by Marv Bachrad, publicity director, Dover Downs

Dover, DE — The Dover Downs track is now open for training for the upcoming 2012-2013 meet, Mondays through Thurdays from 8 a.m. until 12 noon.

The first qualifying day is Wednesday (Oct. 31) starting at 10 a.m. Qualifying horses must be declared on Tuesday (Oct. 30).

The first draw takes place Monday (Oct. 29) for opening day on Sunday (Nov. 4); the Tuesday (Oct. 30) draw is for Monday (Nov. 5) and for Wednesday qualifying races; the draw on Wednesday (Oct. 31) will be for Tuesday (Nov. 6); and on Thursday (Nov. 1) for Wednesday (Nov. 7).

During the first week, Oct. 29–Nov. 1, the Race Office will be open from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m.

Beginning Nov. 4, the Race Office will take entries from 10 a.m. until 12 noon sharp, with no exceptions. On race days, the Race Office is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The Race Office phone numbers are 302.857.3230 or 302.674.4600, ext. 3230. To fax use 302.741.8986.

The daily condition sheet will be published on the track website: www.doverdowns.com.

During November and December, Dover Downs will race Monday through Thursday with post time at 4:30 p.m. Sunday racing begins at 5:30 p.m. During the first two month there is no live racing on Friday and Saturday.

In January and February, a sixth day of racing, Saturday, is added and along with Sunday, post time for weekend racing will be 1 p.m. and remain on Monday through Thursday at 4:30 p.m.

Race secretary Rod Newhart stresses horses for the opening week of racing must be submitted from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. sharp. Late entries will not be accepted.

The Dover Downs season features 15 races daily. During the upcoming 120-day meet, there are a handful of non-live racing day exceptions. There will be no racing on:

• Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 22
• The traditional one-week Christmas break, Dec. 21-28
• New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31
• Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 3
• Easter Sunday, March 31

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 Dover Downs Hotel. Call 302.674.4600.