from Harness Tracks of America

Tucson, AZ — The New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority voted president and CEO Dennis Robinson power to enter into an agreement with the Standardbred Breeders and Owners and Jeff Gural concerning leasing the Meadowlands to their rescue group if it is created.

The agreement spells out exclusivity.

The racing commission, meanwhile, restored a racing schedule of 141 dates, split between harness and runners, and SBOA president Tom Luchento said he thought there would be about 85 days of live harness at the Meadowlands if all goes according to plan.

Newark Star-Ledger harness writer Ray Brienza wrote that fans will determine the Big M’s future by their turnouts this winter.