by Emily Gaskin for Hoosier Park Racinig and Casino

Anderson, IND — Hoosier Park Racing & Casino, in partnership with the Indiana Standardbred Association (ISA), hosted the annual Girl Scouts night at the races on Friday (June 10). The event offered more than 200 young women the opportunity to witness live harness racing and learn about the various facets of the industry.

“This is one of our most popular events,” said Rick Moore, Hoosier Park’s vice president and general manger of racing. “From live harness racing action, plus fun and educational activities for both kids and adults, this is what the sport is all about. We saw so many smiling faces and people enjoying a night at the races, we would like to thank everyone who took the time to participate and make this event possible.”

The Girl Scouts and their families received a “behind the scenes” look at horse racing through backside tours provided by Hoosier Park’s drivers and trainers. Each of the tours visited the facility’s stabling area and allowed the Girl Scouts to meet some of the champion horses currently racing and residing at Hoosier Park up close and personal.

The ISA and the Harness Horse Youth Foundation provided demonstrations that are key to the sport such as veterinary care, equipment information and a blacksmith presentation.

Educational material and interactive exercises were also provided for the Girl Scouts and their families.

Hoosier Park’s champion drivers also signed autographs and were available for photographs throughout the evening. In addition to a horse shoe decorating station, games and giveaways, the Girl Scouts had an opportunity to meet and take photos with Indiana Sires Stakes champion and millionaire trotter ABC Mercedes.

“We’ve never been out to the racetrack,” said Nicole Smith, a parent in attendance. “Our girls have had so much fun, they loved seeing the horses; it’s safe to say after a great night like tonight this will be the first of many for us at Hoosier Park.”

In conjunction with the Girl Scout activities, racing fans also had the opportunity to donate $5 to the Girl Scouts of Central Indiana to receive $5 in Casino Cash. Upon the card’s conclusion, Indigo performed a free show in the Terrace Showroom.

Live racing will return to Hoosier Park Racing & Casino on Saturday (June 11) with a 13-race card.

With a daily post time of 5:45 p.m., live racing at Hoosier Park will follow a Tuesday through Saturday schedule. The 160-day harness racing season will be conducted through November 12.

For more information on the upcoming entertainment and live racing schedule at Hoosier Park, please visit www.hoosierpark.com.