Two Bronx assembly members were among the four victors at the annual Legislative Pace harness racing event among state lawmakers on Friday, Sept. 20, at Yonkers Raceway.
Bronx Assembly Members Amanda Septimo (District 84) and Eddie Gibbs (District 68) both won their respective heats at the event, hosted by Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts and the Standardbred Owners Association of New York (SOANY).
Each race, which consisted of two turns around the historic one-half-mile track at Yonkers Raceway, involved New York State legislators holding the reins in double-seated jog carts alongside professional harness drivers.
In addition to Septimo and Gibbs, the winners of the other two heats were Long Island Assembly Members Jacob Blumencranz (District 15) and Michaelle Solages (District 22).
Those who took part in the Legislative Pace got a firsthand look at the over $1 million investment MGM Resorts has made into the 125-year-old track in an effort to enhance the racing experience. The first track upgrades in more than 15 years include a resurfaced and regraded track that raised the turns as much as a foot, upgraded track lighting to an LED system, a resurfaced paddock and a new state-of-the-art tote board with video capabilities.
“Not only has the Legislative Pace become a highly anticipated and fun evening for legislators, but more importantly this event allows members of the State Assembly and State Senate to experience racing firsthand and learn more about its importance to agriculture and the state’s economy,” said Joseph Faraldo, president of the Standardbred Owners Association, which represents horsemen at Yonkers Raceway. “Our industry creates tens of thousands of jobs and generates billions of dollars each year, and we are thrilled that so many legislators want to be involved in harness racing and learn more.”
“The annual Legislative Pace event presents legislators with the opportunity for lighthearted, friendly competition along with the thrill of close interactions with the horses,” state Sen. Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. said. “As the Chair of the Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, I appreciate having the opportunity to bring attention to the harness racing industry as part of our steadfast commitment to meeting the needs of the horses, riders, trainers, and owners.”
