Nappanee Raceway, part of the northern Indiana Trottingbred pony racing circuit, is seeking Standardbred industry sponsors for its 2024 racing season, which begins May 31 and runs through Sept. 27.

The racetrack, a non-profit run by volunteers, is one of three tracks that make up a circuit that could well be described as the “minor leagues” of harness racing, as so many of the young trainers and drivers who race there later go on to establish full time careers in harness racing.

“For decades we’ve been the proving grounds for a lot of youngsters and families who’ve had tremendous success in the harness racing business,” said Nappanee vice president Adam Yoder. “There are guys training and driving now who got their start here, like Jay Cross, LeWayne Miller, Atlee Bender, Elson Miller, Kevin Lambright and Kevin Slabaugh, and families like the Rheinheimers and Hooleys. And many, many Standardbred owners and breeders as well.”

Nappanee Raceway is an extremely popular spot on summer racing weekends, with well over 1,000 in attendance on any given racing night and at least twice that — standing room only — for stakes events. Ever growing and improving its product, this year the 5/16-mile track is introducing a new stakes series for 2- and 3-year-olds of both gaits and sexes, with lucrative finals on the last night of the season.

“I really hope the Standardbred industry can get behind us, as I feel we’ve done a great job in constantly bringing new blood to the sport. After all, we’re all in harness racing together,” Yoder said.

Individuals or companies interested in a sponsorship may download the form here or call Glendon Yoder at 260.585.4030 (email gyoder627@gmail.com). Information on the racing circuit can be found at itpa.biz.