by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — For the past month the search has been ongoing to find another racetrack executive willing to compete in Monticello Raceway’s third edition of the Battle of the Brain Trusts.

Just a few days ago the Mighty M received a call from Jerry Murkerson who said he’d love to compete in the race.

“I’m the City Manager of Hawkinsville, Ga. and as such I am in charge of the training center which is the winter home to more than 250 harness racing horses and we have an annual festival which features qualifying and matinee races,” Murkerson explained of his qualifications for entry in the Brain Trusts race.

Murkerson was reminded that Hawkinsville is a long way from Monticello, N.Y., to which he replied, “I know it is but I’d really love to drive in that race.”

With the addition of Murkerson the Mighty M will now have four competitors, just the amount that has been sought after for the race. Murkerson will join Monticello Raceway’s Assistant GM Shawn Wiles, Meadowlands GM Jason Settlemoir and Dover Downs’ VP of harness racing John Hensley.

Still, one problem remains and that is setting a date that would be compatible to all.

“Tentatively we’ll schedule the Battle of the Brain Trusts here at Monticello Raceway on either Monday (July 29) or Tuesday (July 30),” Shawn Wiles said. “But then again that date must fit the schedules of the competitors.

“And everyone (in the race) has had varying amounts of experience driving a harness horse so we’ll go with it then, or any date that everyone is available.”

The entrants will compete in jog carts without the use of whips and race over the usual one mile distance.

Twice previously Monticello Raceway has hosted events for race track executives and with good success.

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