Buffalo Raceway is putting together the final touches in preparation for the start of its 2026 live harness racing season on Wednesday, March 4.
The campaign will have a Wednesday and Saturday slate with Fridays added beginning in April. The season will conclude with the lone Sunday afternoon program set for July 19. All post times throughout the 57-day meet will be at 2:30 p.m.
"We are anticipating a good season," said an optimistic Jon Cramer, Buffalo Raceway General Manager. "The barn area is full and we are offering over $100,000 [USD] in daily purses, including the Opens, which will go for $15,500 [USD]. That should lead to some good racing."
A new feature on the track in 2026 will be the April Reins Claiming Series, starting on Friday, April 10. The series begins with a claiming price of $7,500 USD and increases $1,500 USD each week. The horses will be vying for $12,500 USD with the top eight point-earners in the three legs returning on Friday, May 1 for the $30,000 USD finals.
The travelling New York Sire Stakes will arrive at Buffalo Raceway on Wednesday, June 3 with the hard-hitting three-year-old colt and gelding pacers taking the initial spotlight. The two-year-old filly trotters will close out the series on Wednesday, July 15. The Excelsior Series will also be contested on all Sire Stakes dates.
Fans in attendance on opening day will receive free racing programs.
The ever popular 'Lucky Exacta' contest will return on Saturday, March 7. Fans will receive a magnetic live racing schedule, which will include a 'lucky' exacta combination. Should that exacta come in on selected races, winners will spin the wheel for wagers on the last race of the day.
Drew Monti is looking to defend his driving title after posting 119 victories last season and collecting almost $960,000 USD in purse earnings. Trainer Sam Smith will be back and looking to extend his title streak to three seasons. Chris Petrelli and David Russo, who finished in second and third respectively, are will be chasing the crown.
Buffalo Raceway is offering party packages throughout the year for groups of 25 or more. For information, call 716-649-1280 ext. 6200.
(With files from Buffalo Raceway)