by Robert Lieberman

Norwood, MA — The Memorial Day racing card at Plainridge Racecourse will have a very unique added touch to it, because during two conditioned races on the card, the pros will take on the amateurs.

It is the first time that anything like this has been done at the track, as the top four professional drivers in wins will take on the top three point getting amateurs and the highest ranked UDR driver of the group in a two-race challenge in the third and fifth race.

The professionals have offered to donate their share of the purses to a charity of their choice.

The hope is that this challenge will turn into an annual event, so get out to the track on Memorial Day and root your favorite group or driver to the winner’s circle.

The amateurs competing are Barry Caruso, Mario Martellotta Sr., Bill Abdelnour and Marc Bouthillier. The four pros will be Mike Eaton, Jim Hardy, Drew Campbell and John Hogan.

Racing continues on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, with a post time at 4:00 p.m., through June 5.