by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — On two previous occasions Monticello Raceway has hosted events for race track executives called the Battle of the Brain Trusts, and with good success. Now the third edition of the race is in the works for later this season and already there’s interest.

Like the previous contests, the Battle of the Brain Trusts III is a unique non-wagering one mile race open only to CEOs, track presidents, track VPs, general managers, assistant general managers and any others whose decision makings help guide the fortunes of their racing oriented establishments.

For the record the race is contested in jog carts without the use of whips. The exact date of ‘the Battle’ is yet to be solidified.

“We already have three executives longing to get back in action,” noted Eric Warner, Monticello Raceway’s Director of Racing. “Our general manager, Shawn Wiles, is ready and so are Jason Settlemoir, of the Meadowlands and Tioga Downs, and John Hensley, from Dover Downs. Now all we need is one or two more for a race.

“I hear there’s word that Bob Galtiero and Peter Szymanski are interested in competing, but both gentlemen currently seem a bit reluctant to join in at this time. Perhaps they’ll soften-up as the weather gets better.”

Of course the race is not only open to the aforementioned executives, it’s open to any and all executives who would like a chance to drive in a horse race.

A few years ago Mike Tanner, then with Harrah’s Chester, was considering participating. Now that he’s with the USTA he’s still eligible and would make a great addition to the race. And recently the idea was run by Steve Jones of Cameo Acres, who is the VP of the Board of Directors at Historic Track.

Obviously, any executive who is interested in driving must practice with a professional trainer before he — or she — gets a seat behind a pacer in the event. However, with the race date to be set for later this year, there’s plenty of time for the participants to gain confidence and experience.

“Perhaps a great time to stage this race could be around or within the dates of the USTA Driving School which will again be held in Goshen, N.Y., at Historic Track and the Mark Ford Training Center in Middletown, N.Y., from May 29-June 2,” Warner suggested. “Those dates could be custom made for any executive who would like to practice before they drive in a race.”

Currently Warner is seeking drivers for the Battle of the Brain Trusts III.

“I would like any interested participant to contact our publicity director John Manzi for further information,” Warner added. “He can be reached in his office by calling 845.794.4100, ex. 455.”