Of the 15 gals entered in the two races worth approximately $54,000 each, only three have had a pari-mutuel start and all of the participants are still maidens.  

One competition on the track will be the battle of the sires as Huntsville leads the way with six  ready to face the starting gate while American Ideal has five.

The first division, set for the second race, has seven entrants. Vivians Dream (American Ideal-Sports Chic) gets the rail for driver Jim Morrill Jr. and is a perfect 2-for-2 in qualifiers including a 5-1/2 decision in 1:58 at Harrington..

Kissin Joe (Roll With Joe-Beachin N Kissin) had a solid third place in her only pari-mutuel start, losing by just three quarter lengths in 1:54 at Harrah's Philadelphia on June 15. She gets post six for driver Marcus Miller.

The rest of the field includes Hes Express (Huntsville-Tiaya Hanover), Alabama Hannah (Huntsville-Upfrontandpersonal), On The Hunt (Huntsville-Twin B Elite), Southwind Pinaclda (American Ideal-Cut And Paste) and Beantown Babe (Boston Red Rocks-Logan's Girl).

Highlighting the second bracket is Seafood Beauty (American Ideal-Seafood Annie) who  was impressive in her lone qualifier, taking a 4-1/4 length score in 1:58.3 at Plainridge Park on June 14. She'll score from post two with Jordan Stratton driving.

Golden Sunrise (Roll With Joe) has a Western New York connection as Peter Scamurra owns this filly. She is fresh off a 5-3/4 length victory in 2:00.3 at Vernon Downs back on June 11. Tyler Buter gets the nod in the sulky aboard Golden Sunrise who drew post three.

Other involved in the division will be Doing Marvelous (Bolt The Duer-Marvalous Joy), Bama Breeze (Huntsville-Valentin De Vie), Ideal Cover (American Ideal-Always Covers), Turn On The Charm (Huntsville-Charming Hill), Sand In The Hand (American Ideal-Sun N Sand) and No Cigar Tony (Huntsville-Brownsville Bomber).

The track record the ladies will be firing at is 1:55.3 that was established on 7/7/2021 as A Girl That Twirls and April Angel finished in a dead heat in the NYSS for the 2-year-old filly pacers.

The 10-race card, scheduled for 1:30 p.m., will also feature a $15,000 Excelsior A race slated for fifth race. At 1:10 p.m., a non-betting $6,300 Excelsior B event will be run.

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

EDDIE MILLER WINS GLADA TROT TONIGHT AT NORTHFIELD WITH COWBOY COUNTRY

   by John Manzi for GLADA

Northfield, Ohio--Sent off as second choice in the $8000 Great Lakes Amateur Drivers Association trot tonight at Northfield Park Eddie Miller sent Cowboy Country for the lead and they gained command after a :28.1 first quarter. Once on top they had to contend with Hititoutofthepark (Allen Sisco) who moved first-up and the two raced side by side past the half in :58 seconds. They were still side by side when they headed for the three quarters but at that point Sisco's trotter was tiring and that made room for the 3-5 race favorite, Next Woman Up  (Lauren Harmon). However they had to reel-in Cowboy Country and they tried but to no avail. 

When they headed for home Miller's charge was still strong and although Harmon's trotter took its best shot the leader didn't yield. At the wire Cowboy Country hung tough and zipped home a  length winner in 1:57.2. Next Woman Up was second and 5 lengths behind the winner in third place was Fulton's Fury (Darrell Rideout).

Cowboy Country is owned byRebecca Sugg and Steven Maas and is trained by his driver.

He paid $5.00 for win.

JONATHAN AHLE WINS ALL 3 AHDC TROTS TODAY AT HARRAH'S PHILADELPHIA

  by John Manzi for the American Harness Drivers Club

Philadelphia, Pa.-- The adage of "when you're hot you're hot" can certainly be said of Jonathan Ahle after he won all three $9000  divisions of the American Harness Drivers Club's trots today at  Harrah's Philadelphia.

