Freehold, NJ — On Saturday (Feb. 10) 26 4-H members and advisors visited Freehold Raceway for a fun and educational day.

The fifth race winner’s circle photo included the 4-H club visitors. Vicki Wright photo.

Suzanne Dambrose and Katie Eick gave the 4-H members a behind the scenes tour before the races started. Eick gave a tour of the paddock area and explained warm up and race procedures to the group. Many of the 4-H members recognized a few trainers and drivers from attending the Harness Horse Youth Foundation summer camps in the past.

The group followed the first race out for the post parade and were amazed by the bridge over Rt. 9 that the horses cross to get to the track. After watching the drivers meet up with the horses and take them to the track the group watched the race on the TV in the paddock.

After the first race the 4-H members met with Race Secretary Karen Fagliarone and General Manager Howard Bruno before enjoying lunch. Chef Theo prepared a lunch for the group that included hot dogs, snacks, soda and cake.

After lunch the group headed to the grandstand where Dambrose continued the tour while answering questions. After watching a few races, the group headed to the winner’s circle to have a photo taken with race five winner Landia and driver Anthony Verruso. One of the youngsters was given a souvenir, as Verruso gave his whip away.

Everyone enjoyed the behind-the-scenes tour and watching the races; it was a very educational and successful day for the group.