The Meadowlands has reported an enthusiastic response to the February payment for the track's signature event, the $700,000 (estimated) Meadowlands Pace.
For the first payment for three-year-old colts and geldings, 55 sustained eligibility and two paid the $7,500 supplement for a total of 57 paid in. This represents a 27 per cent increase over the 2022 February figure.
Among the more renowned are Dan Patch and O'Brien Award winner Stockade Seelster, Breeders Crown winner Ammo, Governor's Cup king El Rey and Pennsylvania Sire Stakes champ Fulton, who came aboard via the supplemental payment.
The $175,000 (estimated) filly companion to The Pace, known as the Mistletoe Shalee, also had a significant bump of 33 per cent year over year with 32 fillies paid in. All the girls are RSVP'd for "The Biggest Party in Harness Racing" on the evening of Saturday, July 15 including Canadian debutante Sylvia Hanover, who completed the difficult Dan Patch / O'Brien Award double, and talented freshman filly Twin B Joe Fresh.
Overall, the Feb. 15 payments for the marquee stakes at The Meadowlands came in slightly over the 2022 results.
The lists of nominees are being prepared and will be posted on the track website when available.
(With files from Meadowlands)