The race for Hambletonian eligible 3-year-old trotting colts previously called the "Townsend Ackerman" will now be known as the "Dennis Drazin". Mr. Drazin, an attorney by trade, is a longtime Thoroughbred owner and breeder who has served as President of the New Jersey Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association and the chairman of the New Jersey Racing Commission. He resigned the Commission post to become Chairman and CEO of Darby Development LLC, operators of Monmouth Park, a position he has held since 2012.
Mr. Drazin was the driving force behind Monmouth Park's decision to fight in court to bring sports betting to New Jersey and the resulting legislation. That dream was finally realized when the US Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act and Governor Murphy signed it into law earlier this year.
Mr. Drazin graciously reflected on the tribute, "I am both humbled and honored to be acknowledged for my accomplishments by Jeff Gural and the Meadowlands team by naming their prestigious race the Dennis Drazin. Jeff always promised during 6 years of litigation that if we were successful in winning the Sports Betting litigation that he would name a Grade 1 Stake in my honor. I am proud to accept this wonderful distinction from a leader in the industry and my peers."