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.