from the USTA Communications Department

Editor’s Note: The following letter from Jeff Gural to the Meadowlands horsemen was posted on the website of the Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey.

Dear Meadowlands Drivers & Trainers,

I just want you all to know how much I appreciate the support you have given as the meet winds down. After a slow start I think we have managed to put on a decent product considering the disadvantage we are under without slots.

This would have not been possible without having the top drivers and trainers in the world competing against each other. The Meadowlands Pace Card was outstanding and we have seen some improvement in the handle now that we are back on Sports Channel and TVG is picking up race analysis from Darin Zoccali.

We have several events coming up relating to the Hamletonian and the World Driving Championship which I have listed below.

We are going to make a big effort to promote closing night and we have added part one of the Drivers Championship, a meet and greet, fireworks and a mystery voucher in an attempt to see if some of the marketing efforts that work at Tioga can work at the Meadowlands.

As you know, the eyes of the Standardbred world will be on racing at the Meadowlands as we showcase the best horses and drivers in the sport over the next month. Your attendance at the following events and commitment to the entry box for the final weeks of the meet are both vital and appreciated.

Thanks for your help and good luck in the upcoming stakes races as we hopefully finish out this season on a high note.

Sincerely,

Jeff Gural

Monday, August 1 – Hambletonian Charity Golf Outing
Hackensack Golf Club, 880 Soldier Road, Oradell, NJ
• Golfers are urgently needed for this event.
• Proceeds benefit the Standardbred Retirement Foundation and Harness Racing Museum and Hall of Fame.

Tuesday, August 2 – Hambletonian Post Position Draw and Press Conference
Time: 12:00 p.m., Pegasus Restaurant

Thursday, August 4 – World Driving Championship
• The race office needs your assistance in entering horses for the four World Driving Championship races.
• Your horses will be in the hands of the world’s top drivers in these events — all have won international, national or regional driving titles — and they are all seeking to win the WDC title for their country.

Saturday, August 6 – Hambletonian Day
• Autograph session: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in Paddock Park. The USTA will contact you directly about this event.

Saturday, August 20 – Tioga/Meadowlands Drivers’ Championship Round 1
• The race office needs your assistance in entering horses for the Drivers’ Championship races.
• Autograph session: 6-6:45 p.m.
• The drivers in the Meadowlands leg will carry the points they earn to Tioga on Sunday, August 28, for the final events. The leader in the Meadowlands round will earn $10,000 and will be in the best position to collect another $25,000 in the final round at Tioga.