by John Zimich, publicity director, Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

Wilkes-Barre, PA — The purse for the 2008 Adios stake final has been increased $60,000 to $500,000, it was jointly announced by Dale Rapson, vice president of racing at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, and Earl Beal, president of the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association (PHHA).

Because of ongoing construction at The Meadows (home of the Adios), the 2008 Adios will be raced at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs on Saturday afternoon, August 9. Eliminations, if necessary, would be conducted Friday, August 1.

“Hosting the Adios is an honor made even (more) special by the $60,000 purse increase,” stated Beal. “The Adios traditionally attracts the sport’s top 3-year-old pacing colts and geldings. We expect it to be a memorable event.”

Rapson echoed similar sentiments concerning the Adios and said Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs will be rolling out the “red carpet” for everyone involved on Adios Day at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs.

Several of the horses entered in the Adios will be looking to accumulate added purse money since 24 top 3-year-old colt and gelding pacers throughout North America will be headed to Harrah’s Chester Downs the following week to participate in the Battle of the Brandywine.

The top eight money earners (accumulated purses earned) will be going for another $500,000 purse with the next eight racing for $200,000 and bottom eight for $100,000.