Horses will not be the only animals racing down the famed stretch of the Meadowlands Racetrack this Friday night – ostriches and camels will compete as part of the track’s annual event that regularly draws 10,000 fans to the East Rutherford facility.

This is the sixth year the unique brand of racing has been staged with crowds growing each year to catch a glimpse of the exotic animals.

“We have a beautiful facility here and we are always looking to hold events that bring as many people to the racetrack as we can get,” said Meadowlands GM/COO Jason Settlemoir. “This is a wonderful family-friendly event. Where else around here can you see camels and ostriches!”

The animals come from Kansas courtesy of Hedrick Promotions. Joe Hedrick and his crew travel throughout the country to dozens of racetracks, fairs and other events with the magnificent creatures.

The ostrich race will be held following the third horse race at approximately 8:15 p.m. and the camel race will be held after the eighth horse race at approximately 10:15 p.m.

Admission and general parking are free at the racetrack. Children and families are encouraged to attend, but only those 18 years and over may place a wager. However, no wagering is allowed on the camel and ostrich races.

Following their appearance at the Meadowlands on Friday night, the camels and ostriches will head to Upstate New York to Vernon Downs on Saturday night and Tioga Downs on Sunday afternoon.

For more information, visit www.playmeadowlands.com.

(Meadowlands)