by Paul Ramlow, USTA Internet News Editor

Columbus, OH — The New York State Racing and Wagering Board has granted Vernon Downs permission to race in the month of May.

According to a story on the Syracuse Post-Standard’s Web site, the track had requested permission to race through November, but board members were concerned about a shortage of horses that had prevented the track from racing on Thursdays during the month of April.

In a press release issued earlier this week, Vernon officials said they hope to resume Thursday racing on May 3.

The NYSRWB is scheduled to vote in late May on the rest of Vernon Downs’ season.

The Post-Standard story went on to say that the track must also submit paperwork to the board concerning the recent announcement that Nevada Gold will sell its 22.8 percent ownership stake in Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs to its partners, Southern Tier Acquisition II and Oneida Entertainment.