Considerable interest in Monticello Raceway’s Au Revoir
December 16, 2010,by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway
Monticello, NY — Monticello Raceway first instituted the Au Revoir, a race for 14-year-olds only, on Dec. 31, 1991 and over the years, despite dedicated efforts, only four others have filled but now the track is on the verge of presenting another one. As all in harness racing know, when horses become 15 years of age, for all intents and purposes their racing careers are over.
“There has been considerable interest in our race this season and there are quite a few 14-year-olds still racing at this time, many who have already inquired about our Au Revoir,” noted Shawn Wiles, the track’s General Manager.
Director of Racing Eric Warner said he has heard from owners of at least six pacers who are interested in possibly racing in the Au Revoir.
“I have heard from the connections of Prince Rama A, Sinbad, Jaccka Seelster N, Jaccamo A, Mr Touring and Southwind Night who all would like to have their pacers compete in our Au Revoir on Friday afternoon, Dec. 31,” Warner said. “And through the grapevine I heard that there are others considering to race, also.”
Over the years the New York State Racing and Wagering Board has allowed Monticello Raceway to use both pacers and trotters in the Au Revoir in an effort to give the track a better chance of filling the race.
With that in mind, trotter Boomer Berman could enter. The venerable old timer has won 13 races this year. Another veteran with a successful 14-year-old campaign is pacer Zaire N, who has 12 wins to his credit this season.
“I know that there are others out there who are still racing at this time of the year who may want to venture to Monticello for a final race,” Warner added. “We certainly would welcome them.”
This season Monticello Raceway is offering a $7,500 purse in the Au Revoir with hopes of enticing a full field.
Anyone wanting more information — or to enter a horse in the Au Revoir — can do so by contacting Warner in the racing office by calling 845.794.4100, ext. 557; or they can contact the track’s publicity office at ext. 455.