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

Yonkers, NY — Yonkers Raceway has announced an across-the-board purse increase, effective next Monday, March 30.

The increases range from $1,000 for the bottom claiming/conditioned class to $9,000 for the weekly Open Handicaps — trotters, pacers and distaff pacers. That trio shall now race for $40,000 each.

Of special note are a pair of restricted events for 2- and 3-year-olds (both gaits), with non-winners of two pari-mutuel races going for $10,000 and non-winners of four pari-mutuel races going for $12,000.

There are also additional claiming races just for 3- and 4-year-old pacers.

“We’re pleased to offer these enhanced purses, due to increased video lottery terminal revenue for both the state and our purse fund,” general manager Bob Galterio said. “We realize this is the time of year where horsemen have more choices of where to race. We want them to continue to choose us.”

Yonkers’ 2009 stakes season continues this weekend, with opening-round action in both the George Morton Levy Memorial Pacing Series and the new Blue Chip Matchmaker, along with Round 2 of the Petticoat and Sagamore Hill Pacing Series.

For more information, please contact the race office at (914) 457-2627.