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

Yonkers, NY — The third rendition of Yonkers Raceway’s “Matinee Madness” went postward during a downright balmy (mid-50s) pre-Thanksgiving Sunday.

The 12-race card again began with five French-centric, overstuffed, 1-1/4 mile trotting fields. A dozen were behind the gate for the opener (post time 11:12 a.m.), with favored Itzaziam (Brian Sears, $5.70) winning that event in 2:27.3 for the added distance.

Mayra Escamilla photo

Dancehall Mistress won the Open Handicap for driver Brian Sears.

Included in the extra-distance extravaganza was the $46,000 Open Handicap, the 10-trotter test won by a backside-busting Dancehall Mistress (Sears, $25.60) in 2:26.1.

The Sunday overseas numbers continue strong, with more than 1.2 million Euros (more than $1.5 million) wagered during the five exported events. The first three matinees have seen a total of more than four million Euros (or more than $5 million) wagered for 15 races by the French-hubbed audience (including Switzerland, Belgium, Spanish Basque community, Germany, Austria, Luxemburg, Holland, Estonia and Malta).

Sunday’s Pick-5, buoyed by a double carryover of more than $7,000, attracted $16,710 of fresh money. The winning combination of 4/4/4/1/2 paid $3,924.75 for every four bits.

The Raceway’s five program per week live schedule continues through Dec. 14, with first post every Monday, Thursday (save for Thanksgiving night), Friday and Saturday at 7:10 p.m., and the fourth of six Sunday matinees (replacing Tuesday evenings) next weekend at 11 a.m. Evening simulcasting accompanies all night programs, with afternoon simulcasting available daily (including Thanksgiving Day).