Fog brings an early end to Big M season

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Due to thick fog that covered the northern Bergen County area, The Meadowlands was forced to cancel harness racing Saturday night (Dec. 31) after contesting one dash on what was scheduled to be a 14-race card.

“As disappointing as it is to have to cancel on what was going to be a big night,” said track Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Jason Settlemoir. “The safety of the drivers and the equine athletes comes first. The lack of visibility was just too great for us to race once we saw how the conditions refused to improve. We would like to thank all of our employees, horsemen and fans for making 2022 such a success and wish them health and happiness in 2023.”

BIG YEAR, BIG MONEY: There were 85 programs contested at The Meadowlands during 2022, on which a total of $233,874,687 was wagered for an average nightly handle of $2,751,466, by far tops in the sport.

A LITTLE MORE: Dexter Dunn, who is about to collect his fourth consecutive Dan Patch Driver of the Year Award, was the top driver at the Big M Fall Meeting with 37 wins. … Ron Burke topped the trainer standings with 22 victories. … Racing resumes Friday at 6:20 p.m.

For race results, click here.

by Dave Little, for The Meadowlands