Race winners, Lionhead and  Drazzmatazz,  were sent off as the betting favorites in the first two trots while TSM Photo Bugger,--a 15 year old altered son of S J's Photo-- was second choice in the third contest.

In the first AHDC event Ahle sent the even money favorite, Lionhead, to the lead from the five-hole and they proceeded to make every pole  a winning one en route to an oh-so-easy five length victory  in 1:58.1. Caviar Star finished second for  Paul Minore and Tony Verruso took home the show dough with Call Me Thefireman.

Lionhead, 6-year old Uncle Peter gelding, is owned and trained by Terry Morgan. He paid $4.00 for the win.

Drazzmatazz, also from the Terry Morgan barn,  grabbed the lead at the quarter pole in 28 seconds and Ahle kept the pedal to the metal and they zipped by the half in :56.4 with Volare and driver Tony Beltrami in hot pursuit.  They then raced one-two by the three quarters in 1:26.4 and were side by side when they headed for  home but as they approached the finish line Drazzmatazz began to draw off and he went on to a one-length  victory in 1:57.3. Volare finished second and Winneress (Tony Verruso) finished third.

Owned by Danbry Racing, Drazzmatazz paid $3.80 for the win.

And Ahle wasn't done for in the third AHDC event he sent the 15-year-old TSM Photo Bugger to the lead in :28.1 and the wily veteran trotted through fractions of :58 and 1:26.4 while being chased by Tony Verruso with the 1-2 favorite, Big Nudge. But the aged veteran shook off his competitor and went on to a 6-length triumph in 1:55.4. Big Nudge was second best and Worldsstonecold As (Tony Beltrami) garnered the show dough.

 Karen Fread owns and trains the winner who returned a $6.00 win mutuel.

Making a Difference is Six Days Away-SRF

 

 

 

Cream Ridge, NJ - 6/19/2022 - The Standardbred Retirement Foundation, (SRF) AdoptaHorse.org is taking other bold steps to make a difference in the lives of Standardbreds. On Saturday, June 25th, 2022 the first "Horse Sense" Seminar will be held in Lancaster, Pa. to bring to the rural communities using horses as working animals, a great deal of very useful information, materials, guidance, samples, and more on horse care.    The times have changed, but the use of horses in the rural areas has not. Dirt roads are scarce, they are paved with hard asphalt; motor vehicle traffic has greatly increased; access to water while traveling has reduced; there are diseases and viruses in need of further awareness; weather is more severe in the heat of summer and winter months where traveling by horse presents hazards. Today there are new preventative measures to reduce diseases; wound and illness treatment have new break throughs; prevention is seeing new methods; and horse care products in the past decade are keeping horses healthier and are offering more successful treatment options.  About 30% of the horses coming to SRF have eye issues, ulcers, blindness, and have traumatic eye injuries. Better harness fitting; hoof care and shoeing choices; other treatment for injuries from street accidents; and nutrition will be part of the day's information provided. SRF will be bringing all of this and more to the communities using horses as working animals, and hopes to develop a relationship so the future brings what is needed for all.     The event is being held at the Solanco Fair Ground in their Show Barn Park Ave Quarryville PA starting at 8:30 am. Much of this is hands on. All are welcome.   Topics include:     Daily and preventative care to keep horses well - vaccines, deworming, proper feeding hydration and access to water, botulism, eye care, founder, basic exercise plan, additional red flags to look out for. (Dr. Nicole Scherrer New Bolton Center)  Horse body basics – physical exam, Henneke Score, use a weight tape, identifying signs of lameness, red flags in body. (Jamie Guiberson, Nursing Dept. New Bolton Center)  Dental care – regular dental care, tooth problems affect their behavior – interfering with holding a bit and consuming enough food to stay healthy. How to age a horse by its teeth.      (Emmanuel Smucker, Sunny Ridge Equine)  No Foot/No Horse- things to keep your horse’s hooves and soles in good condition, and why it matters where and what they stand in. How often to trim and change shoes to avoid lameness (Amos Smucker Jr., JR’s Farrier)  Importance of tack fitting - prevent lameness, avoid overall injury with proper fitting tack (Dr. Patty Blakelee – Unionville Equine Associates, Levi Stoltzfus – Bartville Harness, John Glick)   Horse emergencies – colic, heat/cold emergencies, puncture wounds/managing bleeding, tetanus/botulism, (foaling emergencies?) (emergency supplies to keep on hand?) (Dr. Alycia Crandall, New Bolton Center)   This is the first effort of its kind by the 33 year old organization. SRF is grateful to the many veterinarians and others who are giving of their time to bring this powerful educational seminar to these areas. There are many expenses related to this first of many events to come, yet there is no funding available for it. SRF is feeding and caring for more than 500 horses everyday, and so many others are in need of help, but it is very important to address these other needs for the same reason, the welfare of these animals. To do so, SRF very much appreciates tax-deductible gifts for this important effort.               Make a Tax-deductible Gift   Website

