The Meadows Standardbred Owners Association (MSOA) gave one family’s summer a new twist, when they became honourary owners for the week of a horse in the Tim Twaddle Stable.

Emily Tracanna of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania was making her first visit to the track last Saturday night, thanks to the MSOA’s Family Fun Night.

“We heard about family night from friends and wanted to bring the kids, and we started making bets and had a great time,” she said. “It was our first time here.”

Tracanna then heard her name called as the winner of the MSOA’s first "Owner For A Week" contest, which gave her a stake in a trotter named Herecomesthenight for one week. She received daily updates from trainer Tim Twaddle, got a chance to bring her family behind the scenes to the barn area during the week, to the paddock on race night, and share in a stake of whatever purse money the horse would win.

Herecomesthenight did manage to pick up a cheque, finishing fifth. While it didn’t turn out to be a huge payday for Tracanna, the experience was priceless.

“We came with gifts of apples and carrots, and fed him, and gave everyone in the barn lots of love and pets,” said Tracanna.

The MSOA’s "Owner For A Week" contest continues tonight with a new drawing, which will take place in the winner's circle after the fourth race at The Meadows.

The MSOA will also host its second annual Legislative Race tonight. The five-eighths mile dash “match race” will feature the defending champion as Pennsylvania State Senator Tim Solobay (46th District) will face a field of three challengers from the PA House of Representatives, Brandon Neuman (48th District), Pam Snyder (50th District), and Harry Readshaw (36th District).

(MSOA)