by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — Monticello Raceway will begin the 2009 harness racing season with a 13-race card on New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1, and close out the week with live race cards on Friday, January 2 and Saturday, January 3.

Following the aforementioned race dates, The Mighty M will offer live harness action on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays throughout the month, with one exception. There will be no live race program on Monday, January 19.

All post times will continue to be at 12:40 p.m.

The raceway’s ninth annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a race that showcases the talents of African-American drivers, will be contested on Thursday, January 15, which, by the way, is the actual birthday of the great civil rights leader.

Simulcast wagering on harness and thoroughbreds will continue seven days a week throughout the month.