6/29 - Not to be outdone, the hottest trotter in the state, KEROGEN, tied the all age track record at Bangor Raceway Friday night, going in 1:58.3 for driver Kim Ireland, owner Lew Hayden and trainer Wendy Ireland. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick.

6/29 - RIPOGENUS set a new track record for four year old geldings at Bangor Raceway Friday night going the mile in 1:56.2 for owners Robert and Kyle Gibbs. RIPOGENUS was driven by Shawn Gray and is trained by Kyle Gibbs

6/25 - Scarborough Downs would like horsemen to make stake payments in the racing office instead of the paddock office. This is a change from last year. Please be aware of this as stakes start this Saturday!

6/23 - Bernard Charlton's YANKEE ANTHEM set a new track record for aged mares at Bangor Raceway, going the mile in 1:55.3 with Drew Campbell in the bike. The mile also tied the state record for aged mares.

6/21 - Bangor Raceway will hold the next leg of the Maine Amateur Driving Club on Thursday, June 28. Post Time is at 7:00 pm. The first leg of the Maine vs. Mass competition will be held at Plainridge Racecourse on Monday July 9. There will be a lower class trot available and any horse not receiving a purse check will receive $50 trucking money. Those drivers interested please contact Buddy Burke to make arrangements.

6/17 - ABBY C rewrote the record books today at Bangor Raceway cruising to a 7¼ length victory in 1:58.3 setting an all age trotting track record. Conditioned by Shawn Nye, the 6 year old mare is owned by John Brophy and was driven by Joey Mosher. The old mark was owned by STARS PHOTO in 1:58.4 set in 2004. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

6/10 - Quite an interesting weekend in Maine Harness Racing. In no particular order -
(1) KEYSTONE DALLAS sets a new track record at Scarborough Downs for a four year old trotting gelding in 2:00.2 with Jason Bartlett in the bike for trainer Randy Bickmore and owner William Kopack. The old standard was held by STARS PHOTO in 2:01.1 set in 2001
(2) Bangor Raceway 's Sunday program was the first to have all races go under two minutes. There have been other programs (especially Windsor) to have more races under 2:00 but not all races.
(3)KEROGEN set the fastest trot of this year in 1:58.4 at Scarborough Downs in Sundays Feature trot for driver Kim Ireland, trainer Wendy Ireland and owner Lew Hayden
(4) CAMS KNIGHT DREAM scorched the Bangor oval Friday night in 1:55.0 for the fastest pace of the year for Jason Bartlett, trainer Joe Nelson and owners Scott Dillon and Scott Pushard. It was the third fastest mile in the history of Bangor Raceway

6/8 - Please note that Scarborough Downs has changed the post time for Monday's Learn and Earns has been pushed up to 2:00 pm due to six divisions being declared. Bangor's Learn and Earns have been scheduled for Thursday at 6:00 pm

6/8 - Bangor Raceway has implemented mandatory use of protective vests for all drivers starting June 15, 2007

5/24 - Jason Bartlett made his presence known Thursday night at Bangor Raceway when he won eight races on the eleven race card. Last year Jason captured eight wins on a day, but it was from both Bangor and Scarborough

5/23- Penn National tonight presented its plan for the Bangor Raceway barn area to the City of Bangor Committee of Economic Development. The overall plan is in five phases over four years starting in 2008.
The plan is for (1) a new race paddock replacing the old open paddock, (2) Barns A, B, & D removed and graded for parking (3) Barn C and the blacksmith shop removed and replaced with a new barn (4) Barn E removed and replaced with a new barn and (5) Barn F removed for a small maintenance building.
After hearing approvals from the MHHA and the public, the committee voted to accept the proposal and send it forward to the full City Council, where they will discuss in a future meeting.

5/20 - Robert Dinning Released from Hospital

5/19 - Accidents Mar Matinee at Scarborough Downs

5/18 - Congratulations to Jason Bartlett for accomplishing his 1500th career driving win, Friday night at Bangor Raceway behind LADY WATERFORD in the night's ninth race. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

5/15 - The agenda for the May 30 Maine Harness Racing Commission is posted here.
5/14 - All major news outlets are reporting tonight that the Joint Standing Committee on Appropriation and Financial Affairs voted late today to set aside all discussions seeking a bigger state share of racino revenues to help balance the Maine state budget. Penn National has, at this time, made no formal statement concerning future plans. The question remains if Penn National will feel comfortable working with the State of Maine and are timid about construction with the future ability of the state to revisit this issue.

On that end, there will still be a rally on Friday, May 18th at 6:00 pm at Winners OTB to unite pari-mutuel tellers, agricultural fair members, OTB employees, committee members, harness racing board members, promotion board members, Maine breeders, horseman, drivers, trainers and owners on this cause. Winners OTB is located at Route One at Cooks Corner in Brunswick. The rally will be held in the Kings Room

5/8 - SHADY SABRINA, a five year old mare owned by Lorna Cohen and trained and driven by Kevin Switzer set a new track record at Scarborough Downs Tuesday for aged mares in 1:56.1. The old mark was held by JOSIE VENTURE in 2003 at 1:56.3

5/7 - The MHHA and MSBOA have organized a truck and trailer rally for Wednesday, May 9 to show our opposition to the impending changes to LD499. Details of the rally can be seen here. It is imperative that any horsemen that can attend this rally be present. The changes that the legislature is reviewing is far reaching in terms of who it affects (Penn National, Scarborough Downs, Horsemen's Purse Accounts, Sire Stakes Purse Accounts) and the time frame it is affecting (limits of purse account increases without bearing on slot revenues).

The Joint Standing Committee on Appropriation and Financial Affairs is in charge of reviewing the Biennial Budget that is responsible for the $120 Million shortfall the State of Maine is looking at. The members of this committee can also be called or e-mailed including your local members of the legislature. We have listed out the members of this committee here. Please contact them in whatever way you can. The more emails or phone calls will strengthen our cause to leave the law as it stands today.

5/4 - In an effort to balance the state budget, lawmakers are looking at the harness racing industry in the forms of either more taxes or limiting growth. There are several proposals floating around the hall of the State House that will affect the horsemen's purse accounts, the sire stakes program, Scarborough Downs and Penn National. There is the potential of SERIOUS implications facing our industry if we do not stand up and tell our legislators that we strictly OPPOSE any changes to the law that was just set up LAST YEAR concerning the slots revenues. Here is a link to a story that ran in the Bangor Daily News on Friday 5/4.

5/2 - The Bangor City Council has scheduled a public meeting on May 23 at 5:00 pm concerning the future of the barns at Bangor Raceway. All concerned horsemen should plan on attending this meeting. The meeting will be held at Bangor City Hall. We will have more information as May 23 approaches.

4/29 - Congratulations to Greg Bowden who captured his 3000th win today at Bangor Raceway driving TONROS PRINCE A for owner/trainer Albert Smith. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

4/25 - The Maine Amateur Driving Club is looking at next weekend (May 6th or 7th) as the start of their season. All interested and eligible drivers are reminded that the application and dues need to be submitted before they can participate. The Scarborough racing office is looking at $2500-$3000 claimers and NW $1500 last 5 starts. Any questions please contact Buddy Burke

4/23 - Maritime Bred is Super in Scarborough Open

4/22 - Kerogen By A Nose In Scarborough's Trot Feature

4/16 - Scarborough Cancels Tuesday Racing

4/12 - Last month the MHHA Board met with Penn representatives to discuss their future plans for the Bass Park facility. As many of you now know, they intend to tear down four barns this year because they are in disrepair. The board will support Bangor horsemen and is actively pursuing alternatives with Penn and the city. Despite what you may have heard, this is not a "done deal". We plan to meet again with Penn and also to attend a City Council meeting to speak on behalf of the horsemen The Board encourages you to contact us with your concerns so that we may coordinate our efforts to protect Bangor horsemen and live Harness Racing.
Mike Hitchcock
Tim Powers
Denise McNitt

Webmaster's Note - As soon as we receive a date for the Bangor City Council meeting concerning this issue, we will post it so as many horsemen as possible can attend.

4/11 - Opening Day At Scarborough Downs

4/6 - Senior Citizens Prep at Scarborough Downs

4/4 - The Racing Commission meeting scheduled for Friday has been postponed due to expected inclement weather. It will be rescheduled.

