It seems that nearly every year young talent passes through Monticello Raceway. Of course, many racetracks can make that claim, but since its inception the ‘Mighty M’ has been a stepping stone into the metropolitan New York-area racetracks.

In recent years, Jordan Stratton dazzled at Monticello when he became the youngest driver ever to win a dash title – he is now among the leaders at Monticello. Jim Marohn Jr. the Mighty M’s leading driver last season, showed his mettle when he beat all the ‘big boys’ in a driving championship at Vernon and Tioga Downs. And for young Jim, the move to the ‘big time’ won’t be far away.

Furthermore, Bruce Aldrich Jr., who won more races at Monticello in the first decade of the 21st Century than any other reinsman is driving this season at both Monticello and Saratoga Raceways – and he’s having a banner year.

Now, newcomer Jason Ryan is starting off like gangbusters. On Tuesday, October 8 at Monticello, the 25-year-old Canadian driver won three races. Ryan has opened the railbirds’ eyes since arriving on the scene.

In 21 starts thus far at Monticello, Ryan has recorded nine wins, one second-place finish and two thirds.

He won the second race Tuesday with Threestepstoheaven ($3.60) in 1:56.4 and then won the fourth race with UFDragons Rocket ($3.30), also in 1:56.4. Ryan’s third win came with Big Bay Point ($3.50), who stopped the clock in 1:54.4 in his dash.

Monticello’s publicity department asked Ryan what his current plans are, and he stated, “I’m doing good here and I plan on staying all winter.”

Monticello Dark On Columbus Day (Monday Oct. 14)

There will be no live racing at Monticello Raceway on Columbus Day, Monday, October 14. There will, however, be simulcast wagering available both day and night.

After that date, live racing will continue on the regular schedule of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout the rest of the month. And simulcast wagering will continue daily.

(With files from Monticello)