by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway
Monticello, NY — The backstretch at Monticello Raceway is abuzz with chatter. The caretakers are ready and champing on the bit.
On Wednesday afternoon (September 14) after the fifth race, six hardworking caretakers will don driving colors and settle on a perch behind a spirited steed and compete over the usual one mile distance in jog carts without the use of whips, each trying to win the huge trophy awaiting the victor.
“It’s an exciting thing for the grooms to be able to participate in since they work hard day-in and day–out,” said Eric Warner, the Mighty M’s Director of Racing. “I know that they are anxiously awaiting to drive and any one of the grooms would love to have their picture taken in the winner’s circle.”
Two races for caretakers are slated over the next couple of days. On Wednesday (September 14) and again on Thursday (September 15), two six-horse races will go to post as non-wagering affairs between the fifth and sixth race on each day.
The Wednesday caretakers competing include John Houghtaling, Carlton Oney, Dan Chansky, Elaine Diaz, Danielle Daley and Kip Banks. The Thursday field includes Ashley Banks, Cody Houghtaling, Connie Lawrence, Mike Farnham, Jeff Branning and Adele Prince.
Last year, Daniel Houghtaling won his event with Auditor in a time of 2:07.3 while Jonathan Oney was victorious in his contest behind Bibbo Blue in 2:12.4.
The Caretaker Classic races will be shown on Monticello Raceway’s live simulcast signal each day. Post time for the 13-race cards on both days is at the usual 12:50 p.m. with 2:10 p.m. as the approximate post time for the Caretaker’s Classic events.