 

 

 

 

 

 

About Standardbred Retirement Foundation     Standardbred Retirement Foundation provides human care and services for horse in need of lifetime homes, and in crisis, through rehabilitation, training, adoption, life-long follow--up or life time sanctuary and offering therapeutic equine opportunities for children and adults.

BIG M BACK ON FS2 LIVE ON SATURDAY

Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – The Meadowlands makes it return to live television this Saturday (June 18) night, when Fox Sports 2 shows its third installment of “America’s Day at the Races” in which the TV departments at the New York Racing Association and The Big M will pool their resources to bring racing fans the action from Churchill Downs and The Meadowlands.

The telecast takes place from 9-11:30 p.m.

“All of us at The Meadowlands are excited to have our product shown to what is normally a Thoroughbred audience,” said Big M Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Jason Settlemoir. “And, hopefully, after seeing our product, some fans will be interested in giving our game a chance. We appreciate the opportunity to have our races on FS2 and are grateful to be working with such a top-flight TV outfit, like the one at the NYRA.”

The Meadowlands races shown will be the eighth (at 9:16 p.m.), ninth (9:44 p.m.), 10^th (10:06 p.m.), 11^th (10:33 p.m.), 12^th (11:00 p.m.) and 13^th (11:18 p.m.).

Saturday’s live presentation merely marks the halfway point for The Meadowlands’ TV exposure. The following two shows will be on July 9 (from 8-11 p.m.), which will feature eliminations for The Meadowlands Pace, and July 16 (8-11 p.m.), when the $700,000 (est.) Pace Final will be in the spotlight.

The sixth and final show will be on Aug. 6 (from 6-7 p.m.) when The Meadowlands’ Championship Meeting concludes with the 97th edition of the $1 million Hambletonian. That show will be telecast as part of NYRA’s “Saratoga Live”.

IT’S JUST SO GRAND: With July 4 just a little over two weeks away, Grand Circuit harness racing is now starting to ramp up.

This Saturday, simulcast patrons will be watching the Woodbine Mohawk Park races with great interest, as the $1-million North America Cup is the marquee event on a gigantic night of racing when the first of 13 races kick off at 6:30 p.m. The North America Cup has a post time of 10:48 p.m.

Also on the card is the $100,000 Mohawk Gold Cup, $251,000 Goodtimes, $401,000 Fan Hanover, $211,000 Armbro Flight and $315,000 Roses Are Red.

In addition, WMP will offer a wager with a potential monster final pool, as the High-5 will have a mandatory payout after starting out with a carryover of $548,692. The estimated final pool is $2 million, and patrons can watch and wager on the race shortly after the last Meadowlands race of the night.

The Meadowlands will take a lap around the Grand Circuit on Friday (June 17) when 2-year-old pacing fillies go at it in the Tompkins-Geers for a purse of $47,975. Stop The Show is the likely favorite from the Ron Burke barn.

