How I got hooked on Harness Racing.

[pugdog1]

Summer nights late 70s 80s at Sportsman’s Park. Paisley, Busse, Banks, Dennis. Great times!!!

[sidetracker]

Actually, two points of discovery: First, when the OTB Show from Monticello came on at 11:00 p.m. in 1971. I was sixteen. Then six years later, when I wanted to become a driver, and had no knowledge of how to start. Saw an ad for The Max Brewer School of Harness Racing. Foolishly paid $375 for it. But, it got me in the barn door. And when the "class" went to Kazmeier's Wallkill Farm, and I jogged my first horse, Shadydale Adican, it was euphoric! An amazing rush. Of course, I soon learned I had no talent for driving, and became a groom, then small track trainer for a number of years. Mixed feelings about the choice. But that first jog.....

[Papillon]

Sunday nights at Brandywine late 70s

double headers Keystone then pizza then Liberty Bell also late 70s


 

[Harness racer]

Car broke down in front of the track years ago.  I went in to use the phone.   

[Bernie Madoff]

Car broke down in front of the track years ago.  I went in to use the phone.   

 

[kooter for hipin]

Summer nights late 70s 80s at Sportsman’s Park. Paisley, Busse, Banks, Dennis. Great times!!!

...and the original Redman, Bob Farrington, and maybe Gene Vladingham.   

[Grandstand Handicapper]

I was about 15 years old as I stood by the rail at the "Mighty M". Spent all my summers since I was born at a amazing bungalow colony about 7 miles from the track. As I watched the post parade, I yelled to one of my favorite drivers Jim Grundy, "Hey Jim, who do you like?". He looked at me and yelled, "Cappello said bet the #6". I ran up to the grandstand to tell my dad. He's looked at his program seeing Dan Cappello driving a horse named "Shadydale Yankios". Small world. He was one of the first horses owned by Jeff Gural. I begged my dad to bet my $5 allowance on the horse. He wanted to teach me a lesson. I'd lose my allowance. No milkey ways or ice cream the whole week. So he made the bet. Shadydale Yankios won and paid $12.60. For better or worse, I was hooked for good. Thanks Jimmy Grundy. More than that, thanks Dad. I miss you. Rest In Peace.

Very nice. Thanks for sharing this.

[Grandstand Handicapper]

Car broke down in front of the track years ago.  I went in to use the phone.   

 

Very funny. Thanks for the laugh.