The harness racing tradition in Lebanon, Ohio will continue at Miami Valley Raceway beginning January 6, as the highest purse pool in the track’s history along with the National Drivers Championship will usher in Miami Valley’s Winter Festival of Racing.
“The horsemen are thrilled to see a fourth consecutive purse increase at Miami Valley,” said OHHA representative Brett Merkle. “We are very encouraged by the efforts Miami Valley puts forth to showcase a first class product through the winter months.”
Afternoon matinees will take place every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday (first-race post at 2:05 p.m.), while Friday and Saturday evening cards will begin at 6:05 p.m. A deep and talented driving colony will compete throughout the winter season at Miami Valley, with all the top drivers from last season expected to return. A variety of series and special events during the Winter Festival will surely appeal to harness racing fans at every level.
January
$25,000 National Drivers Championship (Jan 8, 9, 10)
$700K Claim to Fame Series
February
$400,000 Elite and Classic Survivor Series
March
$600,000 Legends Series
“The race office team works very hard to write the most competitive full fields and lucrative betting opportunities,” said race secretary Gregg Kiedel. “Presenting the meet in winter and spring segments will add clarity to the type of racing offered at the beginning and end of the meet.”
Wagering opportunities include early and late doubles, a 50-cent Lucky Pick 5 (with an industry low 12% takeout) beginning on Race 8 and a 10-cent Buckeye Hi-5 on the twelfth. Carryover provisions apply to both wagers until a winning ticket is sold.
“Our fourth consecutive year of purse increases continues to be driven by the success of VLT revenues,” commented Helen Carlo, MVG's racing operations manager.
Stay tuned for Grand Circuit and Ohio Sire Stakes action during Miami Valley’s upcoming Spring Festival of Racing in April and May.
(Miami Valley)