by Michael Sweeney, for Scarborough Downs

Scarborough, ME — Scarborough’s marquee event, the Joseph Ricci Memorial Trotting Series, is set to get underway next month with $10,000 elimination legs scheduled for August 2 and 9, all leading up to the rich $50,000 final to be raced on Saturday, August 15.

“This is the second year that the Ricci has been run in this series format and the response has been encouraging,” said Scarborough Race Secretary Joe Figliulo. “Last year we carded a total of five elimination legs which resulted in a final which contained perhaps the finest field of horses ever assembled in Maine. We’re looking to build on last year’s success.”

The format and Scarborough’s seaside setting provide the ideal combination for summertime harness fun.

“Maine in August is just about as good as it gets,” said Scarborough spokeswoman Susan Higgins. “Scenic beaches, lobster dinners and now a world class trotting series make Scarborough Downs the ultimate destination this summer.”

There are no nomination fees to enter the Ricci Memorial Series and the entry box for the first round of eliminations closes on Thursday, July 30, at 9:00 a.m. (EDT). Entries may be phoned in by calling the Scarborough race office at (207) 883-9521.

Scarborough Downs proudly features live harness racing every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening at 4:30 p.m. (EDT). The popular Sunday matinees feature a 1:30 p.m. post time.