by Dustin Ross, Regional Racing Operations Manager, Tioga Downs

Nichols, NY — Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs will host under saddle exhibition races in September as part of the Cane Pace Final card on Monday (Sept. 3) at Tioga and part of the End of Summer Showdown at Vernon on Sept. 7.

Under saddle racing has been on the rise in popularity this year with an exhibition being staged at the Meadowlands on Hambletonian Day. The exhibition races will take place during the race card and will be non-wagering events.

“It is very refreshing to see all the interest in this “new” aspect of harness racing,” said Helene Gregory, who has been leading the charge to help revive under saddle racing in North American harness racing.

“I am currently working with a group of riders and other Monte fans on a totally new RUS/Monte organization and also working with racetracks and racing jurisdictions to get this new racing style approved and ultimately become a betting product. We have the support of many leading harness profiles, Standardbred breeders, track owners, horse owners, drivers, lawyers, trainers, you name it. Everyone wants to see more of Racing Under Saddle,” added Gregory.

The races are being sponsored by Tioga Downs and the Southern Tier Harness Horsemen’s Association at Tioga, and Vernon Downs and the HHA of CNY at Vernon Downs.

Post time on Sept. 3 at Tioga Downs is slated for 1:30 p.m., while the End of Summer Showdown on Sept. 7 at Vernon will have a 6:55 p.m. post time.

For more information on Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs, visit www.tiogadowns.com and www.vernondowns.com.