The big news on the grounds of Tioga Downs is that the new paddock, built over the winter by Chenango Builders, will be making its debut during the track's qualifying session scheduled for Friday

, April 20.

"Having the paddock adjacent to the barns will make the process of racing several horses on one card much easier for trainers on the grounds and those shipping in," Southern Tier Harness Horseman's Association (STHHA) President Guy Howard said via a release by Tioga.

The new paddock is located just off the track at the top of the stretch. It offers great convenience to horsemen, containing room for eight races and positioned next to the ship-in barn (Barn M).

To access the paddock, enter the barn area via the stable gate and pull into the unloading area near Barn M. There is a new area designated for trailer parking after the unloading.

Speaking about the cooperation between the STHHA and Tioga, operator Jeff Gural said, "When we asked the horsemen how we could improve the experience of racing at our track, the top response by a wide margin was to relocate the paddock. We made that a priority and with the help of the STHHA and the mild winter got it done in time for the 2012 season."

Paperwork necessary for entry to the Tioga barn area can be found here.

(With files from Tioga)