Vernon Downs to begin live racing on Saturday, April 19

Vernon, NY – Vernon Downs is set to begin its 72^nd anniversary of harness racing on Saturday, April 19. Post time for Opening Night is 5:05p.m. and features a t-shirt giveaway after the third race.

As the only 7/8ths mile track in New York, Vernon Downs features exhilarating racing action and family friendly entertainment. In 2024, “Lightning” Leon Bailey cruised to the top of the driver standings with a career best 166 wins. Last year’s leading trainer was Jessica Okusko. Both will be returning to defend their titles.

On Saturday, May 3, Vernon Downs will simulcast the 151^st Kentucky Derby. Guests can participate in the $800 Win and Wager promotion and enjoy mint julep specials as the Kentucky Derby will appear on televisions around the facility.

Vernon Downs hosts a bevy of stakes races including eight New York Sire Stakes cards featuring the top trainers and drivers in the sport. On June 13, the 3-year-old filly trotters and 3-year-old trotting colts take center stage in the $500,000 Empire Breeders Classic. Then on July 3,

Vernon Downs once again plays host to the $500,000 Zweig Memorial which annually features the best Grand Circuit sophomore trotters on the road to the August 2 $1 million Hambletonian at The Meadowlands.

To close out the season’s stakes action, the inaugural New York Sire Stakes Big Apple for state-bred freshmen will offer $1 million in purses. Elimination races are set for Saturday, October 4 with a $250,000 final for each division of trotters and pacers on October 11.

Vernon Downs is proud to offer the best promotions in harness racing. Reoccurring giveaways include the popular Summer Sizzler, Meat Madness and Back to School gift cards. The Easy As 1-2-3 promotions features discounted food and drink specials. On July 3, a spectacular fireworks show will follow the races. “Corntasic weekend” will take place August 15-16 featuring free locally grown corn.

The always-popular Horse Play Car Giveaway starts May 9 and runs until October 18. For all upcoming promotions and promotions rules visit VernonDowns.com/racing.

Live racing takes place from April through November and entry to the track is free every race day. Individuals must be 18 years of age to wager on horses and participate in promotions/giveaways. For post time information, promotions information and full 2025 live racing calendar, visit www.vernondowns.com/racing.

by John Horne, for Vernon Downs