from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — The Red Mile president Joe Costa said he is “greatly encouraged” by the early response to the 2011 Grand Circuit stakes scheduled for Sept. 29-Oct. 9 at the track in Lexington, Ky.

According to a story on harnessracing.com, while nominations for this year’s Kentucky Futurity and Tattersalls Pace closed March 15, others, such as the Bluegrass Series, International Stallion Stakes and Allerage Farms Series for older horses have payment schedules that stretch into April and May.

“I am greatly encouraged by the response from horsemen who continue to support the Grand Circuit stakes schedule here at The Red Mile,” Costa told harnessracing.com. “Because the numbers are strong, it is apparent that the racing in 2011 will be just as good, if not better, than what we saw in 2010. And that is exciting to all of us.”