by Moira Fanning, publicity director, the Hambletonian Society

Cranbury, NJ — The Wayne Smullin Memorial for 2-year-old pacers will not be raced in 2008, according to Rosecroft Raceway management.

The difficult decision to cancel the 23-year-old stake race was the result of an abridged racing calendar and a reduction in total purses offered for those 57 days of racing.

The Smullin, once called the Presidential Pace, was an important Grand Circuit stop and one Rosecroft hopes to restore in the future.

As provided in the conditions, refunds for the yearling nomination payments of May 2007 will be paid to the nominators.

For more information, contact Rosecroft Raceway at (301) 567-4000 or the Hambletonian Society, Inc. at (609) 371-2211.