by M. Kelly Young, executive director, Harness Horse Breeders of New York

Nichols, NY — Tioga Downs will disburse more than $1 million in purses during the two-weekend New York State Fair meet that begins this Saturday, August 11.

New York-bred 2- and 3-year-old trotters and pacers will compete for more than $800,000 in State Fair purses over the five days and the $225,000 Dr. Harry M. Zweig Memorial Trot will host some of the top 3-year-olds in the country.

The meet will be held Saturday and Sunday, August 11 and 12, and Saturday through Monday, August 18 through 20.

The highlight of the meet will be the $225,000 Dr. Harry M. Zweig Memorial Trot on Sunday, August 19. This event is for 3-year-old colts and fillies and is open to the world. Among the eligible horses is Donato Hanover, winner of the $1.5 million Hambletonian on August 4. Hambletonian Oaks starter Falls For You leads the eligibles in the filly division.

The raceway will offer Family Days on both Sunday afternoons with activities for children on the apron. Horsemen and owners are also invited to the “Tioga Tent” for food and drinks on both Sundays, graciously sponsored by Tioga Downs, Allerage Farm, Perretti Farms, Brittany Farms, Walnut Hall Ltd., the Standardbred Horse Sales Company and American Racing, Gaming and Entertainment.

Sunday afternoon cards begin at 1:15 p.m. All other post times are 6:50 p.m.

The complete schedule of events is:

Saturday, Aug. 11—State Fair 2-Year-Old Colt and Filly Pacers
Sunday, Aug. 12—State Fair 3-Year-Old Colt and Filly Trotters
Saturday, Aug. 18—State Fair 3-Year-Old Colt Pacers
Sunday, Aug. 19—Dr. Harry M. Zweig Memorial Trot, State Fair 3-Year-Old Filly Pacers
Monday, Aug. 20—State Fair 2-Year-Old Colt and Filly Trotters

For more information about the State Fair meet, contact Harness Horse Breeders at (518) 785-5858 or Tioga Downs at (607) 699-3900.