by Carol Hodes, for the SBOA of New Jersey

Manalapan, NJ — Freehold horsemen have something to be thankful for this week — a purse increase.

The purse increase going into effect at Freehold Raceway on Friday is the end product of negotiations between the Standardbred Breeders & Owners Association of New Jersey and the Office of the Governor.

“We want to thank Governor Chris Christie and his staff for working with us to reach the agreement that released Purse Enhancement Agreement funds to benefit Freehold Raceway this year,” said SBOANJ president Tom Luchento.

The PEA dollars came through the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority, which recently received and dispersed the funds. Effective Nov. 25, the purses at Freehold will be increased 30 percent for a daily distribution of $40,000.

“This will be a much needed boost to our horsemen who race at Freehold,” said Luchento. “We will continue to work with state officials to find ways to enhance purses in 2012.”