Fair Series Shows Promise To Be Best Ever

RUS NY releases details for 2019 season 

The excitement of racing under saddle at New York State county fairs will continue this summer and looks to be bigger than ever. 

RUS New York, an organization that helps promote the sport and the versatility of Standardbreds, is excited to announce its sixth fair series. Races will begin on Sunday, June 16 at Goshen Historic Track and conclude with the final at Monticello Raceway Thursday, Sept. 5.

Thanks to the series’ flagship sponsor, The New York Sire Stakes, at least 10 race legs will be held with a culmination of a championship final race. Points earned along the way will determine final entries.  

“The goal is to have higher purses this year in hopes of getting more participation,” RUS NY President Michelle Miller said. “We have worked hard at getting sponsorships and conducting fundraisers to try and get funds where we can confidently provide purses that are more comparable to the harness program. We want to get more horses on the track.”

Miller said there is another significant incentive to boost participation this season. She said three sponsors, Oneida Veterinary Associates, PLLC, Tioga and Vernon Downs, pulled together to offer a $4,000 rider award challenge and funds will be distributed based on points earned at the end of the series. Points will be awarded to riders regardless of horse(s) ridden throughout the series.

“Riders will need to participate in at least five races leading up to the final to qualify so it will hopefully help fill fields, “ said Miller. “We cannot thank these sponsors enough for providing this opportunity to our riders because owners get purse money so this may help riders get involved and cover costs.” 

More information about the challenge will be released by the group. 

The series will be for trotters only this year as it has been in the past, according to Miller. 

“The hope is to offer some pace races this year since the USTA officially approved a rule allowing this,” Miller said. “We could eventually possibly have races with horses of both gaits, chose to do a separate series or continue to offer just pace races on their own; we just have to figure out what will work best. We hope to use this season to  see how much interest there will be. It will also give those not yet licensed who want to get involved time to do so and become members of our organization. Having more races means more funds which takes more manpower.”

Fair Series conditions can be found on the RUS NY website, rus-newyork.com. Membership is free and open to anyone as being a resident of New York is not a requirement. For more information visit, http://www.rus-newyork.com/membership.html. 

RUS New York is also working on organizing some demonstrations to promote the versatility of the breed and have some fairs on board to add to the race days. The group’s website is the best resource for event dates and information. 

Official dates and locations for the series are as follows:

• Sunday, June 16 ---- Goshen Historical Track (1p.m. post)

• Thursday, June 20 ---- Afton Fair (noon post) 

• Tuesday, July 16 --- “Little World’s Fair" in Hemlock (noon post)

• Tuesday, July 23 --- Oneida County in Boonville (11AM Post)

• Tuesday, July 30 --- Otsego County Fair in Morris (noon post)

• Monday, Aug. 5 --- Tioga County in Owego (noon post)

• Tuesday, Aug. 6 --- Schoharie County Sunshine Fair in Cobleskill (noon post) 

• Monday, Aug. 12 --- Wayne County in Palmyra (noon post)

• Tuesday, Aug. 13 --- Steuben County in Bath (noon post)

• Tuesday, Aug. 20 --- Tompkins County in Trumansburg (noon post)

RUS New York is offering a sponsorship opportunity that will allow supporters to be a part of the winning experience. For $300 a sponsor can get a business logo or saying on a cooler and will be invited to present it as an award to each fair winner. The group needs at least a three week notice to make this happen so if interested contact Miller at mnmiller84@gmail.com. 

Sponsors can advertise in every fair program for as little as $200. There is a June 1 deadline for maximum sponsorship benefits. For other sponsorship opportunities contact Cathy Gearwar at fourgears@shoreham.net or by phone at (802) 537-2145. A PayPal account has been set up where people can make secure donations. To learn more, visit http://www.rus-newyork.com/become-a-sponsor.html.

Other ways to support the group is donations such as tickets to places and events, gift certificates, gift baskets and other items that can be used to raise money at various fundraising events.

What is Racing Under Saddle: 

Also known as Monte Racing, RUS, is a hybrid between harness racing and 

thoroughbred racing. The sport consists of a rider atop a Standardbred in a saddle instead of pulling a sulky.  RUS is an exciting part of international standardbred racing and is conducted daily at most European tracks as part of their regular pari-mutuel wagering programs.

