Tioga and Vernon Downs have announced the addition of the John Simpson Memorial Stakes to their 2010 Stakes schedule. The Simpson Stakes, named for

legendary trainer John Simpson, are filled with rich harness racing tradition.

“I’m happy to see the races held at Tioga and Vernon, especially Vernon, my father (John Simpson) based his Grand Circuit stable at Vernon for many years and we’ve always held a soft spot in our heart for Vernon," said James Simpson, president & CEO of Hanover Shoe Farms, the current owner of the Simpson Stakes. "I am also impressed by the way Tioga and Vernon market the racing product as well; they (Tioga and Vernon) will be a great place to continue on the Simpson tradition.”

“It’s an honour to have the historic Simpson races at Tioga and Vernon," said Jason Settlemoir, VP of racing and simulcast for Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs. "We will continue to honor the Simpson legacy at both our tracks by playing host to these tradition filled races.”

The Simpson Stakes, for two and three-year old pacers and trotters, will be split up among the two tracks. The three-year old trotters will race at Vernon Downs on Saturday, May 22 followed by the three-year old pacers a day later, Sunday, May 23 at Tioga Downs. All two-year olds will race at Vernon Downs on Thursday, October 7 and Friday, October 8.

Vernon Downs’ 90-day meet will kick off Friday, April 16 at 6:55 p.m. Tioga Downs will open its 57-day meet on Saturday, May 1 at 6:50 p.m. (both pending regulatory approval).

(Tioga/Vernon)