The 40th season at Dover Downs gets off to a start on Sunday, October 26 to begin a six days a week schedule with 15 programs daily, continuing until April 9.
On opening day, fans at the track will receive a 4" x 7" four-color magnetic calendar.
One week later, the strong Dover Downs stakes program gets underway with Progress Pace and Matron Series elimination rounds with lucrative finals the following Sunday. The Delaware Standardbred Breeders Fund freshman stakes take place starting in late November.
An early season special takes place on "Pink Thursday," November 6 when the popular Mildred Williams International Women Driver Series showcases the top female drivers in North America in the series final. Named for Mildred Williams, the late woman-driving star, the series has drawn enthusiastic crowds and raised money for Breast Cancer research. The Pink Thursday festivities benefit the Delaware Breast Cancer Society.
Tony Morgan, the sport's leading driver this season and returning track champion and Tim Tetrick, second in this season's rankings and 2007 all-time one season record holder, lead one of the sport's most talented roster of horsemen. Josh Green seeks his fourth consecutive track training title.
Drivers, Ron Pierce, Brian Sears and Eric Goodell will join regulars Corey Callahan, Ross Wolfenden, Jim Morand, Brandon Givens, Eddie Davis Jr., Roger Plante, George Dennis, Vic Kirby and Jim King among popular returning veteran drivers. Vince Copeland, a former Michigan standout, and Tom Jackson, a noted Maryland and Pennsylvania driver are among newcomers this meet.
There is no charge for admission or parking. Reservations are suggested for the Winner's Circle Restaurant by phoning 302-764-4600. Horsemen desiring to stay overnight to watch their horses race should make reservations early at the 4-Star Dover Downs Hotel.
(With files from Dover Downs)