The Fair Series is organized by RUS NY, an organization that helps coordinate and promote under saddle races across the state. The main goal is to promote the unique sport,  educate about the versatility of the Standardbred breed as both a racing and a riding horse and to help Standardbreds find great homes after they finish their days on the track.

To keep up on RUS NY happenings follow the group at:

• Facebook.com/RUSNYSeries
• Twitter.com/RUS_NewYork
• http://rus-newyork.blogspot.com
• Rus-newyork.com

RUS NY To Kick Off Season At Goshen Historic Track

Racing Under Saddle at Goshen Historical Track 2018. 

Get ready for the excitement because racing will start earlier than normal this year. Mark your calendars as RUS New York kicks off its season at Goshen Historical Track. 

There will be two races held at the historical oval this season. The first will be a part of the 2019 Fair Series and the second will be a conditioned race. 

“We are excited to be able to offer these races as it provides a huge opportunity to show our unique sport and the versatility of the breed in front of very large audiences. Racing at the historic track is unlike racing anywhere else. Fans are there because they love horse racing and you can hear them cheer the entire time you’re out there,” RUS NY President Michelle Miller said. 

Rail Road Lane is rearing to go before racing.

Conditions for the races are as follows: 

Races are being funded by RUS NY and will follow the organization’s rules and regulations. Riders must be a member of RUS NY. (Anyone can join for free by e-mailing rusnewyorkseries@gmail.com).

Rider requirements for both races: Riders must hold a current active RUS license with the USTA and have at least one charted line behind the gate in 2019. Riders will need to sign a waiver and are subject to a breathalyzer. Riders must participate in fundraisers and or sponsorship funding with a minimum of $500 raised to participate in any RUS NY event.

Horse requirement for both races: Horses must be 3 years old or older to participate (can be older than 14).  Horses must show a charted RUS line on the trot gait in 2019. The horse does not need to go with another horse. If there are more than 8 entries those showing to be most competitive will be used. 

Father’s Day Matinee Race: Sunday, June 16 

Will serve as the first leg of the RUS NY Fair Series. See rus-newyork.com for fair series conditions. 

All paperwork (W-9, Purse authorization) needs to be sent to RUS NY at 725 County Highway 45 Milford NY 13807 no later than Friday, June 21 to be paid. Must finish race to get purse money.

Entries- will be taken by RUS NY not Goshen Track so DO NOT ENTER ONLINE or CALL THE RACE OFFICE. Entries will be taken on Thursday, June 13th from 4 to 6 p.m.  Call (607) 316-8268. Entries can be placed via text, but if a confirmation is not sent back be sure to call. 

Estimated purse of $1,500 to be paid out per Fair Series conditions. 

Grand Circuit RUS Race:  Thursday, July 4

Conditions: 5,000 P/Cs last three starts in 2019 at any parimutuel track. Horses with no harness starts will be eligible based on RUS qualifying times (must go 2:16 but no faster than 2:02 on any size track).

This race will go for an estimated purse of $2,000 to be paid out:

5 or more starters 50, 25, 12, 8, 5 percent

4 starters 50, 25, 15, 10 percent

3 starters 50, 30, 20 percent

All W-9s and purse authorizations must be sent to RUS NY at 725 County Highway 45 Milford NY 13807 no later than Monday, July 8. All RUS NY rules and regulations will be used- see rus-newyork.com for more details.Trainers and owners of horses that participate in the June 16 race will get first preference into the Grand Circuit race if there are more horses entered than can fit behind the gate. Riders who participate in the June race will also get preference if not on the same mount. 

Entries- Will be taken by RUS NY not Goshen Track so DO NOT ENTER ONLINE or CALL THE RACE OFFICE. Entries will be taken on Friday, June 28 from 4 to 6 p.m.  Call (607) 316-8268. Entries can be placed via text, but if a confirmation is not sent back be sure to call. 

