by Michael Sweeney, for Scarborough Downs

Scarborough, ME — The curtain will fall on the 2017 harness racing season at Scarborough Downs with the final two performances of the year slated for Saturday (Dec. 9) and Sunday (Dec. 10) this weekend, but before the horses retire to the comfort of their winter stables, the members of the Maine Amateur Drivers’ Club (MADC) will make one more charitable splash at the raceway on Saturday.

The MADC hold races on a weekly basis at Scarborough Downs and bankroll their driving commissions in a fund dedicated to philanthropic donations. With the Christmas season fast approaching, the members of the MADC felt that Toys for Tots would be the logical beneficiary for their final 2017 disbursement of funds.

“Toys for Tots and the United States Marine Corps have a long history of bringing holiday cheer to children all across the United States and have been extremely active for years here in the state of Maine” said MADC president, Omer Burke, “The members of our club are delighted to be able to contribute $1,750 toward helping their organization ensure that less fortunate children in the community experience a happy Christmas.”

Major Thomas R. Wallin, Company A, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines will be at the Downs to accept the donation following the third race of Saturday’s program. Major Wallin is the senior ranking active duty officer in the state of Maine.

Scarborough Downs will proudly feature live harness racing on Saturday and Sunday at 12:15 p.m. during closing weekend. The 2018 harness racing season is scheduled to commence on March 24.

For more information, visit www.ScarboroughDowns.com or visit our Facebook page.