The Passover Pace race date varies annually depending on
when the Passover Holiday begins. This year the Holiday starts at sundown on
March 25 and continues for eight days, many of which are holy days.
“So in order not to ask any of the participants to drive on
a holy day we have scheduled this year’s race on March 28; a date we were told
that would not put any of the drivers in jeopardy (if
they decided to compete) and a date which
the religious order can come to cheer their favorites,” noted Shawn
Wiles, the track’s general manager.
Last year, for only the second time since its inaugural in
1999, the ‘Race for the Matzos’
happened to be a trot when not enough pacers were entered for the event. And
for the second time in the past three years, Alan Charles won the contest when
he guided Digital Photo to a 2:05.2 victory over Four Starz Ransom and driver
Alan Schwartz.
“This race may be a little unusual but believe it or
not those who compete annually in our Passover Pace have been calling to make sure
that we are doing it again this year,” Wiles added..
Charles is set and ready to defend his title and ready too,
is three-time Passover Pace winner, Alan Schwartz. Unfortunately, Schwartz’s
nemesis (and good friend), Mike Kimelman, also a three-time Passover Pace
champion, will not be able to compete this
year because he and his family will be vacationing during the time the event is
to be raced.
The Passover Pace is open to any licensed harness driver of
Jewish heritage who holds a full (A) or a provisional (P) license from the
United States (or Canadian) Trotting Association.
For further information please contact Warner in the racing
office at 845-794-4100 x 557; or call the tracks publicity department at
extension 455.
