by Frank Drucker, publicity director, Empire City at Yonkers Raceway

Yonkers, NY — Yonkers Raceway’s 2012 leading driver, trainer and owner were honored Friday night, with plaques presented by the Standardbred Owners Association of New York.

Mike Lizzi photo

George Brennan is flanked by Yonkers racing secretary Steve Starr, SOA of NY president Joe Faraldo, executive director Alex Dadoyan and vice president John Brennan.

George Brennan was feted with for a season which saw him lead the locals in both wins (580) and purses (more than $8.8 million). Brennan, who repeated as Harness Tracks of America Driver of the Year, is currently third in wins on the Westchester hit parade behind Brian Sears and Matt Kakaley.

Last season’s trainers’ race resulted in a “split ticket,” with Gilberto Garcia-Herrera leading in wins (125) and Ron Burke leading the purse posse as both trainer and (as Burke Racing) owner (more than $3.8 million). Burke is again the leader in the early-season clubhouse through the first six racing weeks of 2013.