by Nick Pappas, for Ocean Downs

Berlin, MD — Ocean Downs kicks off the first of 40 nights of racing this Sunday (June 19), highlighted by four divisions in the Bob Mitchell Memorial Pacing Series. The event is named in honor of a long standing owner on the eastern shore.

The first division features Greg Callahan and his pacer, Prayer Answered. Prayer Answered was a 1:56.1 winner in his last start at Harrington Raceway.

Mike Hall’s Rhea Nourrir appears to be the horse to beat in the second division. The 3-year-old Dragon Again filly has captured more than $10,000 in 2011.

In the third division Wayne Long’s Dutch’s Gal has won nearly $20,000 in purse money in 2011 and appears to be the horse to catch.

In the fourth and final division Mark Gray’s Quiet Judy ships in from Balmoral Park and appears to be best.

Free Ocean Downs baseball caps will be handed out with purchase of a live racing program. Parking and admission are always free with several new concession stands located throughout the plant for all racing patrons. Post time for the first race is set for 7 p.m.