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

Yonkers, NY — Yonkers Raceway is the backdrop for the latest installment of The French Connection.

The Raceway has received approval from the New York State Gaming Commission to conduct a half-dozen Sunday matinee cards — from Nov. 9 through Dec. 14, inclusive — as part of a new wagering relationship with the French pari-mutuel agencies. The races are to be televised and wagered on through much of Europe.

First post of these trotting-dominated programs is scheduled for 11 a.m. (ET), with more information regarding field sizes and race distances as it becomes available. Please be advised that these six Sunday cards replace five Tuesday evenings (Nov. 11 through Dec. 9, inclusive) on the Raceway’s live schedule.

“We think this endeavor could lead to more international simulcasting in the future, which would be extremely beneficial to racing throughout New York State,” Raceway Chief Operating Officer Bob Galterio said. “We appreciate the cooperation of the Gaming Commission, the Standardbred Owners Association of New York and our racing friends across the Atlantic.

“It’s a new experiment for us, and we’re anxious to see how it works out.”

Until that schedule change, the Raceway’s five night per week live docket continues, with first post every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:10 p.m. Evening simulcasting accompanies all live programs, with afternoon simulcasting available daily.