Vernon Downs clarifies position on embattled Lago Casino project

Owner makes official statement on behalf of entertainment complex

Vernon, N.Y. - November 19, 2015 - While the Lago Casino project continues to be debated, Vernon Downs' owner Jeff Gural has released a statement clarifying their official position on the matter. This comes just after a minority owner of Vernon Downs, made a statement to the media earlier this week backing Lago.

"Mr. Greenburg owns an extremely small percentage of Vernon Downs, is not involved in the daily operation of the property and his unsubstantiated statements and opinions do not reflect that of Vernon Downs, Tioga Downs or American Racing and Entertainment, LLC," said owner Jeff Gural. "We want to let the media and public know that we have not taken a position on the matter involving the Lago Casino. We trust that state regulators will determine the appropriate course of action on the project once all factors are considered. Obviously cannibalization is a concern but for the moment our focus is on the Tioga Downs expansion project in anticipation of the full gaming license.  We are continuing to effectively operate Vernon Downs to best position it for the future and as winter sets in we hope the new indoor garage will make it easier for our customers to visit.  Members of the media are welcome to contact me at any time if they would like a comment on American Racing and Entertainment or its associated properties," Gural added.

Tioga Downs recently broken ground on its own expansion in anticipation of receiving the state's final full casino gaming license.  The official gaming licenses are expected to be issued to the four New York State Gaming Facility Location Board recommended locations at the end of this year.

In addition to live harness racing, Vernon Downs offers 767 of the most popular slot machines. A variety of eateries are also part of the entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY, and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY. Tioga Downs is beginning the process of transforming into a full casino gaming resort to serve the Southern Tier and beyond as well as expanding its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs and donated millions to nonprofit organizations. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.

Vernon Downs prepares for close of live racing season

November 21 event features "war horse" finale, fireworks

Vernon, N.Y. - November 16, 2015 - Another exciting season of racing is coming to a close at Vernon Downs on Saturday, November 21. Fans are invited to cheer on a veteran horse expected to make one last career race on this final night. Fourteen-year-old "My Fella" is required to retire at age 15 and will race against other "war horses" who are at least ten years old and have amassed more than $100,000 in career earnings over at least 200 starts.

Live racing begins with a post time of 6:45 pm. Several special promotions are planned, including a Snow Camouflage Long Sleeve T-Shirt giveaway (while supplies last). A Fall Fever Handicapping Contest will allow guests to enter to win up to $250 by accumulating the largest "mythical bank account." Fans should arrive early to join the contest, as all entries must be received prior to the start of live racing.

Lastly, guests are invited to stay after the end of racing that evening and enjoy a spectacular fireworks display marking the conclusion of the 2015 racing season.

"We want to make the last night of racing something special for our loyal fans," said owner Jeff Gural. "Those who have never been to a race are also more than welcome to join in the special events we have planned to wrap up another exciting season."

In addition to live harness racing, Vernon Downs offers 767 of the most popular slot machines. A variety of eateries are also part of the entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY, and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY. Tioga Downs is beginning the process of transforming into a full casino gaming resort to serve the Southern Tier and beyond as well as expanding its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs and donated millions to nonprofit organizations. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.

Vernon Downs to simulcast final career race for Triple Crown winner

Fans to watch, wager on American Pharoah’s “Grand Slam” attempt

Vernon, N.Y. – October 21, 2015 – Famed racehorse American Pharoah made headlines earlier this year by capturing the coveted Triple Crown title for the first time since 1978. Later this month, Vernon Downs will simulcast the three-year-old horse’s final attempt to make history when he is expected to vie for the Grand Slam title at the Breeders Cup World Thoroughbred Championship. American Pharoah earned the Triple Crown title earlier this year after sweeping the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness and the Belmont Stakes.

Fans can watch and wager on American Pharoah Saturday, October 31, as Vernon Downs simulcasts the Breeders Cup Classic live from Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington, KY. The races begin at 11:00 a.m. leading up to the $5 million main event featuring American Pharoah. Post time for the Classic is 5:35 p.m., which is also expected to be the final race of the horse’s career.

“We are so excited to be able to bring this event that could rewrite racing history to our fans, said owner Jeff Gural. “Regardless of the outcome, we know it will be a fun and exciting day for everyone involved.”

Following American Pharoah’s race, Vernon Downs will present live harness racing at a special early post time of 6:00 p.m. The live program will be highlighted by the $500,000 Kindergarten Classic Finals for the top two-year-old trotters in harness racing. Fans can also enter for a chance to win up to $250 in a special Halloween night Ghosts and Goblins game.

