Jeff Gural's three tracks have entered into a agreement with Sumotext to offer instant updates on race office information through mass text messaging.
The intended use is to get time sensitive information on upcoming deadlines, overnights and stakes into the hands of trainers and perhaps most interestingly, make them aware of what classes are short on entries for the day's draw.
As an example, if the 3YO NW 2PM or $25,000 life has only six entrants and may be discarded, the racing office will be able to send a text blast that will reach all horsemen subscribed to the service with that information. A trainer with a horse that fits the class may then call the office and enter the horse to help fill the race.
The race offices will also be able to reach horsemen at a moment's notice with any pertinent information, such as postponements or cancellations. Though the impetus for the service is racing, the uses are limitless and may well be applied to other facets in time.
Subscribing to the service is quite simple. You may follow this link and fill in the required fields, then respond positively to a confirmation return text; that's it. You will then receive all text messages generated by the race offices at all three tracks. There will not be a respond by text option.
There is no charge to subscribers from the tracks or Sumotext for this service. Standard message and data rates charged by your carrier may apply.
(With files from the Meadowlands Racetrack, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs)