by Frank Drucker, Publicity Director, Empire City at Yonkers Raceway

Yonkers, NY — Halloween brought out the usual array of scary sights, but none quite as horrifying as the creature lurking in Yonkers Raceway’s winner’s circle.

Mike Lizzi photo

Track photographer Mike Lizzi got into the ‘spirit’ of the holiday.

At first glance, the ghoulish figure appeared to be a better-looking version of bon vivant track photographer Mike Lizzi, though independent confirmation was unavailable.

While the face was hideous, we’re happy to report that no two- or four-legged creatures were harmed by gazing directly at it, and the 11-race program continued without incident.

“I just wanted to get in the ‘spirit’ of the holiday,” Lizzi, or his alter ego, said.

A reminder that the Raceway’s final Thursday card of the season takes place this week (Nov. 2), with a dozen races at the usual first post of 7:10 p.m. The other four nights, Monday, Tuesday, Friday (except Nov. 24) and Saturday (except Nov. 25) remain at 7:10 p.m., while Sunday matinees return Nov. 12 (post time for that card is 11:25 a.m.).