The nominations are in for the 2018 Meadowlands Grand Circuit Stakes, and the February payment totals are up by nine per cent over the 2017 numbers.
The major pacing stakes, WR Haughton and Sam McKee Memorials, swelled by nearly 30 per cent with the connections of 33 horses making the nomination payment for both. The Stanley Dancer for sophomore colt trotters and Mistletoe Shalee also increased by a third.
All of the freshman stakes saw solid increases in totals for the new season.
"It's an encouraging sign to see the owners and trainers show support for Meadowlands stakes," said Meadowlands President & CEO Jeff Gural. "Out of competition testing will be expanded this year as part of our efforts to provide a level playing field at the Meadowlands."
Also of note, all three spring late closers for older horses, the Whata Baron, Burning Point and Shiaway St Pat, have filled and will begin the first week of April.
Complete lists on the nominees are now available on the Meadowlands website.
Questions should be directed to Peter Koch in the race office at 201-842-5130.
(Meadowlands Racetrack)