Also on Friday, The Big M’s sister track, Vernon Downs, will host a pair of $187,500 divisions of the Empire Breeders Classic for 3-year-olds on the trot, one for colts and geldings and the other for fillies.

The EBC dashes will go as races five and seven, respectively, on a nine-race card that begins at 12:15 p.m.

Seasoned racing fans know that if it’s North America Cup time, it’s getting close to some of the biggest race cards in the sport, when The Big M steps into the spotlight.

The first of two huge programs take place on July 16 when the $700,000 (est.) Meadowlands Pace tops the “Biggest Night in Harness Racing.”

Then, two weeks later, the lone day card of the 90-program calendar year kicks off at noon when the $1 million Hambletonian serves as the feature on August 6.

PICK-6 CARRYOVER: There were no winning tickets sold in the 20-cent Pick-6 last Saturday, setting up a carryover of $5,731.20 for Friday’s card. For free past performances of every race of every Big M program, go to playmeadowlands.com. The Pick-6 is offered on races eight through 13 nightly.

LAST SATURDAY: Racing fans packed the house at The Big M last Saturday (June 11) for some great racing, simulcasting and promotions.

Thoroughbred fans were treated to the 154^th edition of The Belmont Stakes, which was taken by Mo Donegal after a thrilling stretch run. Then, alongside a competitive live program at night was one of the track’s most popular promotions, the Wiener Dog Derby.

THIS WEEKEND: On Friday, The Meadowlands will host the third edition of the “Sportscasters Charity Derby”.

There will be two charity races with four sportscasters participating in each race in a one-mile race driving in a jog cart. All eight of the sportscasters will have a $1,000 donation made to their selected charity wherever they finish, and, in addition, Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment will donate $5,000 to each of the two winning sportscasters selected charities.

“We are very excited to be hosting the Sportscasters’ Charity Derby,” said Big M Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Gural. “We are equally excited that so many of the top sportscasters who live in the New York-New Jersey Metro area will be participating in this fun and exciting event.”

For a list of the sportscasters who will be participating and complete information, go to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/meadowlands-sportscaster-derby/

On Saturday, a total of $3,000 in prize money is up for grabs in The Big M’s popular “Burger Battle”. The event is from 5-11 p.m. in The Backyard.

To participate or to just taste some great burgers, get complete information by going to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/food-festival/

GET UP EARLY: Week two of “Breakfast with the Babies” takes place Saturday morning. Post time for the first of 20 races is 9 a.m.

Mike Bozich, the voice of Harrah’s Philadelphia, will serve as the announcer for the races on the morning card, then, that evening, will sit alongside Dave Brower on the Sam McKee Memorial Broadcast Set and serve as the co-host on the track’s live simulcast presentation.

For those who would like to watch the baby races live, they are available on rtn.tv (Racetrack Television Network) or on The Big M’s web page at playmeadowlands.com.

WINE IS FINE: On Saturday, June 25, come out to The Meadowlands for the “Summer Wine Festival”.

The event is rain or shine. General admission tickets get you four hours of tasting (from 5:30-9:30 p.m.). Those with VIP tickets get to go in one hour earlier.

For complete information and ticket pricing, go to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/2022-meadowlands-racetrack-wine-fest/

THE BIG M APPRECIATES YOU: On Saturday, July 2, on-track patrons will be treated to special pricing on concessions on “Fan Appreciation Night”.

After enjoying the lower-priced food and beer, fans are then invited to stay after the races to enjoy a fabulous fireworks display.

WHHC QUALIFIER: There will be $2,500 in prize money as well as a seat in the World Harness Handicapping Championship Final at The Meadowlands on Sept. 10 at stake in a WHHC Qualifier that takes place at The Big M on Thursday, July 7, when there will be a live racing program.

