Although the United States will celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, January 19 his actual birthday is January 15 and Monticello Raceway’s 9th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Pace is slated to go to post on that date; Thursday, January 15, 2009.

In what has become an anxiously awaited event this race features the talents of African-American drivers.

Initially reticent to showcase this event the results have been a win-win situation; not only for the raceway but for the African-American community.

“It is once again our pleasure to honour the memory of the great civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” said Eric Warner, the Raceway's Director of Racing. “Last year we had a very competitive event and the competition was enjoyed by all the participants.”

Although the award winning trainer, and sometimes driver, George Teague, Jr. was featured in last year's Dr. King Pace it was Dennis Watson who took home the trophy when he reined Bjs Jetstream to a 2:00 victory. Bobby (Boonie) Williams, Jr. finished second with Viagara Falls and George Polk, Jr. finishing third with Half Life.

Cedric Washington, a two-time Dr. King Pace winner; his father, General (Bubba) Washington, Jr.; also a previous Dr. King Pace winner, and Bobby “Boonie” Williams, Jr. are the only African-American drivers currently competing at the Mighty M and in order to present the event Warner will need at least eight to have a full field for betting purposes.

“I’ve already heard from Dennis Watson who says he’ll be back to defend his crown and from Donald Simmonds, who won the race two years ago. And I’ve recently had a call from King Solomon who says he would like to compete this year,” Warner added.

Any African-American driver interested in competing in this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Pace is urged to contact Warner in the race office at Monticello Raceway by calling 845-794-4100 x 557. Or they can call the track's publicity office at ext. 455.

(Monticello)