by Peter Szymanski, general manager, Ocean Downs

Berlin, MD — A special notice has been issued to all horsemen who intend to participate in the late closing program and overnight races this summer at Ocean Downs. All restrictions for three of the late closing events — The Dawn Trader Memorial, The Bob Cotton Memorial and The Austin Thomas Memorial — have been lifted.

“In an effort to reach out to our fellow horsemen in neighboring states, the Maryland horsemen have agreed to open claiming races to other states, including the late closers,” said Tom Cooke, president of the Cloverleaf Standardbred Owners Association. “All bottom price claimers from $4,000 to $7,500 in overnight races will also be open to the world.”

With an average purse distribution of $50,000 per diem, Cooke is hoping for harness racing’s return to glory.

“The total purse account for the summer will be a record breaking $2 million,” said Cooke.

The Ocean Downs 40 night racing season gets underway on Sunday, June 19, and continues through Sunday, August 28. Post time is set for 7 p.m.

Those horsemen wishing to participate are asked to fill out the respective application forms which are located at the track’s website at www.oceandowns.com.