4/1 - Every day during the month of April we will post the winners of the MHHA Scholarship Drawing. The winners will be posted on a daily basis.

3/31 - Off & Racing at Scarborough Downs

3/30 - Morning Events Slated at Scarborough Downs

3/23 - Scarborough Downs Schedules Qualifers

3/22 - ME Harness Racing Commission Agenda for April 5.

3/20 - New Race Paddock, No Barns in Bangor Raceway's Future

3/16 - Michael Sweeney Joins The Scarborough Downs Team

3/15 - In an effort to help the racing offices at Bangor and Scarborough, the MHHA is requesting that all trainers report the number of horses that they have and what conditions they will fit. This will allow the two racetracks  to write condition or claiming events that will fit their horse supply while accommodating the horsemen.  The MHHA is meeting with Scarborough Downs and Bangor Raceway periodically for the next month. The lists can be emailed to kdkreddog@aol.com or blacktieonly@verizon.net or faxed to (207) 696-3004. The lists will be kept private.

3/14 - Here's the latest newsletter from the Maine Amateur Driving Club for spring 2007!

3/9 - Scarborough Downs is requiring all horses on the grounds to be vaccinated for the EVH virus. Please read.

Unofficially, Scarborough will hold qualifiers starting March 31 and continue every Tuesday and Saturday with a post time of 10:30 am. When we get official notice, we will post in the upcoming events section.

3/4 - The Maine Amateur Driving Club Application is now available. To participate in any events this year, the application must be filled out completely and payment of dues must be made.

3/3 - The Department of Public Safety handed out a packet explaining the current Commercial Vehicle Operation in the State of Maine. We have received a .pdf copy. Any horseman that hauls a horse in Maine should read this handout reviewing the law. We apologize for the poor quality of the file in advance.

2/25 - LD 1487, commonly referred to as the 3% bill, is currently having its language finalized before going to the agricultural committee at the State House. This is the legislation voted on by the MHHA and the MSBOA about restructuring how the MHHA is funded. The bill is sponsored by Rep. Donald Marean.

The legislation for Northern Maine Fair's effort to hold an extended meet this year is also in the language phase, but is not that far behind LD 1487. Both pieces of legislation should see advancement this week as the legislature reconvenes this week in Augusta

The MHHA's Scarborough Negotiating Committee will meet with management soon to discuss the upcoming 2007 racing season. Anyone with any concerns should contact Dr. Denise McNitt or Scott Dillon

2/21 - Bangor Raceway OTB is holding their 2nd annual Handicapping Contest starting this Saturday. Click here for details.
2/15 - A memo from Scarborough Downs concerning coggins tests and ship-ins.

2/7 - ASHLEE'S BIG GUY p,2, 1:53; 3,1:51.2; 1:50.4f $948,208, a winner of The Messenger Stake and winner of multiple open and invitational paces will stand stud in Maine this year at Somerset Standardbred Stable,  Visit http://www.somersetstandardbreds.com/ for more information.

2/4 - 2006 Survey results posted!

1/23 - More success for Maine Stakes graduates as PETER MILLS circles the Pompano oval wire to wire in 1:54.4 for the Prudenzano/Kellis team. It was PETER MILLS first start since the Sire Stakes final in October at Scarborough.

1/22 - An important vote will take place during the MSBOA's winter meeting. For more details please click here.

1/21 - Maine sire stake graduate PEMBROKE TOUCH, 3 Year Colt Champion,  visited the Meadowlands winner's circle Saturday night after winning an overnight event in 1:52.2 with George Brennan driving for the Bill Varney Stable. PEMBROKE TOUCH previously took a mark of 1:53.3 at the Meadows in December and was timed in 1:51.4 last week at the Meadowlands.

1/18 - The Maine Harness Racing Commission will meet on January 24. We have posted the agenda here.

1/4/2007 - WESTERN CYCLONE p,2, 1:51.3; 3,1:49.4 $380,431, a winner of a Breeders Crown Elimination and the North American Cup Consolation will stand stud in Maine this year at Dupuis Farm. Visit www.dupuisfarm.com for more information on the sire that defeated the likes of JEREME'S JET and MR. FEELGOOD

12/3 - Drew Campbell had a good weekend at Scarborough Downs getting 8 wins, 5 seconds and 3 thirds from 26 mounts. Jason Bartlett also had a good weekend at Scarborough getting 8 wins, 5 seconds and 3 thirds from 26 mounts. Thought it was funny that they both had the same stats for the weekend. (Sometimes I think I need a life!)

11/29 - The Maine Harness Racing Commission met today to approve licenses and assign race dates for 2007. The MHRC approved the requested race dates as was posted here except for the following: (1) Northern Maine Fair's request for 10 days of extended meet racing was moved to Saturdays instead of Thursdays so not to go head to head with Bangor (2) Northern Maine Fair must prove to the commission by May 1 that their financial liability to conduct the extended dates is sufficient, either by a change in statute or from private funding (3) Topsham Fair has changed their rain date from Wednesday to Tuesday to avoid head to head with Scarborough and (4) Scarborough has changed their post time on Labor Day to 3:45pm so not to race head to head  with Windsor, whose post time will be 1:00pm.
Scarborough Downs also asked to reopen the 2006 race dates to race on December 22 and 23, 2006 and drop December 30 and 31, 2006, which was approved by the commission.
Some opinions - I was impressed with newly appointed Northern Maine Fair President Linwood Winslow's presentation to the commission about the request for the new extended dates. While he has a big hurdle to overcome concerning the financial liability issue, and I hold reservations about the success of this endeavor, his dedication to the industry cannot be overlooked.
I was happy to see Shawn Gray, Michael Cushing and Jason Bartlett testify to the commission today. While they may feel their efforts may have been overlooked today, the fact that they showed up and testified is a step in the right direction for the horsemen.
Cumberland Fair stated that while they cannot do anything different for 2007, they are looking into requesting dates for March and April for 2008. This is a step in the right direction to stretch the season out and eliminate some downtime in the spring.
Ok, I'm coming off my soap box now. I apologize for not having the revised 2007 schedule posted tonight, but I'll get it up soon.

11/9 - EXCLUSIVE!!!!!! 2007 Requested Race Dates. Please remember that these are the requested dates and have not been approved by the racing commission until their meeting on the 29th. SOME MAJOR CHANGES!!

11/8 - We're keeping track of things at the Harrisburg sales with Maine connections. Updated for November 11.

11/8 - Here's the agenda for the November 29 Maine State Harness Racing Commission Meeting. Updated - Scarborough Downs will ask to race on Dec 23 & 24, 2006, which were not originally granted last year during this meeting.

10/27 - Jason Bartlett had a good day on Friday racing in Maine. His day started in Scarborough where he got six wins, one second and one third in eight starts. Then up I-95 to Bangor where he collected two wins two seconds and a third in nine starts. Eight wins on the day!

10/24 -The MHHA Board of Directors will have 3 positions opening on the board this year.  Two of the positions are At Large Positions and one is for District 3 (consisting of Penobscot, Aroostook, Washington, Piscataquis, Somerset, Hancock, and Waldo Counties).  Election to the Board of Directors shall be for a three year term.  Any qualified member of the association who desires to become a candidate for membership on the Board of Directors, may do so by notifying the Executive Secretary of the Association of his/her intentions by letter by November 30, 2006.  All letters of intent should be mailed to : Bill Hathaway, PO Box 610, Turner, ME 04282. - Wendy Ireland

10/18 - Gary Hall is home recuperating with a broken arm after an accident last night at Bangor Raceway when CAPRICE make a nasty break at the 3/4 pole and went down. Donald Dickison and SWEET SYRUP could not avoid CAPRICE and went down also. Donnie was able to drive in a later race and both horses escaped any serious injuries.

10/16 - Please be aware of some changes to the conditions sheets for both Bangor and Scarborough. Bangor has changed the declaration date for Tuesday's draws to Friday from Saturday. This also affects Sunday qualifiers that must also declare by Friday instead of Saturday.
For this week only, Scarborough will qualify on Friday. They will return to the normal Saturday schedule next week.

10/10 - Agenda for October 18 Maine State Harness Racing Commission meeting is posted.

10/9 - We have to do some maintenance this week and will not be updating until Friday or Saturday. We will be able to receive e-mails but will not be able to reply until Friday or Saturday.
We also have a new way that you can communicate with us. We have installed a dedicated fax number which is (866) 311-7755. Please feel free to communicate with us on any matters big or small.

