Many drivers and trainers will be in the holiday spirit of giving on Wednesday night, November 26, when racing resumes at Batavia Downs.
At the suggestion of driver Troy Boring, several of the track's top drivers and trainers and will donate their earnings on Wednesday to the annual holiday toy fund-raiser.
“It’s something we really want to do this holiday season,” Boring said.
When the racing season ends on December 6, the drivers then will play Santa Claus and deliver the toys to hospitals in Western New York. This will be the third year in a row the Downs reinsmen have delivered toys to hospitals.
“I know how kids feel around Christmas time of year," said Kevin Cummings, a father of four. "It’s important we put a smile on their face."
The holiday toy drive is nothing new to Keith Kash, Jr., who migrated to the 'Downs' from Northfield Park in Ohio.
“I do this every year in Cleveland,” Kash said. “I’m always looking to give back to the kids.”
One of the stops will be Buffalo’s Women and Children’s Hospital. The trip will have special meaning for Jim McNeight.
“They saved my eight-month old son’s life,” McNeight said, thinking back to 1996 when the hospital performed major surgery on young Jimmy.
Racing fans wanting to donate a new unwrapped toy can simply drop them off at Players Club, located on the second floor of Batavia Downs, from November 26 until December 6 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.
(Batavia Downs)