The entry fee is only $100, and for all the information you need to get involved, go to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/2022-july-100-whhc-qualifier/

A HALF-DOZEN CHANCES: The Meadowlands offers its faithful six opportunities nightly to make a score by betting into pools with a low 15 percent takeout as well as low minimum base bets. Here is a list of those wagers, and when they are offered:

·         Race 1: 20-cent Pick-5

·         Race 3: 20-cent Survivor Pick-7

·         Race 6: 50-cent Early Pick-4 ($50,000 guaranteed pool)

·         Race 8: 20-cent Pick-6

·         Race 10: 50-cent Late Pick-4 ($50,000 guaranteed pool)

·         Race 13: 10-cent Pentafecta/Hi-5

GET ON TWITTER: Everything Meadowlands is available by going on Twitter. You can check in with the Big M team for early changes, racing information and staff selections by going to @themeadowlands or #playbigm.

On race nights, stay in touch with Jessica Otten (@JessicaOtten1), Brower (@eedoogie), Dave Little (@DaveLittleBigM), Ken Warkentin (@kenvoiceover) and Edison Hatter (@Edison_1999_).

BROWER, OTTEN ARE MASTERFUL: Brower and Otten were the winners last Friday and Saturday, respectively, of The Big M’s “Battle of the Masterminds” handicapping contest, where some lucky fan can walk away with $10,000.

On-track patrons can enter every racing night, selecting the handicapper they think will win that night’s edition of the tournament. If that handicapper wins and that patron’s name is drawn from the entry box, they win a $200 betting voucher plus a $50 gas gift card.

That patron is then also entered into the grand prize drawing, which takes place on Hambletonian Day, August 6.

HORSE PLAY: Patrons attending the races at The Meadowlands can participate in “Horseplay” for a chance to win a 2022 Toyota Corolla.

The contest takes place every live racing night through Friday, August 5. Participants will attempt to throw a numbered horse into the window of a moving car. Of those that land inside the vehicle, one winner will be chosen at random and will receive a $100 betting voucher.

Each night’s winner will be entered into the grand prize drawing, which will take place on August 5. Guests can pick up a free horse to toss at the Players Club Desk or the Horseplay table in front of the winner’s circle.

There is a bonus for the kids who are at the track. The youngsters who help pick up the horses left on the track will receive a free ice cream.

For every horse that makes it into the Horseplay car, Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment will donate $5 to a designated monthly charity. May’s charity was Act Now Foundation, June’s is Bluemont Sanctuary and the July/August recipient is Allaire Community Farm. An additional $5 for every horse that makes it into the car will also be donated to the Purple Haze Standardbred Adoption Program.

LIVE RACING SCHEDULE: Racing at The Big M is conducted on a Friday-Saturday basis and has a first-race post time of 6:20 p.m. In addition, there is live racing on Thursday, June 30, and Thursday, July 7.

The track’s live “Racing from The Meadowlands” pregame show kicks off nightly at 5:47 p.m.

WARRIORS, COME OUT AND PLAY: Game 6 of the NBA Finals takes place Thursday (June 16) night, and the best place to watch and wager on the hoops action is inside The Meadowlands at the No. 1 facility of its type, the FanDuel Sportsbook.

Tipoff is at 9 p.m. and the Boston Celtics are a 3½-point home-court favorite who are -166 on the money line. The under/over is 210.

The Golden State Warriors have a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series and can take home the championship with a victory.

In Major League Baseball on Thursday, the New York Mets host the Milwaukee Brewers in a 7:10 p.m. start. The Mets are -130 to win the game. The under/over is 8.

The New York Yankees take their six-game winning streak and major league-best 46-16 record into a 7:05 p.m. game with the visiting Tampa Bay Rays. The Bronx Bombers are -250 to up their streak to seven while the game has an under/over of 7½.

For up-to-date lines on any sporting event go to https://www.fanduel.com/sportsbook-meadowlands

The sportsbook is open for business Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-1 a.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-2 a.m.; Saturday 7 a.m.-2 a.m. and Sunday 8 a.m.-12 a.m.