by James Witherite, Tioga/Vernon Downs racing media

Nichols, NY — In conjunction with a United States Trotting Association initiative to boost purses for horses just beginning their racing careers, Tioga and Vernon Downs have elevated purses for select races, effective Friday (July 31).

Tioga Downs will increase purses for maiden, non-winners of two, and non-winners of five events by approximately 15 percent. Those races will now be contested for $4,800, $5,600, and $6,400, respectively (formerly $4,200, $4,800, and $5,500).

Likewise, Vernon Downs will boost purses for maiden, non-winners of three, and non-winners of five races by approximately 10 percent. Those races now will carry purses of $3,300, $4,000, and $5,600, respectively (formerly $3,000, $3,600, and $5,100).

For more information and current condition sheets, visit www.tiogadowns.com and www.vernondowns.com.