by John Manzi, for the Delvin Miller Harness Drivers Association

Monticello, NY — Three non-wagering Eastern Region divisions of the C.K.G. Billings Harness Driving Championship Series will go to post on Monday, September 13, prior to the betting card at Yonkers Raceway.

In all, 17 trotters were accommodated in the three splits, with two six-horse fields and one five-horse event. All three divisions will go for a purse of $6,000.

Headlining the drivers competing is Simeon “Hot-Rod” Hunsdon who is atop the Eastern Region leaderboard with 79 points. He’ll handle R Miracle Missy and start from post position three in the second split. Among Hunsdon’s competition in that division will be Dave “Steady As” Yarock whose 70 points currently have him in third place. He’ll drive PA Plates and leave from the four hole.

Among the others with mounts on Monday include former National Amateur Drivers of the Year, Rob “Rapid Rail” Krivelin and “Smokin’ Joe” Faraldo as well as the series’ new president Tony “the Capo” Verruso. In from Chicago to compete are the father-daughter team of “Chicago George” Bonomo and “Michelle the Belle” Ruvola. Also ready for action is “Lightning Laura” Mac Namara who currently sits ninth on the leaderboard with 56 points.

The current Eastern Region leaderboard’s top ten in points is as follows: Simeon Hunsdon (79); Cory Stratton, now a professional (72); Dave Yarock (70); Tony “the Capo” Verruso (69); “Gentleman Jamie” Marra (68); “Coach Paul” Minore (63); Rob Krivelin (61); “Cowboy Eric” Taddeo (58); Laura Mac Namara (56); and Peter “the Past President” Gerry and Joe Faraldo, each with 52 points.

Post time for the Billings trots will be at 6 p.m., followed by the betting card at 7:10 p.m.