Family Day on Monday at Scioto

by Ken Weingartner, Harness Racing Communications

Columbus, OH — Scioto Downs invites horse lovers of all ages to get a behind-the-scenes look at harness racing on Memorial Day, when the south Columbus harness track presents the first of three Family Days this season. Parking and admission are free on Memorial Day, with gates opening at 11:00 a.m. First race post time is 1:00 p.m.

Afternoon racing and free kids’ activities are offered along with the popular barn area tours, where racing fans get to meet Scioto’s horses and horsemen, learn how the starting gate operates, and see what goes on in the day-to-day life of those who make their living in Standardbred racing.

The barn area tours depart from the winner’s circle starting at 11:00 a.m., with the last one leaving at 11:30. Starting at 12:00 noon, there are free pony rides, face painters, and a castle obstacle course and moon bounce for kids. Radio station WCOL-FM will provide entertainment and prizes.

“I started these barn tours in 1997 and a decade later they still draw people,” said Anne Doolin, Scioto Downs’ public relations and marketing consultant. “I think these sort of undertakings are one of the most important things our sport can do. Getting to meet the horses and horsemen is the best p.r. there is.”

Memorial Weekend activities at Scioto kick off with the first Happy Hour Handicapping Contest on Friday, May 25. The free contest, which closes for entries at 6:15 p.m., features a top prize of a suite for six at a Columbus Clippers game, including all the frills, courtesy of Budweiser. Runner-up prizes include betting vouchers and Budweiser gear. Complete handicapping contest rules and regulations are available at the track.

Budweiser Happy Hour, with Bud specials at all walk-up bars, is offered every Friday night this season from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Scioto Downs’ regular racing schedule is Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, with a new post of 6:30 p.m. this season. Simulcasting, both Thoroughbred and Harness, is offered seven days a week, from mid-afternoon until 12:00 midnight or later.

For more information call (859) 983-0520.

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