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

Yonkers, NY — Somebeachsomewhere, the richest pacer of 2008 and the fastest 3-year-old in harness history, is readying for Yonkers Raceway and the 53rd Messenger Stakes, according to trainer Brent MacGrath.

“(Yonkers) has been on our radar all along, and we’re coming,” MacGrath said Monday from Ontario. “He returned (from Lexington) in very good shape, and we’re looking forward to the Messenger.”

For the season, The Beach has won 11 of his dozen races (with that one second in the final of the Meadowlands Pace) and $1,750,003. His 1:46.4 blowout in a division of the Bluegrass at the Red Mile nine days ago tied Holborn Hanover’s all-age race record. Somebeachsomewhere was a 1:47.4 winner in his division of Lexington’s Tattersalls this past Saturday.

Eliminations — if necessary — for the $625,000 (est.) Messenger are scheduled for Saturday night, October 18, with the final set for Saturday night, October 25. The entry box closes a week from Tuesday, October 14, at 4:00 p.m. (EDT).

The companion event, the $350,000 (est.) Lady Maud for soph pacing fillies, offers elims (if necessary) Friday night, October 17, with the final Saturday, October 25.