by Moira Fanning, publicity director, The Hambletonian Society

Cranbury, NJ — When the top money-earners among the dozen trotting mares entered to contest their Crown division declined a bye to the final, the connections of Autumn Escapade and Lavec Dream were eager to advance directly to the Aug. 22 final.

Divisional leader Classic Lane opted to race rather than take a bye and drew post 10 in the $40,000 elimination on Saturday, Aug. 15. The next highest money-earner for the season, Spice Queen, also wanted a race before the final and drew post nine. The first eight finishers in the single elim will advance to the final and the elim winner may choose her post position.

The Breeders Crown Mare Trot is one of four open events worth a combined $1.6 million, along with $400,000 Woodrow Wilson and $350,000 Sweetheart scheduled for closing night at The Meadowlands, Saturday, August 22.

The draw will be televised live on Big M TV during the Saturday card. The track is dark Friday, Aug. 14.