by Jason Bluhm and Scott Hobbs, for Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs

Nichols, NY — Diplomas in hand, the 2007 Racing College graduating class is ready for another exciting season of live harness racing at Tioga and Vernon Downs.

The 2008 Racing College school year opens at Vernon Downs on March 15 and continues on March 16 at Tioga Downs. This will be the first installment of Handicapping 101. Learn the ins and outs of handicapping from the “Professor” Jason Settlemoir.

Settlemoir, Regional Vice President of Racing and Simulcast at Tioga and Vernon Downs, was thrilled with the 2007 turnout and interest of the participants.

“This is a fun class but also a lot of great information is given out to help make our guests savvy handicappers and bettors which will make their visits to Tioga and Vernon Downs more enjoyable and profitable,” said Settlemoir.

Racing College “students” will enjoy learning how to read a racing program, analyze information and increase their odds of winning at the track.

Classes for Handicapping 101, 102 and 103 run through the summer months, after which participants will receive their Racing College Diploma.

Handicapping 101 is free and open to the public and will be held at Vernon Downs on Saturday, March 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Pacer/Trotter room located off of the Hotel lobby. Tioga Downs will host their racing college from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in front of the stage in the main mutuel lobby.

Each guest will receive a free race program, food and refreshments.

To register for the free course at Vernon Downs, call the Hotel front desk at (315) 829-3400. To register at Tioga Downs call (888) 946-8464, ex: 7584.