Off and Racing at Scarborough Downs

Scarborough, Maine – The trackside parking lots were filled to capacity as anxious horseman and curious fans gathered to witness the birth of the 2007 harness racing season at Scarborough Downs today.

At 10:30 sharp the first group of horses began the long awaited parade to the post, and as the field gathered in behind the starting gate a trickle of thoroughbred fans left their televised simulcasts from Dubai to venture trackside to witness the live spectacle at the seaside oval.

Springtime Alibi, a game first over winner for driver Joey Mosher, earned that first trip to The Downs’ winners circle this year – and therefore became the first victorious horse to cover the newly revamped Scarborough Downs racing strip.

Off season renovations to the track included removal of the 36 year old hub-rail and lighting system and the installation of a brake-away infield fence and pylon system. The new course drew positive responses from the racing community.

The fastest clocking of the day belonged to LLYR as pilot Kevin Switzer, Jr negotiated the mile in 2:01 flat for the mighty KDK Standardbred stable.

First up from the 3/8th’s on, Switzer gamely engaged Wally Watson and the top class mare, Sassy Sarah in a stirring front end duel. Both contestants crossed the wire a mere nose apart; apparently well in hand and well pointed toward the regular season.

Qualifying races will continue to be carded each Tuesday and Saturday morning, leading up to the April 14th Grand Opening of the 2007 meeting at Maine’s Showplace of harness racing – Scarborough Downs.

Scarborough Downs proudly features live harness action each Monday, Tuesday and Saturday afternoon with first post scheduled for 3:45 pm (EDT). The popular Sunday matinees get underway quite promptly at 12:05 pm.