Yonkers, NY — The Standardbred Owners Association of New York will conduct multiple bonus races this year. Last year, the SOA of NY could only provide this benefit once because of the overpayment we had during the year.

The 2023 bonuses will be paid out to all horses wholly owned, trained and driven by SOA of NY members similar to the amount paid in last April 30’s 20 percent bonus races.

To be eligible, all participants of a horse in a designated bonus race card must be a SOA of NY member by Friday (Feb. 17). No exceptions!

The bonus money will be paid separately and solely to the owners (whoever is listed first in the program) and will come directly from the SOA of NY’s funds. Current SOA of NY members needn’t do anything except to make sure that all, repeat all owners, trainers and drivers of the horse that you have an ownership interest in are members by Feb. 17.

What does the SOA of NY do? We negotiate contracts, meet monthly with MGM Yonkers, administer a retirement and welfare program and proactively represent all your interests in Albany, which today is of the utmost importance. We continue to work with MGM Yonkers regarding the facility and track condition and will continue to  work hard to protect the interests of all participants in racing at Yonkers. What unites us all is the desire to continue and preserve the harness racing industry in New York State.

The three-year membership for $75 is a great deal, the one-year membership is $35. The sulky maximum benefit remains at $4,500 and since the drivers own their own race bikes, it remains an important protection for those talented individuals who race at Yonkers.

Please see Jimmy Marohn Sr. in the race paddock or apply online at www.soaofny.com/membership. You can also see if you are a member or not at www.soaofny.com/membership-list.

Thank you and good luck racing at Yonkers Raceway!