NO HORSE will be allowed to race, or be permitted to enter the grounds of Goshen Historic Track, without the following:

1. PROOF OF NEGATIVE COGGINS (EIA) TEST, within twelve (12) months of race date.

2. PROOF OF RABIES VACCINATION, within twelve (12) months of race date and not less than 14 days prior to race date.

NON-NEW YORK STATE HORSES: ALL HORSES ENTERING NEW YORK STATE MUST HAVE ALL OF THE ABOVE AND A CERTIFICATE OF VETERINARY INSPECTION (INTERSTATE HEALTH CHART) ISSUED WITHIN 30 DAYS OF ARRIVAL ON THE GROUNDS OF GOSHEN HISTORIC TRACK.

To keep up on RUS NY happenings follow the group at:

• Facebook.com/RUSNYSeries
• Twitter.com/RUS_NewYork
• http://rus-newyork.blogspot.com
• Rus-newyork.com

Horse Show Fundraisers Planned

RUS New York has a few horse show fundraisers planned. 

The first, Rocking S Ranch Fun Show, will be held Saturday, April 20 at 2434 State Highway 205 in Mount Vision, NY. The show should have something for everyone as it will include flat classes (hunter and western) as well as gaming. Registration will start at 8 a.m. The show will start at 9 a.m. with gaming to start no sooner than noon or directly following flat classes. 

Parking will be at the storage building next to the farm as there is not a lot of parking directly at the site. Participants may tack and ride to the show across a field that is in between the two properties. Some stalls will be available, but not a lot, so they will be provided first come first serve. Horses can be provided for use. Contact Codie Smith at (607) 267-4328 for more details.

Food will be provided by 4-H members.

Members of RUS NY are hoping to put on a Racing Under Saddle demonstration either during intermission or directly after show. A table will be set up for promotional purposes with merchandise for sale.

Link to event page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/576341322878432/

The second will be held Sunday, May 19 at Pure Country Campground in New Berlin, N.Y. 
Adress: 176 Kelly Rd, New Berlin, New York 13411
Link to event info on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1136068309886724/?active_tab=discussion

The third is a three-day event at Pure Country Campground. The Labor Day Weekend fundraiser will be held from Saturday, Aug. 31 to Monday, Sept 2. Be sure to check out the gaming events as they are a hoot. Spectators welcome as you are certainly in for a laugh. Events for non-riders as well. The group is looking for vendors for this event as well as donations for prizes and raffles. 

Link to Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/2238310956415501/

Link to game day event: https://1drv.ms/w/s!Ar1fYjhi6_lhggcy6wVPl8qPLKO7

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RUS NY to host Derby Night at the Races event

Chris Tully photo: RUS NY riders battle through the turn at Monticello.

By Chris Tully for RUS NY

Goshen, NY – The Racing Under Saddle series of New York is proud to host their inaugural Derby Night at the Races event on (Saturday) May 4 in Orange County, NY, the Cradle of the Trotter.

The fundraiser is an audience-participation event where actual races are shown on multiple televisions and guests are given the chance to “wager” on the outcome of eight pre-recorded horse races and win prizes.

The event starts at 6 pm, and guests will also be able to watch the 145th Run for the Roses live from Churchill Downs, which is slated for a 6:50 pm post time.

Party-goers are encouraged to wear Kentucky Derby-themed attire and there will be prizes for the derby best hat, best dressed, as well as a host of great door prizes.

To be held at G.W. American Burgers in Chester, NY, the multi-media facility is well-equipped to host the fun and excitement of a horse racing-themed affair which is geared toward adults and equine enthusiasts.

Tickets are $25 each or $40 per couple and seating is limited.  

Advance ticket purchase is necessary, and can be reserved by contacting Vanessa Karlewicz at (call or text) 914-588-3104 or thru Facebook messenger.

RUS NY is a group of passionate equestrians that are collectively committed to organizing and promoting under saddle races for Standardbreds across the state of New York, including events held in conjunction with various New York Fair Stakes races.

For more information about RUS NY go to: rus-newyork.com

RUS NY Seeks Sponsors & Product

RUS New York highly relies on sponsorship funds to be a success. The organization is reaching out for support before the race season begins so that businesses and individuals get the most out of their buck. 

Where else can one get so much advertisement and promotion for so little money? The answer is nowhere. 

What you get for your buck:

• For as little as $100 you will be provided advertisement on our website. 
• For just $200 or more you will get mention in all promotions such as race programs. (There are generally 9 fair races with about 200 programs distributed at each) 
• For $500 or more you will be provided everything above as well as a feature spot on our homepage. (we will link your website promotions to your website or Facebook page if provided)

If interested in sponsoring a specific race and being named on a cooler or having something special done, arrangements can be made. 

