by Tami Hartman

Circleville, OH — The Pickaway County Fair has announced the addition of the Ohio Ladies Pace to its harness racing program. This race, which features female drivers from across the state, will be part of the new card to be raced on Monday (June 19).

The Ohio Ladies Pace is a series which was created in 2015 to showcase the driving talents of women involved in harness racing. Although many women participate in the industry as owners, breeders, grooms, and trainers, women drivers are still fairly uncommon. The Ladies Pace series provides women drivers with a place to spotlight their abilities and draw attention to women in the sport.

The series has proven highly successful in its short existence. In its first year, 16 fairs participated. This year, 26 fairs will host the event. The race has become a fan favorite, as there is nothing “ladylike” about the tough, aggressive driving style of these women. Although there is strong camaraderie among the 20 or so regular participants, there is no doubt each is there to win. Competing drivers earn points for each race, with the top nine drivers at the end of the season qualifying to participate in a final raced at the Delaware County Fairgrounds during Little Brown Jug week.

The Ohio Ladies Pace to be held at the Circleville fairgrounds will be the second leg in the series. The Ladies Pace and the Steamin’ Demon Pace will be co-headlining Monday night’s race card. Fans will also see 2- and 3-year-old filly pacers compete. Other activities include giveaway events and prize drawings to be held throughout the program. Prizes include many items from local businesses and retailers.

Post time for Monday’s races will be 5:30 p.m. Grandstand admission is included in fair admission. Harness racing will also be conducted on Saturday (June 17) and Sunday (June 18) at 1 p.m. Admission is free. Pari-mutuel wagering will be available for all races.