9/26 - Congratulations to 16 Year Old Ryan Hall who captured his first pari mutual race today behind DANIEL at the Cumberland Fair in 2:01.0

9/25 - OK, lets get up to date. From day three at Oxford Fair:
  - READY FOR THE TRIP set a new track record for trotting aged horses in winning the Pine Tree Fair Classics Galaxy Division in 2:00.4 for driver Heath Campbell, trainer Mike Girouard and owner Michael Cebula
  - EARL OF PEMBROKE tied the track record for three year old colt trotters in 2:02.4 for driver Heath Campbell, trainer Val Grondin and owner Bill Varney
  - HELD CLOSELY, driven by Heath Campbell for trainer Stan Whittemore and owner Deb Whittemore, set a track record for two year old fillies in 2:02.3
  - PEMBROKE TOUCH set a track record for three year old gelding pacers in 1:58.4 for the Campbell, Grondin, Varney connection

From Day four at Oxford Fair
  - VINATERI set the track record for 4 year old gelded pacers in 1:58.0 for driver Brent Thayer, trainer Robert Simmons, Jr. and owner Billy Hartt
  - WORK OUT, driven by Heath Campbell, trained by Val Grondin and owned by John Baker, set a new track record for aged geldings in 1:56.0 and tied the all age track record also held by EIGHTH WONDER from last year.

Sunday at the Farmington Fair
  - TEAM JARDIN captured the track record for two year old colts in 2:01.2 for the Maine Prime Time Stable and driver/trainer Gary Mosher

Tuesday at the Farmington Fair
  - DRAFT CHOICE set the track record for aged pacing geldings in 1:56.3 for driver Charlene Urquidez, trainer Rick Cushing and owners Philip Cote and Jack Novia
  - PACIFIC JERRY set the track record for four year old geldings in 1:57.1 for driver Heath Campbell, trainer Bernard Fournier and owner Bill McElvain, Jr.

Wednesday at the Farmington Fair
  - P T'S EASY, driven and trained by Drew Campbell set an all age mares track record in 1:57.4. Drew owns P T'S EASY with William Foti

9/15 - The Maine State Harness Racing Commission will meet on September 26, 2006. The agenda for that meeting is posted by following this link.

9/14 - Day two at Oxford Fair, let's see what happened - more track records!!
  - SLATED FOR SUCCESS set the all age track record for trotters going in 1:59.1. The old mark was held by OPAL set last year. SLATED FOR SUCCESS was driven by Greg Bowden for owner/trainer Francis Tambolleo. It was also a seasonal mark for aged mare trotters.
  - In race 1, ALL NIGHT TRICK tied the track record for aged geldings in 1:58.2 only to have it broken in race 2 by ROYAS ROMEO in 1;58.0 for Jason Bartlett, driver; Randy Bickmore, trainer; and Gerald Smith, owner.
  - Then came LUCKY'S REPORT in race 9 and set the new mark at 1:56.4 for aged geldings for driver/trainer Shawn Gray and owners Clark & Wayne Davis
  - DANIEL came along to tie the record for aged geldings at 1:56.4 for Drew Campbell and owner/trainer Craig Hall
  - LANDMARK PRECIOUS, undefeated in stakes action, set a lifetime mark and a track record for three year old fillies in 1:58.2 for driver Irv Mauran, trainer Cheryl Mauran and owners Joseph Palmeri and Irv Mauran
  - YEA-MEL captured the track record for aged horses by going in 1:58.0 for Greg Bowden, Mike Hitchcock and Bill Dunton. The previous record of 1:59.4 was held by DO RUN MIKE.
  - All visitors to the winner's circle set seasonal marks for Maine tracks.

9/13 - Oxford Fair starts off where it ended last year - breaking track records!! Two were broken today and two first time records were established.
   - POP N PAULA set the new track record for three year old fillies in 2:04.4 for Gary Mosher and Sheridan Smith. The old record was 2:07.2 set by SPECIAL MOVE last year.
  - FOUR STARZ PRINCE set a new mark of 1:58.2 for four year old horses for driver Jason Bartlett, trainer Frank Withee and owner Jane Holmes. The old mark 1:59.0 was held by RESERVED, set last year.
  - FORWARD MOMENTUM established the track record for three year old trotting geldings, trotting the mile in a lifetime mark of 2:03.2 for driver/trainer Gordon Corey and owner Mike Andrew.
  - DA PRINCESS became the first two year old to win a race at Oxford Fair, establishing a track record two year old pacing fillies in 2:03.2 for driver Alex MacDonald, trainer Alison MacDonald and owners Shirley Huff and Sonja MacDonald.

9/10 - PERCEE ANGUS, driven by Gary Mosher, won the winners over for fillies and mares at Scarborough today at 1:55.1 and set the state track record for mares. PERCEE ANGUS is owned by Michael Cayouette and James Christensen for trainer Gary Mosher.

BOOGEYMAN wins the Maine Sire Stakes Final for 2 Year Old Colt Pacers for driver Steve Mahar, trainer Allie Hiscock and owners Lynda Douglas and Franklin Hiscock. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

Joey Mosher brings KEY TO LAHART to the winner's circle in the Maine Sire Stakes Final for 2 Year Old Filly Pacers for owner Brent Olson and trainer Scott Blackler. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick.

Bill Varney's PEMBROKE FORWARD, from the Valerie Grondin Stable, and driven by Heath Campbell,  wins the 2006 Maine Sire Stakes Final for 2 year old colt trotters. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

PEMBROKE MATRON wins the Maine Sire Stakes Final for 2 year old filly trotters for Varney, Grondin & Campbell. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

9/4 - YANKEE ANTHEM wins the 2006 edition of the Windsor Fair Invitational over a muddy track in 2:01.2 for driver Steve Mahar and owner/trainer Bernard Charlton. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

9/1 - The Finals of the Maine Sire Stakes for Two Year Olds will be held on Sunday, September 10 at Scarborough Downs. Base Purse for the finals for the two year olds was announced today to be $45,000. Estimates for the three year old finals in October may reach $75,000.

A fast day at the Windsor Fair as all nine winners set seasonal marks within the State of Maine.

8/22 - Please Note New Post Time for Union for Friday is 2:00 pm

8/19 - The 2006 edition of the Walter Hight Invitational was won by Scott Dillon's ARTCHIE ANDREWS in the time of 1:55.4 for driver Jason Bartlett and Trainer Sonia Bartlett. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

8/19 - The Maine Amateur Driving Club is heading to Plainridge Raceway for some friendly competition with The New England Amateur Driving Club. The event occurs on Tuesday, August 22. Representing Maine are Paul Bresciani, Bill MacDonald, Joe Burke, Tom Beckwith, Todd Whitney, and Bob Gray. The next local action will be at The Union Fair on Saturday, August 26. I urge all eligible drivers to come out and join the fun. We will draw the name of the representative of our club to go to The Tim Fouts Memorial Race in Delaware, Ohio at Union on Saturday. - Buddy Burke

8/17 - There are some rule changes concerning Maine Owned and Maine Bred and other rule that will go into effect on August 21, 2006. To read these new rule changes follow this link

8/12 - Congratulations to Joe Burke who won the first leg of the Maine Amateur Driving Club today at Topsham Fair behind BALLYJAMESDUFF N, going the mile in 2:02.3.

8/11 - Topsham Fair has a brand new all age track record on the trot as the classy mare SNAP DANCER went the mile in 2:01.3 to erase the old standard set by CURRENT CAST of 2:01.4 in 1999. SNAP DANCER was driven by Greg Bowden, trained by Fred Ward, and owned by Bruce Bridgham.

8/10 - Congratulations to Kevin Pillsbury, who recorded his first driving victory today at Topsham Fair behind HOLLYWOOD HALL.

8/9 - Maine State Harness Racing Commission Agenda for August 16 Meeting

8/8 - Congratulations to Joseph Douglas who recorded his first driving victory aboard DR DALOOOOOOZEE in his third career drive at the Topsham Fair on Tuesday afternoon.

8/8 - Topsham Fair has scheduled the first leg of the Maine Amateur Driving Club for Saturday, August 12. Please check the condition sheet for details.

8/7 - The MHHA has written a letter to the management of Scarborough Downs concerning removal of the hub rail following a tragic accident Friday night which directly involved the stationary hub rail. According to the letter, track management has to respond to MHHA's request by Wednesday night.

