by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — They came out early on Sunday (Dec. 16) and then they just kept coming and by the time the Children’s holiday party was over nearly 1,000 people stopped by to enjoy the festivities of the day at Monticello Raceway.

A special Sunday race card was added for the fourth annual Free Fabulous Holiday Party for the children, which was sponsored by the Monticello Harness Horsemen’s Association and Monticello Raceway and Casino.

Geri Schwarz photo

Santa Claus made his way to the winner’s circle on a sulky pulled by a white horse.

It all began with the Candy Cane Pace in race number two where a 100 or so children joined driver Bruce Aldrich, Jr. after he won the event with Diablo. As the kids passed through the gate into the winner’s circle, raceway horsemen handed each a candy cane filled with M&M chocolates as they awaited the arrival of Santa.

And they weren’t disappointed.

When the grandstand loud speakers blurted Gene Autry’s version of ‘Here Comes Santa Claus,’ the jolly ole gent made his way to the winner’s circle on a sulky pulled by a white horse. Once there Santa greeted the children and they all went upstairs to the third floor of the grandstand to partake in the activities of the special day.

Elvis’ lost brother, Eric Bressi, who has volunteered his time each year the holiday party was presented, did a tremendous job entertaining the multitude with songs made famous by the King of Rock N Roll and he handled the master of ceremonies chores, the giveaways and the presentations masterfully.

“According to Mrs. Dale Berensen, executive secretary of the horsemen’s association, this year’s crowd was the biggest yet,” noted Alan Schwartz, president of the Monticello Harness Horsemen’s Association. “This the fourth year that we’ve had this day for the local children and each year the crowd size doubles. Kids, parents, grandparents and even great grandparents joined in the festivities.

“We gave away 13 bicycles and over 200 fabulous games, much to the delight of the children. It was a wonderful fabulous day.

“As we’ve done over the past few seasons the Sunday card was mainly for one specific purpose. We don’t usually race on Sunday afternoons, but we add this special racing program so our horsemen can hold the holiday party for the children.”

The party was for all children, from toddler to 12 years of age, and was held on the third floor of the track’s grandstand. It was decorated to the nines, and to the delight of the children, the room was transformed into a wonderland North Pole.

Every child got a chance to visit with Santa and they had their photo taken with old St. Nick. And each received numerous presents. There were various games to play and everyone had a wonderful time.

There was also a petting zoo and face painting by a professional and, of course, 10 exciting harness races.