by Frank Drucker, publicity director, Yonkers Raceway

Yonkers, NY — Among the Saturday night (Oct. 2) highlights of Yonkers Raceway’s second annual Fall Harvest Festival is another edition of the “Legislators Pace.” Eleven New York State elected officials will do battle on the track prior to the wagering events.

In last year’s inaugural, Assemblyman Gary Pretlow, driving in tandem with Jason Bartlett, reined Mr Soggy to victory in the first event, while Assemblyman Rory Lancman, accompanied by Cat Manzi, drove Tristin Seelster to a win in the second division.

This time around, the field has been expanded to three heats, scheduled for 6, 6:15 and 6:30 p.m.

First division: Assemblyman Michael Dendekker (D-Queens); Senator Kevin Parker (D-Brooklyn); Assemblyman Gary Pretlow (D-Westchester); Assemblyman Andrew Raia (R-Suffolk).

Second division: Assemblyman Michael Benedetto (D-Bronx); Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D-Staten Island); Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson (D-Bronx/Westchester); Assemblyman Darryl Towns (D-Brooklyn).

Third division: Assemblyman Philip Boyle (R-Suffolk); Assemblyman Nelson Castro (D-Bronx); Assemblyman Joseph Saladino (R-Nassau).

Eight $50,000 events for New York-breds lead the racing program, with first post at 7:10 p.m.

The Fall Harvest Festival celebrates the relationship between harness racing and agriculture throughout New York State. Events, demonstrations, music and, of course, more than enough food for guests of all ages are featured on the track apron from 5:30-10:00 p.m.