8/4 - CHEWY GROSS, winner of this year's Paul Bunyan Invitational at Bangor Raceway went north of the border to Woodstock NB and won the Robert McCain Invitational in 1:54.0 setting a new track record for New Brunswick. Last year JASON'S JIFFY set the mark at 1:54.1 in the McCain after he won the Paul Bunyan. Coincidence??? CHEWY GROSS is going north again next to compete in the Gold Cup and Saucer, as did JASON'S JIFFY.

8/2 - The Maine Amateur Driving Club's competition with Plainridge's club has been set for August 22. The conditions are non-winners of $200 per start average or non-winners of $300 per start average. Paul Verette said he would add claimers (if necessary) or adjust conditions in order to host the event. I need to hear from all drivers interested in going (asap) in order to organize the event. You can get licensed at the track. The more the better. - Buddy Burke 743-2979 or buddy.burke@verizon.net

7/31 - The Maine Amateur Driving Club is gearing up for the 2006 season. The first fair starts Friday night in Presque Isle. This year we adopted (2) classes for our club: 1. non-winners of $200 per start average for the last 10 starts or $3000 claimers 2. non-winners of $300 per start average for the last 10 starts or $5000 claimers. This year we joined the USTA amateur club; which allows us to address our club on their web site and also to send a member to Delaware, Ohio to participate in the Tim Fouts Memorial Race for amateur drivers the week of The Little Brown Jug. There is a five dollar fee to become a member of the Maine Amateur Driving Club which is payable to Buddy Burke at l46 East Main Street--South Paris, Me 04281P. S. I am working on a competition with Plainridge for late in August with them coming to Scarborough late in October--so let me know if you are interested and what ya got. Phone 743-2979 E-mail buddy.burke@verizon.net

7/23 - CHEWY GROSS set a new track record for aged geldings at Bangor Raceway as he won the $20,000 Paul Bunyan Invitational in 1:53.4. Drew Campbell drove CHEWY GROSS for trainer Jamie Smith and owner Martin Scharf. The mile was the second fastest mile at Bangor Raceway and the third fastest mile in the state of Maine. The biggest crowd of the season at Bangor bet $67,986 on the 12-dash card. Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

7/21 - HIGHWAY HANOVER trotted his way into Scarborough Downs record books tonight by trotting the 3rd fastest mile by a trotter in 1:58.0. He set the new track standard for aged geldings, surpassing the old standard set by SUPER SPEEDY in the Legislator Trot in 1989. HIGHWAY HANOVER is owned by Scott Dillon of Anson, ME, driven by Jason Bartlett and trained by Scott Blackler.

7/21 - All horsemen please read!!! This is a letter written by the Standardbred Pleasure Horse Organization of Maine to its members. While the SPHO mission is commendable, they are suggesting some extreme changes to how harness racing is done in the state of Maine. As an owner, trainer, breeder, driver or groom it is important to educate yourself on what changes the SPHO would like to make and make your views known to your MHHA representative.

7/20 - Field set for the $20,000 Paul Bunyan Invitational Sunday at Bangor Raceway.

The agenda for the next Harness Racing Commission is posted here.

7/13 - Horsemen that plan on going north to the Northern Maine Fair in Presque Isle that are looking for stalls are encouraged to contact Wendell or Joy Duncan at (207) 227-9147.

7/10 - The Annual Summer Meeting of the MSBOA will be held on Monday, July 17, 2006 in the Winner's Circle Lounge at Scarborough Downs with the business meeting starting at 3:30 PM and social hour and dinner starting at 4:30 PM. Keynote speaker will be former Maine Commission Chairperson Joseph P. Kenneally.

7/9 - Scarborough Downs recorded its 2,500 sub-two minute mile on Saturday night when RANCHER crossed the wire in 1:59.1 for the RAM Racing Stable and driver Jason Bartlett.

7/5 - Congratulations to Kenny Watson, who collected his 1st career driving win aboard OUTA MY WAY LADIES at Scarborough Downs tonight.

7/3 - William Parker, Jr, who started his career in Maine before relocating to New York captured his 9,000 win yesterday aboard NEVER LOOK BACK today at his home base of Monticello Raceway. Congratulations to "Zeke" Parker!

Photo by racehorsephoto.com

7/1 - WHITLOCK N captures fastest mile of 2006 so far by going in 1:54.4 at Scarborough Downs. It was the 5th fastest mile ever recorded at Scarborough, and the 14th fastest mile ever recorded in the State of Maine. WHITLOCK N was driven by Kevin Switzer, trained by Robert Marston, and owned by Lorna Cohen.

6/30 - MAIN STAGE, the two year old trotter that set all the track records at Bangor Raceway, established a new track record at Rockingham Park today for 2 year old trotters by going the mile in 1:59.4. MAIN STAGE was driven by Kim Ireland for trainer Wendy Ireland and owner Ray Ireland.

6//28 - YANKEE ANTHEM will head into Friday night's Open class with the boys after tying the mare's all age track record at Bangor Raceway last night in 1:56.1. She was driven by Stephen Mahar for owner Bernard Charlton.
Other highlights from Tuesday night included FORWARD MOMENTUM getting the win over MILES MOVING in the MSBS 3 year old Colt trotters division, and POP N PAULA returning to her winning ways in the MSBS 3 year old filly division.

6/23 - Maine Sire Stakes Graduate BLOND MOMENT repeated her new lifetime mark today at Rockingham Park. While holding off heavily favored I'm All In at the 1/2 pole,  BLOND MOMENT set the pace wire to wire in 1:54.3 on a sloppy track,  matching her new lifetime mark set just 2 weeks ago with Kevin Switzer doing the driving. Today's repeat performance, with Ronald Cushing driving comes after BLOND MOMENT was timed at 1:53 flat at Rockingham Park on June 16. BLOND MOMENT (a four year old by Neutralize) is owned and trained by Charles S Eaton III. - Neil Foley

6/23 - It was Shawn Gray Night at Bangor Raceway as he piloted three horses to the winners circle in under 1:57 and collected his 1,000 career win. Shawn got his 1,000 win with TALENT AGENT in 1:57.2. He also scored with BEST CONNECTION in 1:56.3, SAM FRANCISCO ACE in 1:56.0 and THE BOY N in 1:56.3. This was the first time in Bangor Raceway history that three miles on the card was paced under 1:57.0 - Photo by Shelley Gilpatrick

6/19 - Have you noticed an increase in speed? Last year at this time there were 48 sub two minute miles recorded, the fastest being 1:57.1 and only five were under 1:58.0. This year there have been 146 sub two minute miles recorded with the fastest being 1:55.0, three under 1:56.0, fifteen under 1:57.0 and 36 under 1:58.0. We have also established three new track records at Bangor Raceway this year.

6/18 - MAIN STAGE, a 2 year old colt trotter, set a new track record at Bangor Raceway today in 2:03.3, only 3/5ths off the state record of 2:03.0. MAIN STAGE is owned by Lew Hayden, trained by Ray Ireland, and driven by Kim Ireland. MAIN STAGE has stepped on the track at Bangor three times (two races and a qualifier) and has lowered the track record each time.

6/17 - Ron Cushing captured his 1000th win today at Rockingham Park in the first race behind LOST THE FLIP in 1:54.3

6/16 - Trivia Question - In light of tonights claim of JATE'S SKYHAWK at Bangor for $10,000, has there ever been a claim in the state of Maine for $10,000 or more before tonight? If anyone has the answer, e-mail us.
UPDATED - SHIEK OF DOVER was claimed on 8/21/2001 in an $8000 Claimer at Scarborough with a 25% allowance, making it a $10,000 claim. He was claimed by Lisa Gosselin from Lyle Bedell. Thanks to Renee Richardson and Lisa Saindon for providing the information.
ANOTHER UPDATE -- COOL HEAD owned by Walter Case, Jr. was 3 years old in a $10,000 claimer and with allowances, was claimed for $15,000 by Miles Francis at Lewiston Raceway in the late 1980's. Thanks to Scott Dillon for the info.

6/15 - We are keeping an eye on Ron Cushing who is at 998 career wins and Shawn Gray who is at 995 career wins as of Thursday night.

The agenda for the next Maine State Harness Racing Commission has been posted.

