The curtain fell on the 2025 summer/fall harness racing meet at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Dec. 20) and the Upstate New York Chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association doled out awards to the meet’s leading driver, trainer and horses in trackside presentations during the program.
Author: by Tim Bojarski, President of UNY-USHWA
Bruce Aldrich Jr, gets 9,000th win in Monticello opener
On Wednesday (Feb. 25), the aptly named Win And Dream gave Bruce Aldrich Jr. his 9,000th win in the first race at Monticello Raceway.
OSS-eligible yearlings must be registered and have DNA and microchipping complete before nominating
The Ontario Sires Stakes (OSS) program coordinator would like to remind all participants with OSS-eligible yearlings that yearlings must be registered at the time of nomination and Standardbred Canada requires that the DNA and microchipping be completed before the foal is registered.
Flight Of Fritz upsets in MVG feature
Flight Of Fritz used a ground saving trip and a stretch rally to upset in the $22,000 N/W 10PM claimer, the feature on Tuesday night’s (Feb. 24) Miami Valley card.
Meadowlands to bid on hosting Hambletonian in 2027
The Meadowlands, who will host the Hambletonian this year in August, is planning to submit a bid to be the host again in 2027 according to the Paulick Report.
Churchill Downs in dispute with HISA over assessment fees
The U.S. Trotting Association has long opposed the Horseracing Integrity & Safety Act (HISA), citing several concerns, including the substantial financial burdens it imposes on the industry.
Greg Merton reaches 6,000 wins
It would be hard to be more Monticello than Greg Merton. He jogged his first horse at age 6 and was in the business full time by the time he was 16 at the famed Catskill Mountain oval. Wednesday afternoon (Feb. 18), the 52-year-old horsemen reached another milestone in his long career with his 6,000th win.
2026 Ohio Stakes Guide now available online
The 2026 Ohio Stakes Guide is now available on the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association website.
Mohawk Monday entries remain open; Friday qualifiers moved to Saturday
Woodbine Mohawk Park’s Race Office would like to inform trainers that the entry box for Monday’s (Feb. 23) live racing card will remain open until tomorrow morning (Thursday, Feb. 19) at 10:30 a.m.
NYSGC seeks Director of Racing Investigations
Schenectady, NY – The New York State Gaming Commission seeks a Director of Racing Investigations. Under the Director of the Division of Horse Racing and Pari-Mutuel Wagering, the incumbent will work as…