by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — With less than a month to go, Dave Hanlon, Monticello Raceway’s CEO, has been practicing for the competition against his counterparts in what will be the first-ever Battle of the Brain Trusts, a race for CEO’s, track presidents, general managers and any others whose decision making helps guide the fortunes of the establishments.

The event is slated for Wednesday, July 2, at Monticello Raceway, the track that over the years has presented such unforgettable events as the Battle of the Bosses, the Bartenders Derby, the Battle of the Broadcasters, the Legal Eagle Pace, the Battle of the New York Legends, the Elephantonian, and countless races for different ethnicities, to mention a few.

Hanlon, the Chief Executive Office and President and member of the Board of Directors of Monticello Gaming & Raceway, is a former President and Chief Operating Office of Rio Suites Hotel & Casino. Though he has no prior experience with harness horses Hanlon has experience with equines and was an avid polo player a few years ago.

He is serious about the competition and he is a devotee of Vince Lombardi’s, “Winning isn’t everything; it’s the only thing.”

“I’m in it to win it,” Hanlon says unequivocally. “No question about it; second place will not do.”

Though the field(s) are not yet set, expected entrants include, among others, Bobby Soper, president and general manager of Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs; Rick Pullman, CEO and president of Connecticut OTB; Jason Settlemoir, regional vice president of racing and simulcasting at Tioga Downs and Vernon; John Hensley, vice president of racing operations at Dover Downs; and Tom Charters, president and CEO of the Hambletonian Society.

However, no one can participate unless they practice, or have practiced, with a certified trainer or driver.

The race will be contested in jog carts without the use of whips at the usual one mile distance.

Any “Brain Trust” interested in participating is urged to contact Eric Warner, the track’s racing secretary, by calling (845) 794-4100, ext. 557 or they can contact the track’s publicity office at ext. 455.