The stables at Pocono Downs have come alive upon the arrival of horsemen and horses in preparation for the 2009 harness racing season.

Ken Kolanich, paddock superintendent, noted that the backside at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs opened its gates Monday morning (March 2). He said more than 40 horses have already been shipped to the Northeastern Pennsylvania racetrack.

Among the first-arriving stables included those of Earl Bucky Angle, Joe Antonelli, Jodi Bendick, Joe and Tony Laterza, Bruce Lundstrom, Mickey Peterson and Robert Reynolds.

Kolanich said horses would continue to arrive at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs over the next several weeks, as the backside population swells into the hundreds.

Pocono Downs will be offering both night and afternoon live harness racing during the 2009 meet that will open Wednesday night, April 1, with a post of 6:30. Evening racing will be taking place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday nights at 6:30 with the Saturday afternoon posts of 1:00 p.m. all throughout the 135-day meet that will conclude November 21.

A new multi-million paddock, climate controlled, will be ready for opening day. Last year’s meet was shortened to 95-days in order to make room for the demolition and construction of new paddock.

(Pocono)