by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — Expect the unexpected from Monticello Raceway. The racetrack that has presented such unforgettable events as the Battle of the Bosses, the Bartenders Derby, the Battle of the Broadcasters, the Legal Eagle Pace, the Battle of the New York Legends and the Passover Pace, now has plans to resurrect its Battle of the Brain Trusts, a unique non-wagering one mile race that will feature CEO’s, track presidents, general managers, assistant general managers and any others whose decision makings help guide the fortunes of their racing establishments.

Though the exact date of the Battle is yet to be solidified it will be a date that will be congruent for all the participants.

Initially presented during July two years ago, the race was won by then Monticello Casino & Raceway President and CEO Dave Hanlon. He defeated Tom Charters, President and CEO of the Hambletonian Society, Jason Settlemoir, Vice President of Racing at both Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs, and John Hensley, Vice President of Racing at Dover Downs.

Since Mr. Hanlon has moved on I’d be glad to represent our racetrack,” said Shawn Wiles, Monticello Casino & Raceway’s Assistant General Manager. “I’ve run this by Jason (Settlemoir) and he said verbatim: ‘cool, let me know when,’ so I guess we can count on him returning. I’ll reach out for Charters or Hensley and see if they are interested to drive again.”

According to Eric Warner, the Mighty M’s Director of Racing, he’s all for staging another race for track executives.

“We have been kicking around the idea of another Battle of the Brain Trusts for a while now and though Mr. Hanlon is no longer here Shawn (Wiles) will be a great replacement,” Warner said. “Now we just need to get enough drivers to fill a race.”

In the inaugural Battle, Mike Tanner, then of Harrah’s Chester, was invited to drive but he said that he needed more practice. But now that he’s with the USTA and has taken some lessons maybe he’ll participate this time.

Any executive who is interested in driving obviously must practice with a professional trainer before he — or she — gets a seat behind a pacer in the event. However, with the race still a month or two away there is plenty of time for anyone who wants to participate to gain experience.

The Battle of the Brain Trusts will be a one mile event contested in jog carts and without the use of whips.

Currently Warner is seeking drivers for the Battle of the Brain Trusts.

“I would like any interested participant to contact our publicity director John Manzi for further information,” Warner added. “He can be reached in his office by calling 845.794.4100, ext. 455.”