Cammie Haughton Meets with Yonkers Raceway Drivers

Newly-appointed Yonkers Raceway Director of Racing Cammie Haughton met with the raceway’s drivers prior to last Saturday’s (December 16) racing program as Yonkers wrapped up its 2017 season and looked toward the 2018 campaign.

The hour-long meeting included many subjects, all designed to improve the product and thus, increase handle.

“I spoke with the drivers about making the racing more exciting and competitive,” Haughton said. “More movement and no more holes, which should eliminate slow quarters. That’s the first thing I want to see.”

Other areas addressed including having Yonkers’ off times away from other tracks, improving the track’s video and graphics presentation, and perhaps changing to a staggered starting gate with even more of a ‘slant’ than the one currently in use, giving outside-drawing horses a better chance.

There are also plans to improve Empire City Bets, the Raceway’s ADW portal.

“Everyone I’ve spoken with is on the same page,” Haughton said. “They understand Yonkers has the best harness product, and they want to put out of the best possible presentation.”

The 2018 season, which is scheduled to begin with a Sunday, January 7th matinee (post time TBA, dates pending approval the New York State Gaming Commission), may also find Yonkers doing away with the passing lane (requested and pending NYSGC approval).

“The elimination of the passing lane and more aggressive driving are going to make racing better,” Haughton said. “The purse money is too good for the racing not to be contested at the highest level. Management expects it and our fans expect it.”

“We appreciate the continued support of our racing patrons, both on- and off-track, and Yonkers welcomes their feedback as we get ready for 2018,” Raceway COO Bob Galterio said.