by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — Have you ever wondered what it takes to become an owner of a harness horse? Anyone interested in owning a Standardbred who resides near Monticello or Goshen, N.Y., is urged to attend a free seminar at Monticello Raceway on Sunday afternoon, July 27, sponsored by Monticello Raceway, Hanover Shoe Farms and the United States Trotting Association.

Beginning at 12:00 noon on Sunday, July 27, attendees will have a chance to listen to experts and ask questions.

Jamie Coffy, Outreach Administrator for the United States Trotting Association, will begin the seminar with an overview of how to get involved with harness racing. She’ll discuss trainer selection, horse selection, where to race, and how to take the next steps. Ms. Coffy will also present a Power Point presentation which will be entertaining as well as informative.

Betty Holt, from the Harness Horse Breeders of New York State, will also be on hand to talk about harness horse breeding and how to select a yearling, should that be your direction.

Alan Schwartz, a successful trainer-driver, will talk about his experiences and how he, a one-time moving company executive, changed his career and got involved in harness racing.

Also slated to address the attendees is Michael Kimelman, the President of the world famous Blue Chip Farms in Wallkill, N.Y. Kimelman, a former professional trainer-driver also changed his direction in the harness racing industry and now heads the number one Standardbred breeding farm in New York State.

All attendees will receive a one year subscription to Hoof Beats magazine, a New Owners booklet that is informative and user friendly and $10 worth of USTA PATHWAY credits if they provide a valid e-mail address.

Advance registration is requested and a free lunch will be provided for those who RSVP by July 21.

Please contact John Manzi at Monticello Raceway by calling (845) 794-4100, ext: 455 if you are interested in joining the seminar on July 27. Interested parties can also contact Jamie Coffy at the U.S. Trotting Association at (877) 800-8782, ext. 3260.