by Marv Bachrad, publicity director, Dover Downs

Dover, DE — Dover Downs’ first draw takes place Tuesday (Oct. 27) for races on the 2015-2016 season’s opening day (Monday, Nov. 2).

The Wednesday (Oct. 28) draw is for Tuesday racing (Nov. 3).

Daily condition sheets are available in the Race Office, as well as on the internet at www.doverdowns.com or on the USTA website.

The Dover Downs Race Office will accept entries from 10:30 a.m. until 12 Noon sharp. The lowest priced non-Delaware owned claimer is $7,500.

For those seeking to qualify, horses must be dropped in on Tuesday for Wednesday qualifying races. The first qualifying races are set for Oct. 28.

Race Secretary Rod Newhart’s schedule of daily feature races during the 2015-2016 meet is as follows: The top pace, the $30,000 Preferred and $27,500 Delaware Special, will head the Monday card. On Tuesdays, the feature race will be a $20,000 Filly and Mare Open Pace. The week’s top event for diagonally gaited performers, an $18,000 Open Trot, will be raced on Thursdays.

Monday (Nov. 2) is the date to enter horses nominated to the four rich Matron 2-year-old stakes to be raced on Thursday (Nov. 5). The Matron 3-year-old division entry day is Monday (Nov. 9), to be raced on Nov. 12.

To supplement to a Matron event, a $20,000 fee is required for a 2-year-old and a $25,000 supplemental fee for 3-year-olds.

On race days, the Race Office is open from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone numbers are 302.857.3230 or 302.674.4600 ext. 3230. To fax, dial 302.741.8986.

Dover Downs racetrack is now open for training. The daily schedule is Monday through Thursday starting at 8 a.m. until 12 Noon. The track is closed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and on non-racing days.

The daily racing schedule in November and December is Monday through Thursday with post time at 4:30 p.m. During the first two months there is no live racing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. In January and February, a sixth day of racing, Sunday, is added with a 5:30 p.m. post time.

Simulcasting of harness and thoroughbred racing and NFL three-game wagering is available daily from 12 Noon until 12 Midnight. There is no charge for parking and admission. Early reservations are suggested for the Winner’s Circle Restaurant and for those planning to stay at the Dover Downs Hotel. Call 302.674.4600.