6/2 - The UMaine Equine Program is indirectly benefiting from slot revenue and have formed an advisory committee with the harness racing industry....read more.

5/29 -David Higgins, Jr. died May 29, Memorial Day, at Maine Medical Center. His wife of 50 years was by his side.
He was born on August 16, 1928, a son of David Higgins and Genevieve Wellehan Higgins of Auburn. He was a graduate of Edward Little High School, Maine Central Institute and Bates College, where he earned a degree in economics.
Dave was a family-oriented man. He was a little league coach and was active in the Boy Scouts. He was also a civic-minded individual who served as a school director for SAD 51 for four years. He was a past director of the Cumberland Water District, a selectman and councilman for the town of Cumberland. He was the original director of Val Halla Golf Course in Cumberland. Dave was also a past president of the Maine Harness Horseman's Association. He was president of the Board of Trustees at MCI and a former president of the Greater Portland Council of Government. He served on the Dealer Forum for Remington Rand.
One of Dave's passions was golf. He was a member of Kingsway Country Club in Lake Suzy, Florida as well as Val Halla golf course in Cumberland.He enjoyed playing for the Maine Senior's Golf Association.
Dave was extremely athletic. He was not only a good golfer, but also a Golden Gloves Boxer who had an opportunity to go pro. He played football and basketball in college. He very much enjoyed cheering for his children and grandchildren at sporting events.
He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Higgins; a son, David and his wife, Linda of Cumberland; a daughter, Lisa Siegal and her husband, Byron of N.H.; a son, Peter of Cumberland; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; his siblings, Bill and his wife, Joyce of Auburn, Gene and his wife, Claudie of Yarmouth and a sister, Dorothy of Lewiston.
Those who wish, may send an online tribute in Dave's honor at
www.mem.com
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Cumberland/North Yarmouth Football Boosters,
c/o Gerry Nadeau,
Filler & Associates PA,
P.O. Box 4177,
Portland, ME 04101-0377.
Lindquist Funeral Home
Funeral Home & Cremation Service
846-4011

5/27 - Congratulations to Robert Dinning who collected his first career win Saturday night at Scarborough Downs behind SON OF ARTURO for owner Ival Cianchette

5/24 - The 2006 Sustaining List & Yearling Nominations have been released.

5/20 - Congratulations to Kevin Switzer, who collected his 2,000 win tonight at Scarborough Downs.

5/17 - Details of the 2006 Maine Amateur Driving Club have been announced.

5/12 - Congratulation to Jason Bartlett, Maine's leading driver for 2004 & 2005, who captured his 1,000 driving win tonight at Bangor Raceway behind JAMBOREE HANOVER.

                                                  (Shelly Gilpatrick Photo)

5/10 - Congratulations to Heath Campbell, who captured his 2,500 win today at Scarborough Downs behind JATE'S SKYHAWK. One of the top drivers in the State of Maine, this Maritime native has won numerous driving titles at Bangor Raceway and has captured at least one driving title at all of the Maine fairs. Heath has won at least 150 races a year for the last 10 years.

5/9 - Here is the agenda for the next Commission Meeting on May 18, 2006

5/6 - Another Maine Sire Stakes Graduate, PEMBROKE CUSHY set a new lifetime mark today at The Meadows of 1:53.1.

5/4 - Maine Sire Stakes Graduate BATON set a new lifetime mark today at Saratoga Raceway, going wire to wire in 1:54.4 for driver/trainer John Stark, Jr. and owners RAM Racing Stable from Portland.

4/22 - Shawn Gray accomplished something today at Scarborough Downs that has only happened once before. The Gray-trained pacers MISTER GENDER and THE BOY N both paced in 1:56.2. Shawn joins David Crochere as the only trainers that have had sub 1:57.0 pacers on the same card. Crochere had RAQUE BALBOA in 1:55.2 and CHATHAM HOOCHIE in 1:56.3 on June 27, 1999.
There have been 24 sub-2:00 miles so far this year. That is the most sub-2:00 miles for this time of year. The closest was in 1998 and 1999 which both had 20 sub-2:00 miles before May 1, and we still have one week to go before May 1.

4/19 - It took 21 months to collect the final 12 wins needed, but today Chris Long reached the 2000 win plateau aboard PACIFIC PIZZAZZ during Race 2 today at Scarborough Downs. He ended the day with 5 wins, including a 90-1 shot aboard YEA MEL, and 2 seconds on the ten race card. Chris's first career win was in 1988, and he reached the 1,000 win plateau on Dec 14, 1998 in Monticello aboard KAJONA CARTER in 2:01.1

4/14 - The MHHA would like all available horsemen to attend the April 19th Harness Racing Commission Meeting to discuss Maine Owned/Bred conditioned races. The agenda for the Commission meeting can be viewed here.

4/10 - Bangor Raceway is gearing up for its 2006 season. Qualifiers will be held on Saturday, April 22nd at 10:00 am and Tuesday, April 25th at 6:00 pm. Returning as Race Secretary for this season will be Matt Benson, and the assistant Race Secretary will be Elizabeth MacKenzie; Darci Dickison is the program director and Brenda Smith will be the clerk. Up in the crow's nest will be Walter McIntyre as presiding judge, with Ken Ronco and Frank Hall as associate judges. Brent Bradley will be in the car as starter and Ralph Canney will take the task of State Steward. Racing starts April 28th. Opening weekend condition sheet should be available next week.

4/2 - Congratulations to Randy Bickmore who scored his 500th driving win today in the second race aboard MR MIDWAY.

4/1 -The Maine Harness Horsemen's Association is proud to announce that they have signed a one-year contract with Scarborough Downs.

3/31 - The Slots Era in Maine Harness Racing began today with the opening of Scarborough Downs. The first race was won by NATOM N in 2:03.0 for Chris Long who returned to the sulky after a busman's holiday. The feature trot went to SNAP DANCER in 2:00.0. Driving Doubles were recorded by John Nason, Shane Taggart and Chris Long, and MURRAWEE MAGIC A, a winner of 16 races last year will be switching barns after being claimed for $3000.

3/28 - On Monday night at Woodbine Racetrack, BILLY BILTMORE became, for what we can tell, the fastest Maine sired racehorse by pacing in 1:52.2 over the seven-eighths mile track. He was then claimed for $15,000.
On Saturday night at Rosecroft Raceway, BATON set a new lifetime mark of 1:56.0. BATON is owned by RAM Racing Stable who also own ANNIE MCGUIRE N who won the winners over the same night in 1:54.4.

3/17 - The board of directors of the Maine Harness Horsemen's Association met with some of the fair directors on Friday afternoon in Augusta to negotiate a contract with the pari-mutual fairs. Representing all of the pari-mutual fairs was Mike Timmons who represented Cumberland Fair, Bill McFarland, who represented Windsor Fair and Richard Crabtree who represented Union Fair. The MHHA is pleased to announce that the meeting was very productive and positive and are close to signing contracts with all of the pari-mutual fairs.

3/15 - The MHHA is proud to announce that Penn National/Bangor Raceway has signed a three year contract with the Maine Harness Horsemen's Association.

3/14 -Creighton Meader Hemphill, 75, a fixture for many years at New England racetracks and in the horse industry, died this past Saturday in Portland, Maine.
Hemphill was a livestock dealer for many years, and was involved with many breeds of horses, including Standardbreds. He was survived by his wife of 48 years, Margaret McBride Hemphill; his mother, Pauline Meader Patterson; a sister, Kay Hemphill Martin; and many other family members.
On Sunday, March 19, beginning with a Masonic Service at 1 p.m. (EST), a memorial gathering will be held at the China Lake Conference Center, China Neck Road, China, Maine.
In lieu of flowers, an Equine Scholarship Fund will be set up in Hemphill's name. Donations should be made payable to “Creighton's Way” and sent to Margaret Hemphill, 577 Oak Grove Rd., Vassalboro, ME 04989. Donations may also be made in Hemphill’s name to the China Lake Conference Center, P.O. Box 6149, China Village, ME 04926. - John Pawlak, USTA

3/10 - Scarborough Downs will hold qualifiers on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10:00 am starting March 15 at 10:00 am. Horses must be entered by Noon on the previous day.

