by Stephen Donnelly, Dynamic Innovation Group

Vernon, NY — Central New York harness racing fans who won’t want to miss Kentucky Derby winner Nyquist’s pursuit of the second jewel of the Triple Crown will have to travel no further than Vernon Downs to watch a live simulcast of the 141st Preakness on May 21. Live racing at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore begins at 10:30 a.m., and the Preakness post time is set for 6:45 p.m.

Live local racing following the Preakness features the New York Sire Stakes for 3-year-old trotters and a handicapping contest which carries a $250 first prize. There is no charge to participate. This season, Vernon Downs will host live racing primarily Thursday through Saturday with a few Sunday and usual holiday Monday races planned. Several top-class stakes races make up the 2016 racing calendar.