Live harness racing at Vernon Downs continues throughout the fall. During October, live racing takes place Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays starting at 6:45 p.m. (except for October 31 as noted above). In November, live racing takes place Friday and Saturday nights starting at 6:45 p.m. through closing night of November 21.

In addition to live harness racing, Vernon Downs offers 767 of the most popular slot machines. A variety of eateries are also part of the entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY, and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY. Tioga Downs is the lone bidder for the state’s final full gaming license in the Southern Tier region. Once awarded, Tioga Downs will expand its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.

Vernon Down publicizes VLT payback percentage

Invites area casinos to do the same

Vernon, N.Y. – October 2, 2015 – Vernon Downs is proud of its 90% plus year-to-date payback on its video lottery terminals and wants everyone to know about it. The casino is launching an ad campaign to educate the community about the high rate at which its VLTs pay players.

“We want our guests to feel confident that they have excellent odds of winning when they visit Vernon Downs,” said owner Jeff Gural. “In fact, we invite other area casinos to share the payout information for their properties, so people can make an informed decision about the best place for them to gamble.”

In August 2015 alone, Vernon Downs paid more than $40.5 million in winnings on video game machines. This is over 91% of the overall credits wagered, which totaled $44.5 million.

Vernon Downs operates 767 video lottery terminals featuring in-house progressives, Video Poker and hundreds of popular games, ranging in denomination from a penny to $5. Several new games were added just this summer. Guests who visit Vernon Downs can take advantage of special gaming promotions by joining the player’s club. Becoming a “Your Club” member is free and provides access to rewards such as invitations to tournaments, parties and special VIP concerts.


In addition to its video gaming machines, Vernon Downs offers live harness racing, concerts and other entertainment. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY, and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY. Tioga Downs is the lone bidder for the state’s final full gaming license in the Southern Tier region. If awarded, Tioga Downs will expand its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.

DERBY FESTIVITIES, TRIO OF OPENS HEADLINE VERNON WEEKEND

While a trio of $10,000 Open events and second-round splits of the Catherine Burton and Anthony Farina late-closing series headline the on-track action this weekend at Vernon Downs, all eyes will be pointed to Louisville, Kentucky for the 141st Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs this Saturday (May 2).

In Central New York, Vernon Downs will carry on many of the same traditions linked with the Run for the Roses, including mint juleps and a Derby hat contest. Fans may register for the hat contest beginning at 3:00 p.m. with judging to take place at 4:30 p.m. The first place prize is $500.

Vernon Downs opens early for simulcasting on Saturday, accommodating Churchill's 10:30 a.m. first post.  Throughout the day, mint juleps will be available in addition to the standard complement of legal beverages, and the wearers of the finest Kentucky Derby hats will win betting vouchers.

The live 13-race card at Vernon Downs will kick off at a special early post time of 5:10 p.m., with a break for the Derby (post time 6:34) after the first few live races.  Prior to the Derby, one fan will be selected to win a $1,000 win bet on a horse of their choosing in the Derby.  Last year, one lucky fan took home $3,500 after California Chrome proved triumphant.

For full details on the Derby Day festivities at Vernon Downs, visit vernondowns.com/racing.

A Penny Earned headlines Vernon opening night

Thursday, April 16, 2015 - by James Witherite, Vernon Downs Racing Media

Vernon, NY---Trotters and distaffers headline Friday (April 17) evening's Opening Night program at Vernon Downs, with 21-time winner A Penny Earned making his return to the Miracle Mile in the featured $10,000 Open Trot.

The six-year-old Conway Hall gelding proved victorious in 7 of 26 races last year, staying close to trainer George Ducharme's central New York home base throughout. He took a seasonal mark of 1:53.3 while earning just over $60,000, and he's reunited with his regular driver from last season, defending Vernon Downs driving champion Chris Lems.

Lems has nine drives on the ten-race card, with three of them for last season's top trainer David Dewhurst. The pair will look to establish themselves atop their respective leader boards with Kyler's Valentine (race 1, 7-2 morning line), Ziegler Hanover (race 2, 5-2 ML), and Pounce K (race 6, 6-1 ML).

Fans are encouraged to arrive well before first post time of 6:45 p.m. EDT, as racing calendar magnets and T-shirts will be distributed starting one hour before the first race (while supplies last). Arriving fans can also meet their favorite drivers prior to the races, and all are welcome to remain for the post-racing fireworks display.

Vernon Downs readies for 2015 opener

Monday, April 13, 2015 - by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media

Vernon, NY --- Vernon Downs opens the curtain on their 2015 live harness racing season later this week, as Friday (April 17) marks the first of 90 programs over the critically acclaimed seven-eighths-mile stonedust track.