3/5 - In Augusta today, around 25 horsemen got together to discuss various topics concerning our industry. The major topics were the MHHA's contract discussions with Scarborough Downs, racing conditions at Scarborough and Bangor's upcoming meet. MHHA President Butch MacKenzie reiterated that our voices still be need to be heard in Augusta. Horsemen should be aware of who their representatives are in Augusta and be sure that they are registered voters. There is still work to do in Augusta with the legislature and the racing commission and the horsemen may be needed to stand up with the MHHA in Augusta.

3/2 - There is a TRAINER'S WORKSHOP being held Sunday, March 5 at 2:00 pm in the Hancock Room at the Augusta Civic Center. All are invited to attend.

2/21 - We are back up and running after a computer problem at our host company. We apologize for any inconvenience. We also lost our incoming e-mail. If you sent us anything over the last two days. we would appreciate it if you could resend it.

2/17 - Maine's Amateur Driving Series is getting ready for another season of races for amateur drivers. For those interested or if anyone has any questions, please call Buddy Burke at (207) 743-2979 or email him at buddy.burke@verizon.net

2/15 - We have lost a good friend:
Eugene C. "Geno"  D'Alessandro Sr., 68, resident of Portland, and Vernon, Vt., died Friday, Feb. 9, 2006 in Portland. He was born May 21, 1937 in Bronx, N.Y., a son of Adolph and Rose (Alessi) D'Alessandro. He was educated in New York and graduated from Arch Bishop Stepanic High School in White Plains, N.Y., with the Class of 1955. He served in the U.S. Navy following high school. He had owned several restaurants and nightclubs in Massachusetts, Vermont and Maine, most recently, Geno's in Portland. He was recognized for his contributions to the music industry in Portland by the Portland Phoenix when they awarded him their Lifetime Music Achievement Award. Mr. D'Alessandro was an active owner/driver/trainer of harness racing horses in New England and New York. He was a communicant of St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church of Portland. He will be remembered as a people person that one would never forget when they met him.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Marietta (Pacione) D'Alessandro of Vernon, Vt.; four children, Karen Macaluso of Granite Springs, N.Y., Teresa Kampner of West Dover, Vt., Eugene C. D'Alessandro Jr., of Biddeford, and Anthony P. D'Alessandro of Santa Clarita, Calif.; a sister, Judith Douglas of Mahopac, N.Y.; seven grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Services will be private.
Arrangements are by Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, Portland.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to:
St. Jude's Research Hospital
P.O. Box 50
Memphis, Tenn. 38101

2/1 - Details on the MSBOA Silent Stallion Auction

1/29 - We have corrected the track record page for Windsor Fair. SAM FRANCISCO ACE set the track record for four year old geldings in 2003 at 1:54.2 with Shawn Gray driving and training for owners Gaetan Cloutier and Mary Jane Parker.

1/24 - Michael Cayouette & James Christensen's 4 year old mare PERCEE ANGUS has drawn the rail for the final of the $48,000 White Truffles Late Closer at the Meadowlands Thursday night. She goes into the final after scoring a 1:54.1 win last week in the second leg. Jeff Gregory will be sitting in the sulky when trainer Scott Rollins sends her out on the track. Also on the same card in the twelfth race is GOOD GOALIE, a 3 year old colt by THE PANDEROSA who won his first start this year in 1:55.1. He is partly owned by Bill Varney. In the tenth race, a $20,000 claimer,  we find MAKE A BIG SPLASH, owned by Scott McGee and Lester Dancer, who set a track record last year at Topsham Fair. In the seventh race, Scott Dillon's REAL SPARKS is 7-2 out of the nine hole in a $25,000 claimer, and Jimmy Whittemore handles the reins for OFF THE CHARTS in the third race for trainer Mark Ford. Dennis Whittemore and Donald Harmon own OFF THE CHARTS.

1/19 - A look at this year's MHHA Banquet & Awards

1/14 - Year End Voting Results are in!!

1/1/2006 - Maine Sire Stakes Schedule for 2006 is now posted.

11/30 - Remembering Walter Case, Sr. - A Letter To The Editor.

11/29 - Click here for details on the Downeast Harness Horsemen's Assocation Banquet to be held in Bangor on January 21, 2006

11/22 - Race Dates for 2006 approved by the ME Harness Racing Commission.
Highlights include both Scarborough and Bangor increasing dates. Scarborough starts on March 31 and will go four days a week starting in April, with increased racing in the fall. Scarborough has also changed post times at night to 7:15pm and 1:30 pm on Sundays during the summer.
 Bangor will open April 28 for two days a week until June when they will pick up Tuesday nights. Bangor will also race for four weeks after the conclusion of the fair season

11/18 - DUE DAMAGE, a former Season Leader earlier this summer, owned by Stevens & Loiko, placed 5th in the first division of the Oil Burner Friday at The Meadowlands. Second division is Thanksgiving weekend and the $50,000 final is the next weekend.

11/19 - MHHA Family members of all MHHA members are eligible to apply for the MHHA Scholarships to attend accredited post-secondary educational programs. Application deadline is December 1, 2005. Applications are available from MHHA, PO Box 610, Turner, ME 04282, or contact any of the MHHA Board of Directors.

11/13 - Results from Harrisburg Sale for Maine Connections

10/16 - Maine Sire Stakes Three Year Old Finals are held at Scarborough Downs. For details, click here.

10/14 - Maine Season Leader KEROGEN won the Keystone Classics for two year old colt trotters at The Meadows in 1:59.1 for driver/trainer Kim Ireland and owner Lew Hayden. KEROGEN finished the season with a 10-6-3-1 record, $90,722 earned and a mark of 1:58.3 taken at The Meadows. Photo courtesy The Meadows.

10/13 - Maine's leading driver Jason Bartlett tested the waters this week at Northfield Park in Ohio and had a successful trip visiting the winner's circle twice in eight races.

10/7 - We had been keeping an eye on Chet Carter's Career Driving Wins and it had been hovering around 495 or so according to USTA records. We got a couple of e-mails concerning Chet's career wins, and we called the USTA and had them do some research and discovered that Chet has 563 career wins and he collected his 500th win in 1990.

10/5 - STAR'S PHOTO smashes Fryeburg All Age Trotting Track Record in 1:59.3 driven by Heath Campbell, trained by Valerie Grondin and owned by William Varney. STAR'S PHOTO now can claim seven track records in the State of Maine, which is the most of any horse.

10/4 - RED STAR CLINT, winner of four legs and points leader overcame post position 7 today at Fryeburg Fair to win the $6,150 final of the Maine Promotional Board Agricultural Fair Late Closer Final by a head over RUNAWAY MONK in 2:00.1. Congratulations to driver Mark Athearn and owner/trainer Gretchen Rohr.

JATE'S SKYHAWK tied the Fryeburg Fair track record for four year old geldings today in 1:58.2 for driver Heath Campbell, trainer Valerie Grondin & owner Bill Varney. The record is also held by MORTY who set it in 2004

10/2 - EIGHTH WONDER sets the new track record for four year old mares at Cumberland Fair today in 1:58.3 for driver/trainer Wally Watson and owner Robert Frazier.

10/1 - TRUSCOTT STEEL A sets a new all age trotting track record at Cumberland Fair today in 1:59.2, cutting the mile and winning by 13 lengths for driver/trainer Ron Cushing and owners Paul & Patricia Perry. The old record of 1:59.4 was held by MIC MAC JACK, set in 2000

9/30 - Here are the fastest races in Maine for 2005

9/30 - MADONNA HANOVER tied the track record for aged mares today in 1:58.1 for The East Pond Stable, trainer David Crochere and driver Jason Bartlett. She now shares the record with TWIN B CANDY who set the record last year.

9/27 - One of Maine's Greats, Harold Ralph, Sr. Passes Away. (Link to Bangor Daily News Obituary)

9/27 - Maine Horses Win Championship Events In Massachusetts

9/26 - TRUSCOTT STEEL A sets a new track record at Cumberland Fair for aged trotting geldings in 2:00.4 for driver / trainer Ron Cushing and owners Paul & Patricia Perry.

9/24 - JASON'S JIFFY set a new all age pacing record at Farmington Fair Saturday in the $5000 Hight Invitational Pace going wire to wire in 1:55.1 for driver Drew Campbell, trainer Randy Bickmore and owner Brian Bickmore. The old record which stood for six years was held by RHINE WINE at 1:56.0

RARE CONNECTION set the new track standard for four year old pacing mares at Farmington Fair in 1:58.4 for driver John Davidson, trainer Rodney Grady and owner Ronald Ralph. The previous record was held by STYLISH JEWEL of 1:59.0 set back in 1994

9/23 - Congratulations to Jason MacDougall for recording his 1,000th win last night at Saratoga Raceway.

