by Jennifer Starr, for The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono

Wilkes-Barre, PA — The Harness Horse Youth Foundation Camp returns to the Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono in Wilkes Barre, Pa., the week of July 18-22.

Eleven children between the ages of 12 and 14 will be spending the week learning all about harness racing while working hands-on with the HHYF’s stable of Trottingbred horses. Among the topics covered will be care and grooming, equipment, conformation, lameness, history, stable management, and equine careers.

During the week, the campers enjoy several other events, including dinner at Pacers Clubhouse and a night watching the live harness racing action; riding in the starting gate and learning about the duties performed by the starter judge; as well as fun activities after hours, including bowling and a pool party.

This year, the children are all from across the state of Pennsylvania with the exception of one from Maryland. The camp is one of several across the country being conducted by HHYF this summer.

The Harness Horse Youth Foundation is a charitable 501(c)3 organization dedicated to providing young people and their families educational opportunities with harness horses, in order to foster the next generation of participants and fans. The Foundation was established in 1976 and its programs include interactive learning experiences with these versatile animals, scholarship programs and educational materials.

For more information on opportunities through HHYF and its mission, go to www.hhyf.org.