The Standardbred Owners Association of New York (SOANY) has announced it will conduct multiple bonus races this year.

Last year, the SOANY could only provide this benefit once because of the overpayment it had during the year. The 2023 bonuses will be paid out to all horses wholly owned, trained and driven by SOANY members similar to the amount paid in last April 30th’s 20 per cent bonus races. To be eligible, all participants of a horse in a designated bonus race card must be a SOANY member by Friday, Feb. 17. There will be no exceptions.

The bonus money will be paid separately and solely to the owners (whoever is listed first in the program) and will come directly from the SOANY’s funds. Current SOANY members needn’t do anything except to make sure that all owners, trainers and drivers of the horse that you have an ownership interest in are members by Feb. 17.

What does the SOANY do? The association negotiate contracts, meets monthly with MGM Yonkers, administers a retirement and welfare program and proactively represents all member interests in Albany, which today is of the utmost importance. The SOANY continues to work with MGM Yonkers regarding the facility and track condition, and will continue to work hard to protect the interests of all participants in racing at Yonkers. 

The three-year membership for $75 is a great deal, as the one-year membership is $35. The sulky maximum benefit remains at $4,500 and, since the drivers own their own race bikes, it remains an important protection for those talented individuals who race at Yonkers.

See Jimmy Marohn Sr. in the race paddock or apply online at soaofny.com/membership. You can also see if you are a member or not at soaofny.com/membership-list. 

(With files from Standardbred Owners Association of New York)