9/18 - MAXIMUM RETURN, owned by Doug Hutchins & Paul Kinnear, trained and driven by Ivan Davies won the $150,000 New York Sire Stakes Championship for three year old colt & gelding trotters Saturday night at Saratoga Raceway in 1:58.3. Next stop for MAXIMUM RETURN will be the Matron Stakes.

9//17 - Day Four at Oxford -
  - JOLLY HOLLY establishes a new track record for aged mares in 1:57.4 for owner Ronald Ralph, trainer David Crochere and driver Jason Bartlett.
  - OPAL sets the track standard for aged trotting mares in 2:03.0 for owner/trainer David Miller and driver Jason Bartlett
  - The four year old horse track record becomes the property of RESERVED in 1:59.0 for Windsor Kon X Tion, trainer Richard Bartlett and driver Jason Bartlett.
  - DRAFT CHOICE takes the track record for aged paging geldings in 1:58.2 for owners Philip Cote & Jack Novia, trainer Rick Cushing and driver Brewster Burns
  - A total of fifteen new track records set over the four day meet, a total of 21 sub-two minute miles recorded, half of all of the races.

9/16 - Records continue to fall at Oxford Fair:
  - PEMBROKE CUSHY sets the track record for three year old colts in 1:58.1 for the Varney/Grondin/Campbell Stable.
  - R S BANKER sets the track record for aged trotting horses in 2:02.1 for owner/trainer/driver Louis Talarico, II. It was also the first lifetime win for Louis Talarico as a driver
  - MARIE POLO set the track record for aged mares in 1:58.1 for owner Bruce Poirier, trainer Lonnie Lefebvre and driver Shane Taggart. This was the second track record set this year by MARIE POLO.

9/15 - EIGHTH WONDER gets a two hole trip with fractions cut by REAL SPARKS and captures the win in 1:56.0 setting an all time all age track record at the Oxford Fair today for driver / trainer Wallace Watson and owner Bob Frazier

  - BLOND MOMENT set the track standard at Oxford today for three year old fillies in 1:59.3 for driver Wallace Watson and owner/trainer Charles Eaton, III.
  - DO RUN MIKE set a track record today for aged horses in 1:59.4 for driver Jason Bartlett, trainer Franklin Hiscock and owner Katherine Nason
  - The classy veteran CHATHAM HOOCHIE set the track record today for aged geldings at age 11 in 1:58.3 for owner Robyn Crochere, trainer David Crochere and driver Heath Campbell

9/14 - Oxford Fair's track improvements produce instant results -
   - PARTNERSHIPPROBLEM sets a new all age track record for trotters in 2:01.3 in a qualifing race for owners Scott McGee & Lester Dancer with Mike Cushing driving.
  - SPECIAL MOVE establishes the first track record for three year old fillies at 2:07.2 for driver/trainer Ivan Davies and owners Paul Kinnear & Doug Hutchins
  - WESTRIDGE NOGOSSIP establishes the first track record for three year old colt trotters in 2:02.4 for driver Steve Mahar and owners Douglas Beckwith and Paul Mullen
  - HOOSIER BOB breaks the track record for aged horses in 1:59.0 for owner Brenda Deojay, trainer Willard Henderson and driver Greg Bowden.
  - RUSTICO STORM breaks the track record for three year old geldings in 1:59.0 for driver Heath Campbell and owner/trainer Doug Beckwith

9/11 - Upsets Recorded At Scarborough Downs

9/11 - Exciting Day of MSBS Finals at Scarborough Downs:

 - FORWARD MOMENTUM with Gordon Corey driving get the win over a close TEXAS TNT with Ivan Davies.

 - POP N PAULA wins the filly trotting division for driver Gary Mosher and owner Sheridan Smith

 - CK'S DRAGON wins in a photo finish with 35-1 LOVELY LIL for the two year old filly pacers for driver Jason Bartlett and The East Pond Stable

 - ROLLIN' WEST with Mike Graffam posts the upset in the colt pacing division.

9/7 - Cornish to Remember Racing's Roots

9/7 - BON VOYAGE, owned by Portland businessman, Richard A. Mathurin, is the newly-crowned champion two-year old trotting filly of the New Jersey Sire Stakes after winning the season’s final race at Freehold Raceway on Wednesday afternoon.  BON VOYAGE trotted the Freehold half-mile track in 1:57.2, a national season’s record.
BON VOYAGE is managed by Rich Mathurin, Jr. and is trained by young Sweden-born trotting specialist, Jonas Czernyson.  She has been driven in all of her races by David Miller.

9/5 - Another record day on Windsor's Labor Day Card:
   - Race One of the day saw STAR'S PHOTO and Heath Campbell equal the all age track record for trotters in 1:58.4. The record is also held by both INDIANAPOLIS and U TOE THE MARK
  - Race Seven saw current Maine Stakes star WESTRIDGE NOGOSSIP turn the oval twice impressively in 2:00.2 on the trot with Steve Mahar
  - Race Twelve on the card was the Fillies & Mares Open which went to Meadows ship-in JOLLY HOLLY  in 1:55.4 which was one fifth of a second off the track record held by FRENCH STEPP
  - Race Fourteen was the $6000 Windsor Invitational which was captured by ARTCHIE ANDREWS in 1:54.4, which tied the track record for four year old geldings also held by BEACH DRAGON

9/2 - Highlights from Friday's Windsor Racing -

  - RACE ME VOLCANO wins by a head over PEMBROKE CUSHY is a season's fastest 1:56.0 in the 3 Year Old  Colts & Geldings MSBS Race #2
   - SAMMY NEUTRON then wins Race #5 in 1:56.0 also in the second division of the MSBS 3 Year Old Colts & Geldings
  - 17-Year Old Dustin Ingraham wins his first pari mutual race in race #7 in 1:58.2 behind WINNING HEART. Dustin is the son of David Ingraham & Kelly Case.
  - Congratulation to Cathy Smith who's win today was the fastest win of her career in 2:00.2 behind her horse SILVER GLEN.

8/28 - Opening Day at Windsor Fair Produces Four Track Records!

  - JASON'S JIFFY sets a new track record for aged horses in 1:54.2, the eighth fastest mile ever in the State of Maine, one fifth off the overall track record at Windsor Fair. Congratulations to owner Brian Bickmore, driver Drew Campbell and trainer Randy Bickmore. The old record was held by VALIANT TOWNER, who did the trick twice.
  - ALLAMERICAN STASH ties the Windsor track record for 3 year old colts in 1:56.3. Congratulations to owners Scott Dillon & Bob Sumner, trainer Richard Bartlett and driver Jason Bartlett. 
  - POP N PAULA revenges her only loss last week by setting a new lifetime mark of 2:05.1 and sets a new Windsor Fair track record for two year old trotting fillies. Congratulations to owner Sheridan Smith and driver/trainer Gary Mosher. The old record of 2:06.3 was held by FRANKENSTARR in 1996
  - FORWARD MOMENTUM set the new standard for two year old trotting geldings at 2:05.4. Congratulations for owner Michael Andrew and driver/trainer Gordon Corey. The old record of 2:06.0 was held by CM CHEVAL in 1994

8/26 - The Stars Come Out At Windsor Fair Sunday Afternoon

8/23 - It is with a heavy heart that we report that the voice of Scarborough Downs, Hank Fenno, has passed away.

WESTBROOK - Ralph 'Hank' Fenno Jr. passed, away on Aug. 23, 2005 at his home after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was born on Oct. 11, 1952 in Portland, the son of Ralph and Helen (Donahue) Fenno.
Hank attended Buxton Schools in early years and was also a graduate of the University of Southern Maine with a degree in Criminal Justice.
After college, Hank went to work for the Department of Human Services, but within a few years he decided to follow in his father's footsteps, training race horses and announcing races. He became the charismatic voice of Scarborough Downs.
He is survived by a brother, Timothy Fenno of Falmouth; a sister, Jan Fenno of Auburn,; a niece, Jennifer of Buxton; Hank's loving, caring, special friends Janessa Solari of Gorham, and Marcia and Dennis Corcoran who came from Florida to help care for Hank during his last months. Hank had many friends and he will be sadly missed.
There will be a private memorial service for the family at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to:
Hank Fenno Scholarship Fund
c/o Doug Hutchins
1445 Alfred Road
Lyman, Maine 04002
Arrangements are under the guidance of Independent Death Care of Maine, 471 Deering Ave., Portland.
Courtesy Portland Press Herald

8/20 - Jason Bartlett wins races 3 thru 8 on the 8 race card at Scarborough Saturday night. Jason did not participate in races 1 or 2.

