Yonkers, NY — MGM Yonkers Raceway has created a new pop-up series to test the versatility of claiming fillies and mares.

The Can You Go The Distance series is for fillies and mares who have started for a claiming price of $50,000 or less in at least one of their last five starts, and will take place through the month of May. Entrants will compete in three legs and a final at four distances:

• $25,000 First Leg (May 2): half mile
• $25,000 Second Leg (May 9): one mile
• $25,000 Third Leg (May 16): 1-1/16 miles
• $40,000 Final (May 23): 1-1/2 miles

“When I was a kid, they had a series like this at Lebanon Raceway, and it was one of the biggest attractions,” said racing secretary Joe Frasure, who added that they offered a similar series at Pompano Park and it filled every week. “I think it will be interesting to see these horses compete at the different distances. I don’t think Yonkers has ever offered a half-mile race.”

Those interested in the Can You Go The Distance Series should note that the entry box closes at 3 p.m. on Thursday (April 27) for the first leg of the series, on May 2. Horses must start in the first leg to qualify for the races in the following weeks, and they must compete in all preliminary legs to be eligible for the final.

For more information on the series, call the Yonkers racing office at 914.457.2627.