by Paul Ramlow, USTA Internet News Editor

Columbus, OH — Ohio’s four pari-mutuel harness racing tracks have been awarded a total of 495 racing dates for 2008, according to a release from the Ohio State Racing Commission.

Northfield Park will race 207 dates next year, with a January 2-December 30 schedule.

Raceway Park has been granted 100 dates, with a season that will begin on March 22 and close on November 30.

Lebanon Raceway will offer 93 dates of racing with a split-season schedule. They will race 48 dates from January 18-May 3 and 45 dates from September 19-December 27.

Scioto Downs has been granted 95 dates, with their 2008 season to open on May 1 and close on September 20.