Dover Downs announced there will be a new format for major race days this meet with the top pace, the $30,000 Preferred, moving to Thursdays this season. On Tuesdays, the feature race will be a $23,000 Filly and Mare Open Pace. The week’s top event for diagonally gaited performers, a $23,000 Open Trot, is now set for Tuesdays as well.

Dover Downs first draw of the 2012-2013 season takes place this Monday, Oct. 29 for races on opening day, Sunday, Nov. 4. The Tuesday, Oct. 30 draw is for Monday, Nov. 5 racing.

During the first week only, Monday, Oct. 29 through Thursday, Nov. 1, the Race Office will be open from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. sharp.

For those seeking to qualify, horses must be dropped-in on Tuesday for Wednesday qualifying races. The first qualifying races are set for Oct. 31.

Starting, Sunday, Nov. 4, the Race Office will accept entries from 10 a.m. until 12 noon sharp. There are no exceptions.

The first Monday in November (Nov. 5), is the date to enter horses nominated to the $450,000 estimated Progress Pace and seven rich Matron Stakes. The last Matron event, the Matron Three-Year-Old Colt & Gelding Pace, takes place starting a week later, with entry day for the elims, Monday, Nov. 19 to be raced on Nov. 25.

On race days, the Race Office phone numbers are 302-857-3230 or 302-674-4600 ext. 3230. To fax, dial 302-741-8986.

Daily condition sheets are available on the track website: doverdowns.com

The November and December racing schedule is Sundays at 5:30 p.m. and weekdays, Mondays through Thursdays, post time at 4:30 p.m. During the first two month there is no live racing on Fridays and Saturdays.

Beginning with the New Year, another race day, Saturday, will be added to the weekly schedule for January and February with Saturday and Sunday post time for weekend racing at 1 p.m. There is no change weekdays, Monday through Thursday at 4:30 p.m.

Simulcasting of harness and thoroughbred racing and NFL three-game wagering is available daily from 12 noon until 12 midnight. There is no charge for parking and admission. Early reservations are suggested for the Winner’s Circle Restaurant and for those planning to stay at Dover Downs Hotel. Call 302-674-4600.

(Dover Downs)