On July 15, 1965, the $7 million Pocono Downs opened its doors in Northeast Pennsylvania. Thousands of fans were on hand as Satin Queen was the first to cross the finish line on that sultry summer night.
Fifty years later, 42 tracks have come and gone, but Pocono Downs, now renamed The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono, continues to host world-record racing from March to November each year. From August 15-22, the track will honour the past and look ahead to the future with a week of events for the fans to celebrate and honour the rich history and tremendous racing.
A week-long celebration kicks off on Saturday, August 15 with the world-renowned Budweiser Clydesdales making an appearance, and fans may have their photo taken from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the track apron. A wristband is necessary, and will be distributed at 4 p.m. on the Sky Bridge The photo is $5, and all proceeds will be donated to Marley’s Mission, a charity that provides equine-based therapy free of charge to children and their families who have experienced trauma. The Budweiser Clydesdales hitch will promenade on the track during live racing Saturday night, as well as the night before.
On Tuesday, August 18 and Wednesday, August 19, fans can enjoy live racing and Pocono is 'rolling back the prices' to 1965 on soft drinks, hot dogs, popcorn, and soft drinks.
The weekend will be full of exciting events, with a special post time of 5:30 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday nights. On Friday, August 21, the night will kick off with a special 'legends race,' featuring drivers from the past 50 years competing in a thrilling race. Immediately following the races, fans can enjoy a special 'Tribute to Motown' free concert featuring The Fellas and Encorz, two tremendous groups who will be performing on the track apron.
(Pocono Downs)