Lebanon, OH -The harness racing tradition in Lebanon, Ohio continues at Miami Valley Raceway beginning January 6th as the highest purse pool in the tracks history along with the National Drivers Championship usher in Miami Valley's Winter Festival of Racing. OHHA representative Brett Merkle comments, "the horsemen are thrilled to see a fourth consecutive purse increase at Miami Valley. We are very encouraged by the efforts Miami Valley puts forth to showcase a first class product through the winter months."
Afternoon matinees present every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday first race post at 2:05pm; with Friday and Saturday evening cards beginning at 6:05pm. A deep and talented driver's colony will compete throughout the winter season at Miami Valley, with all the top drivers from last season expected to return. A variety of series and special events during the Winter Festival will surely appeal to harness racing fans at every level.
January– $25,000 National Drivers Championship (Jan 8th, 9th, 10th ) $700k Claim to Fame Series
February– $400,000 Elite and Classic Survivor Series
March– $600,000 Legends Series
Race Secretary Gregg Kiedel remarks, "the race office team works very hard to write the most competitive full fields and lucrative betting opportunities. Presenting the meet in Winter and Spring segments will add clarity to the type of racing offered at the beginning and end of the meet."
Wagering opportunities include early and late doubles, a 50-cent Lucky Pick 5 (with an industry low 12% takeout) beginning on race eight and a 10-cent Buckeye Hi-5 on the twelfth. Carry over provisions apply to both wagers until a winning ticket is sold.
Helen Carlo, MVG's Racing Operations Manager comments, "our fourth consecutive year of purse increases continues to be driven by the success of VLT revenues."
Stay tuned to Grand Circuit and Ohio Sire Stakes action during Miami Valley's upcoming Spring Festival of Racing in April and May…….
From the Miami Valley Media Department