Nine of the top drivers in the sport of harness racing have been invited for the fourth annual $40,000 Drivers’ Championship, which is set for Sunday, August 1 at Tioga Downs.

The top seven money-winning drivers in North America have been invited, which includes Tim Tetrick, George Brennan, Jason Bartlett, Brian Sears, Ron Pierce, Dave Palone, and Yannick Gingras.

The top money winning driver at Tioga Downs in 2010 is Bruce Ranger, who will participate in his first Drivers’ Championship, and the 2010 Sponsors Exemption is Hall of Famer John Campbell, who will also be participating for the first time.

Sunday, August 1 will also mark the debut of the Jason Bartlett bobblehead, which will be given away (while supplies last) beginning at 12:00 p.m. on the trackside apron, along with a driver meet-and-greet and autograph session.

Tioga Downs would also like to remind horsemen that purses for the Drivers’ Championship races are increased by 20%, and horses finishing sixth through ninth will receive $100 for their participation in the 2010 Drivers’ Championship.

(With files from Tioga)