Vernon, NY — Vernon Downs is set to begin their 69th year of harness racing on Saturday (April 16), with an 11-race card slated to start at 6:05 p.m.

The opening night card will feature a t-shirt and schedule magnet giveaway, while supplies last.

Highlights for the season include “Derby Day” featuring the live showing of the Kentucky Derby on May 7 with a special post time of 5:05 p.m. On July 2, live racing will be followed by fireworks.

Vernon Downs will feature the Empire Breeders Classic for 3-year-old trotters, with separate races for fillies and colts, on June 17 with a special post time of 12:15 p.m. The track will also again host the Zweig Memorial races, featuring open and filly divisions for sophomore trotters, on July 9 with a post time of 12:15 p.m.

Promotions are back in full swing as well, including the always popular Horseplay Car Giveaway, which runs from May 6 through Oct. 1. Rules are on the Vernon Downs website. Every Friday, during live racing, fans on-track will be treated to $1 popcorn and fountain sodas, $2 hot dogs and $3 draft beers.

The Miracle Mile will also once again offer five awards throughout the 2022 season: the Winning Wheels Driver of the Week, the Black Stallion Trainer of the Week and the Bourbon Express groom of the Week, along with the Golden Gro Long Shot of the Month and the Rambling Willie Award, the latter for exceptional performances among small stables.

For more information on the 2022 racing season, go to www.vernondowns.com.