by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — Look out drivers, longtime perennial leader Brad Kramer is returning home to Michigan.

After a five month stint on the east coast one of the Wolverine State’s leading reinsmen is preparing to be back in action over the familiar surroundings at Northville Downs and Windsor Raceway, across the bridge in Ontario.

Brad Kramer

Kramer, whose driving ability is among the tops in North America, did well while spending the majority of his time competing at Saratoga Harness and Monticello Raceway.

With Monticello Raceway as his home base, Kramer initially did double-duty, driving at The Mighty M Mondays through Thursdays and then at Saratoga Harness on Fridays and Saturdays. And he did well at both places.

He started slowly at Monticello after arriving in October but once the local training colony recognized his ability he began picking up catch-drives. And at Saratoga his driving prowess shined and there were many nights during the late fall that Kramer would post three or four winners on a card and even won five races on a few evenings.

When Saratoga closed in December Kramer still had Monticello where he became one of the most sought after catch-drivers though the big city action in greater New York City alluded him.

Though recently Kramer has been slowly getting drives at Yonkers, and a few at the Meadowlands, too, they were few and far between for a driver of his talent.

“I was really hoping to catch on at Yonkers or the Meadowlands but it didn’t work out this time around,” Kramer said philosophically. “It’s hard to get started anywhere new without bringing with you some decent horses. But for my first try on the east coast I think I made a good showing for myself.”

Indeed you did Brad.

Kramer is leaving the Mighty M as the second leading driver with 28 wins.

“I really enjoyed racing here,” Kramer added. “The local drivers are a good bunch of guys and they have been gracious and a pleasure to race against. And I’m very appreciative of the local trainers, especially those who allowed me to drive their stock. The front office, the racing secretary and the publicity department couldn’t have been nicer. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to return sometime soon.”

Among those who are saddened to see Kramer leave is Eric Warner, the track’s director of racing.

“He’s been a pleasure to have racing with us and I hate to see him go,” Warner said about Kramer’s departing. “He’s a capable horseman and a very good driver.”