"We're excited to kick off another season of harness racing at the home of the Miracle Mile," said Jason M. Settlemoir, Vice President of Racing at Vernon Downs. "It's been a long winter, but we're ready for the upcoming meet, featuring world-class stakes races, the New York Sire Stakes, and a slew of fun promotions for our loyal fans."

Fans will be welcomed back to the home of the Miracle Mile with race date magnets and T-shirts given away at the main entrance beginning at 5:45 p.m. (while supplies last). Fans will also be able to meet their favorite Vernon Downs drivers before the races. During the races, six lucky fans will be selected to win a $50 wager on the house, and after the last race, all are invited to enjoy a spectacular fireworks display.

The first Horseplay Car Giveaway finalist will be chosen on opening night as well (weather permitting), as the popular season-long contest returns with a Volkswagen Jetta on the line. Fans can earn entries every live race night through Sept. 7, when one lucky winner will drive away with the new car.

Later in the season, Vernon Downs will again host the trotting divisions of the Empire Breeders Classic (June 21), along with a number of top trotting and distaff events.

Stakes action continues with the Zweig Memorial Trot (for 3-year-olds) slated for July 26, while the Aug. 21 card boasts a trio of top events -- the Crawford Farms Trot, the Muscle Hill Mares Trot, and the Artiscape Open Mare Pace.

As the weather cools down, Vernon Downs will once again host the New York Sire Stakes Excelsior Series finals on Sept. 19, the Simpson Stakes for 2-year-olds on Oct. 16, and the Kindergarten Classic trotting finals on Oct. 31.

As last year’s major open stakes were won by Dan Patch champions Father Patrick, Shake It Cerry, Sebastian K, and Rocklamation, the Miracle Mile is sure to once again host a number of present and future world champions throughout the year.

Additionally, Vernon Downs will play host to a full complement of New York Sire Stakes preliminary events for 2- and 3-year-old pacers and trotters.

Post time for the opening night program is slated for 6:45 p.m. (EDT). Racing will take place on Friday and Saturday evenings through closing night, Nov. 21, with Sunday afternoon cards added from mid-May through the end of August and Wednesday evening cards added in September and October. For a complete schedule, visit www.vernondowns.com/racing.

PRESS RELEASE: Harness racing season kicks off in two weeks at Vernon Downs

Media invited for special preview night with live racing

Vernon, N.Y. – April 7, 2015 – Vernon Downs is preparing to usher in spring with the start of live harness racing scheduled to begin in about two weeks. The 62^nd season of live harness racing begins April 17^th with a post time of 6:45 pm. Guests will receive the traditional race date T-shirt and schedule magnet (free while supplies last). A spectacular fireworks show will commence after the last race, at approximately 10 pm.

Other highlights of opening night include the chance to get to know Vernon Downs drivers through a special meet and greet held in the hour before post. Guests can also sign up to win a $50 free roll, and six winners receive $50 to wager entirely on a designated race and keep any winnings.

“After a long, cold winter, we can’t think of a better way to ring in spring than to join in the activities surrounding the start to live racing,” said Scott Freeman, Sr. Vice President & General Manager. “And that’s just the beginning—the fun and excitement continues all season long with creative promotions, contests and events.”

The second big event of the 2015 season is Kentucky Derby Day on May 2. Guests can spend the day at Vernon Downs and celebrate southern style while watching and betting on the Derby. Those who wish to dawn lavish hats can enter a special contest, and everyone who attends can enter to win $1,000 Derby Dream Bet. Live harness racing follows that evening.

Later in the season, the popular Camel and Ostrich racing return on June 13, typically drawing one of the largest crowds of the year! Two special promotions, the Horseplay Car Giveaway and Million Dollar Ball Drop, continue all season long. Vernon Downs will also host several top-class stakes races throughout the season, including the Crawford Farms Trot, Zweig Memorial and the Artiscape Pace.

Media Night: Members of the media are invited to a special preview of the 2015 season at Vernon Downs on Tuesday, April 14^th beginning at 6 pm. Members of track management and horsemen will be available for interviews, and additional information on the facility and the upcoming season will be highlighted. The media will also have a chance to see live qualifying races beginning at 6:45 pm that evening. Photography and videography is welcomed and encouraged.

In addition to live harness racing, Vernon Downs offers video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY, and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY. Gural is in the process of preparing a new proposal to apply for the state’s final full gaming license. Once awarded, Tioga Downs will expand its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.