by Mike Bozich, track announcer, Hazel Park

Hazel Park, MI — Hazel Park Harness Raceway kicks off its 58th season of live harness racing on Friday night (April 20) with a post time of 7:25 p.m.

Each and every Friday night, Hazel Park celebrates ‘Action on the Apron’ which means $1 hot dogs, soft drinks, popcorn and live programs, and $2 drafts. Hazel Park will also have its popular product giveaway, as well as a wagering ticket giveaway, and a drawing for two pairs of Detroit Tiger tickets!

Hazel Park Director of Racing/Race Secretary Ladd Biro has put together a very attractive and competitive wagering card that is sure to put even the most skilled handicapper to the test.

It doesn’t take long for the action to heat up, as fillies and mares take front and center stage in a preferred event in race three. Morning line favorite Johnny Made Her will be looking to repeat the effort two starts back when she dominated Northville’s top class in 1:56.4. Her last start was a third place finish at Balmoral Park, where she came home in a solid :27.1.

Main competition figures to come from Kayla’s Raider (second to Johnny two starts back), and Scootin T, who always races well at Hazel.

The ninth race on the card is an Open Trot valued at $9,400. The one to beat is the 7-year-old Inquirer gelding Habanero. “Habs” has posted some impressive stats (20 wins over the last two years) since young Tyler Buter has taken over the training/driving duties.

Make no mistake, however, as Habanero will have his hands full. Honor The Cash is making his 2007 debut on Friday night. Fans surely remember that this 7-year-old was dominant in the invitational ranks in Michigan over the past few years.

Other threats include Benn’s Sure Thing, who is coming off two decent efforts in the Opens at Northville, and Ashwood Ace, who overcame a break and the eight hole to win his last start.

If you can’t join us in person, log on to www.hazelparkraceway.com, where you can watch all of the live action for free via streaming video. Hazel Park races Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday with a post time of 7:25 p.m.