Like the previous contests, the Battle of the Brain Trusts
III is a unique non-wagering one mile race open only to CEO’s, track
presidents, track VP’s , general managers, assistant general managers and any
others whose decision makings help guide the fortunes of their racing oriented
establishments.
For the record the race is contested in jog carts without
the use of whips.
Although the exact date of ‘the Battle’ is yet to be
solidified it will be a date that will be congruent for all the participants.
“We already have three executives longing to get back
in action,” noted Eric Warner, Monticello Raceway’s Director of Racing. “Our
general manager, Shawn Wiles is ready and so are Jason Settlemoir, of the
Meadowlands and Tioga Downs, and John Hensley from Dover Downs. Now all we need
is one or two more for a race.
“I hear there’s word that Bob Galtiero and Peter
Szymanski are interested in competing but both gentlemen currently seem a
bit reluctant to join in at this time.. Perhaps they’ll soften-up as the
weather gets better.”
Of course the race is not only to open to the aforementioned
executives its open to any and all executives who would like a chance to drive
in a horse race.
A few years ago Mike Tanner, then with Harrah’s Chester, was
considering participating. Now that he’s with the USTA he’s still eligible and
would make a great addition to the race. And recently the idea was run by Steve
Jones of Cameo Acres who is the VP of the Board of Directors at Historic Track.
Obviously, any executive who is interested in driving must
practice with a professional trainer before he—or she-- gets a seat behind a
pacer in the event. However, with the race date which will be set for later this
year there’s plenty time for the participants to gain confidence and
experience.
“Perhaps a great time to stage this race could be around or
within the dates of the USTA Driving School which will again be held in Goshen,
NY at Historic Track and the Mark Ford Training Center in Middletown,
NY from May 29 - June 2,” Warner suggested.
“Those dates could be custom made for any executive who
would like to practice before they drive in a race.”
Currently Warner is seeking drivers for the Battle of the
Brain Trusts III.
“I would like any interested participant to contact our
publicity director John Manzi for further information” Warner added. “He can be
reached in his office by calling 845-794-4100 x455.”