HEADMASTER, with James Marohn, Jr driving, wins the Walter Hight Memorial Invitational in 1:55.4

(Shelly Gilpatrick Photo)

PEMBROKE MARVEL, taking advantage of fractions cut by CURRENT CAST, set a new all age trotting track record at Skowhegan State Fair in 1:59.3. Congratulations to driver Heath Campbell, trainer Valerie Grondin and owner William Varney.

(Shelly Gilpatrick Photo)

MARIE POLO started the day off by going wire to wire and setting a new all age track record for mares in 1:57.1 for driver Shane Taggart, trainer Lonnie Lefebvre and owner Bruce Poirier.

At Freehold Raceway, Kinnear & Hutchins' MAXIMUM RETURN took advantage of two favorites going off-stride to finish second in the Yonkers Trot, the second leg of Trotting's Triple Crown. Congratulations to MAXIMUM RETURNS connections.

8/19 - The $297,816 Yonkers Trot today at Freehold Raceway has Maine connections. MAXIMUM RETURN is going out of the 2 hole with Cat Manzi driving with morning line odds of 6/1. MAXIMUM RETURN is out of the Ivan & Owen Davies Stable and is owned by Paul Kinnear and Douglas Hutchins

8/19 -Scarborough has its third purse increase this year.

8/18 - WESTRIDGE NOGOSSIP sets a new track record for three year old trotters of all sexes in 2:01.3, driven by Stephen Mahar for owner Paul Mullen & owner/trainer Doug Beckwith. The old record was held by KENTUCKY YANKEE in 1997.

8/17 - Top Pacers To Compete in Hight Invitational

8/17 - Time Line, a 10 year old son of Jate Lobell, is attempting a return to racing after taking 18 months off for breeding. He bred 24 mares in 2004, his first year in the breeding shed and another 24 mares this year. His first crop of babies have been getting very favorable reviews. During his racing career, Time Line has earned nearly $250,000 while taking a lifetime mark of 1:50.2. After easily winning his qualifier this past Monday and he will have his first official start since 2003, this Friday in Skowhegan. - Jim Hooper

8/13 - Congratulations go out to Michael McGee, who in winning his first pari mutual start in Topsham Fair today while driving MAKE A BIG SPLASH for owners Scott McGee and Lester Dancer set a new track record for four year old geldings in 1:58.4. The old record was held by PACIFIC SONATA in 1:59.3.

PEMBROKE MARVEL set a new track record for four year old gelded trotters today at Topsham Fairgrounds in 2:02.1 for driver Heath Campbell, trainer Valerie Grondin and owner William Varney. The old record of 2:05.3 was co-held by MOVING BY PASSER and CHUCKY'S PICK

8/7 - RESERVED, a four year old horse, paced the Topsham Fair track today in 2:00.3 establishing a new track record. RESERVED, driven by Jason Bartlett, is trained by Richard Bartlett and owned by Windsor Kon X Tion,

8/6 - JASON'S JIFFY, winner of this years Paul Bunyan Invitational at Bangor Raceway went north of the border on Friday night and captured the Robert McCain Memorial Invitational Pace in Woodstock N.B. in 1:54.1, establishing the fastest mile ever paced in New Brunswick on a half mile track. Congratulations to owner Brian Bickmore, trainer Randy Bickmore and driver Drew Campbell.

8/5 - Scarborough Downs has second purse increase of 2005, increasing the lower classes this time to a minimum purse of $1,300.

8/3 - ANOTHER JUDGE returns to the 3 Year Old Trotting Stakes, not having raced since leg #1 due to illness and sets a new track record at the Northern Maine Fair for 3 Year Old Colt Trotters in 2:03.2. ANOTHER JUDGE has now set six track records around the state and has only had twelve lifetime starts!

Sneaking under our radar has been POP N PAULA. This 2 year old trotting filly has won all four MSBS legs and getting stronger with each start.

7/31 -John Davidson of St. John, New Brunswick, a longtime fixture in harness racing circles on both sides of the border, recorded the 2000th win of his career at the Northern Maine Fair in Presque Isle Sunday afternoon.  Davidson has trained and driven horses in New Brunswick and Maine for over twenty-five years.  He is respected throughout Maine and the Maritimes for his skills as both a driver and trainer.
 John recorded three wins on Friday, July 29 at the NMF, leaving him one short of 2000 wins lifetime heading into Sunday’s action. Davidson reached the plateau in the fifth race aboard Exeter Exclusive in a winners-over event.  Exeter Exclusive, owned by Kermit Allen, paced the mile in 1:59.3, getting by the pace-setting Charlie Burke, driven by Dirk Duncan, with a big brush at the three-quarter pole.  Symbolic Gesture, with Jason Bartlett in the bike, was third.
Davidson was recognized by track announcer Lloyd Johnson, and was joined in the winner’s circle by other drivers, trainers, and grooms for a special cooler presentation, immediately after reaching the milestone. - Norm Trask

7/24 - Jason's Jiffy Prevails in Paul Bunyan Invitational

7/23 - Stars Photo Wins Ricci Memorial at Scarborough

7/22 - A Pair of Streaks Continue at Scarborough

7/21 - Please note that the 1st leg of the MHRPB Agricultural Fair Late Closer has been changed to Thursday, August 4 at Northern Maine Fair from the previous date of Wednesday, August 3.

7/21 - Paul Bunyan Pace Headlines Closing Day At Bangor

7/20 - Joe Ricci Memorial Trot Set For Saturday At Scarborough

7/17 - Lifetime Marks Abound At Scarborough

7/16 - Baton and Jakes Skyhawk Continue to Roll

7/14 - Pop N Paula Doubles Up At Scarborough

7/13 - National Driving Tour to Visit Maine

7/10 - New England Sulky Championship Nominations for 2005 Yearling Payments are due July 15, 2005. Any New England bred Yearling is eligible. For information, please contact Donald Marean, 233 Bonny Eagle Road, Hollis, ME 04042 or call (207) 727-5527

7/10 - Varney has a big day at Bangor

7/10 - SAMMY NEUTRON breaks the Bangor Raceway track record for three year old gelding while winning a division of the Maine Sire Stakes in 1:58.0. The previous record was set last year by KDK SAMSTOWN in 1:58.1. Congratulations to owners Arlene Shaw & Alice Bonenfant, trainer Richard Bartlett, and driver Jason Bartlett.

7/9 - Maine Breeders Stakes Continue

7/6 - Perfection On The Line Saturday At Scarborough

7/3 - Sire Stakes Continue at Scarborough Downs

7/2 - ANOTHER JUDGE starts the sire stakes with a new track record at Bangor Raceway for three year old colts in 2:03.0. Last year ANOTHER JUDGE set four track records during his short two year old campaign, including the state record for all two year old trotters. Congratulations to owners Ivan Davies, Douglas Hutchins, Paul Kinnear, trainer Owen Davies and driver Ivan Davies. The old record was held by GAELIC RAPHAEL on 7/16/1993 in 2:03.1

7/2 - Maine Breeders' Stakes continue at Bangor

6/30 - Gray Impresses, Sire Stakes Continue

6/27 - Sire Stakes and Record Mile Top Bangor Card

6/26 - AUNT EMMA breaks the Mares All Age Track Record at Bangor Raceway in 1:56.1. This was the fourth fastest mile of all time for all mares in the State of Maine, with all of the faster miles recorded at Windsor Fair. Congratulations to owner Bruce Bridgham, trainer Fred Ward, Jr. and driver Jason Bartlett.

6/22 - Pine Tree Fair Classics Late Closers Announced!

6/22 - Maine Sire Stakes Season To Begin Sunday

6/18 - Bangor Raceway announces the Pace of the Year

6/17 - Current Cast sets seasonal mark at Scarborough Downs

6/16 - Dickison Final Heads Sunday Card At Bangor

6/15 - Fastest Miles of the Year: