by Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — With the start of the live racing season just three weeks away, horseman should be advised this is the last call to turn in a stall application for the upcoming 2018 summer/fall meet.

Stall applications must be received by the track no later than Friday (July 6).

The backstretch opens for tack on Monday (July 16) at 8 a.m. and horses may begin arriving on Wednesday (July 18) at 8 a.m.

Stall applications are available for download on the track’s website (www.bataviadownsgaming.com). Simply click Live Racing>Horsemen>Stall Application and Agreement and also Stall Reservations. Applications are also available at the Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association office located onsite at Buffalo Raceway.

The first draw will be held on Thursday (July 19) for Monday (July 23) which is the first New York Sire Stake engagement of the year at the Downs.

Starting this meet, Batavia Downs will now have a six-race paddock with the opening of the new two-race barn which was built adjacent to the existing pre-race staging area. The 16-horse wash stall barn is also incorporated on that campus.

Batavia Downs will also offer its new text messaging service for notices about draws, entries and changes to the racing schedule. Horsemen are encouraged to text the word “HORSEMAN” to 51660. You will then need to reply “YES” and you’ll be opted in for race office text message updates.

All stable inquiries should be directed to Todd Haight, Director/GM of Live Racing, at 585.343.3750, ext. 6322.