Become a part of the winning experience and sponsor a race by having your logo or business name printed on a cooler. You can present the cooler or we can have someone do it on your behalf. We Must have the sponsorship form 3 weeks before the date of the race.  For more information, contact Michelle Miller at mnmiller84@gmail.com or (607)643-8047. 
Price: $300 
$100 discount if you take advantage of our $500 group sponsorship opportunity. 

The goal is to have a sponsor for each race where the sponsor will be given the opportunity to be a part of the action by providing them with the chance to do a winner circle presentation. 

We realize that it is not always feasible to donate money and we welcome product donations that can be used for prizes or fundraising purposes. RUS NY also has a link, http://www.rus-newyork.com/sponsorship-fundraising.html,  where donations can be made via PayPal. 

The group is maximizing exposure by including all sponsors in all forms of promotion that we do for the season. The earlier you get on board, the more exposure you will receive. 

New this year: All sponsorships received by June will be placed on a display board that will be presented at RUS NY events. 

Visit http://www.rus-newyork.com/become-a-sponsor.html for more information and to download a sponsorship form. Please feel free to contact RUS NY Sponsorship Director, Cathy Gearwar, at fourgears@shoreham.net or by phone at (802) 537-2145 with any questions and to discuss what we can do for you. We are willing to promote events, sales and other happenings and news for our sponsors. The goal is to reach as many people as we can. 

RUS NY was formed in early 2014 in response to the growing interest in the unique sport of racing under saddle. RUS, also known as Monté racing internationally, is a hybrid between harness racing and thoroughbred racing. The non-profit organization was created to help organize and promote under saddle races for Standardbreds across the state of New York including fairs. Our group promotes the Standardbred breed as a riding and sport horse, beyond just the sport of racing. One of our goals is to show people how versatile the horses are and hope that will help rehome them once their racing careers are done. Visit our website at rus-newyork.com and be sure to follow us on social media (see links below).

Facebook: facebook.com/RUSNYSeries

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RUS_NewYork

Other Ways to Help

•  Come to our fundraiser events such as our Fun Shows. Visit http://www.rus-newyork.com/fundraisers.html for current fundraiser happenings. 
• Turn feed bags into funds by sending us your proof of purchases 

Officers Named To RUS NY Management Committee

Officers and directors have been selected to 2019 RUS New York Management Committee.

Michelle Miller will be stepping back in the lead role as President of the organization with the help of non-rider David Fisher as Vice President. Fisher has 35 years in the standardbred industry dealing with all aspects from a groom to an owner, trainer, driver, farrier, tooth floater, investigator and judge.

“It is great having someone that does not ride take on a leadership role,” Miller said. “Fisher has great enthusiasm for the sport and wants to help see it succeed.”

Kara Duh will serve as the group’s secretary and take on membership responsibilities. Hannah Miller, a non-rider, will be the acting treasurer and clerk. Those accepting director roles on the committee include, Cathy Gearwar (also taking on director of sponsorship and website responsibilities) Sophie Engerran, Codie Smith and Hillary Hartnett. Directors commit to taking on at least one lead responsibility for the group and attending meetings either physically or via internet.

Duties of the those on the Management Committee shall be to:

• Provides leadership and strategic direction for the organization
• Ensures that an organization remains accountable to its donors and to the general public.
• Evaluate financial policies, approve annual budgets, and review periodic financial reports to ensure that the organization has the necessary resources to carry out its mission.
• To act as lesions to our members and represent their best interest when voting.
• Directors are expected to actively participate in organizational planning and decision-making and to make sound and informed judgments. When acting on behalf of the organization, directors must put the interests of the Group before any personal or professional concerns and avoid potential conflicts of interest.

Membership of RUS NY is open to any individual who supports the sport of Racing Under Saddle and is interested in helping the group to achieve its aim and willing to abide by the rules of the Group. Members do not need to be from New York but are encouraged to attend meetings, help fundraise and participate in discussions. Membership does not give the power to vote. The only time members get to vote is during the the Group’s Annual General Meeting to elect a Management Committee.

Benefits of membership:

• Networking opportunities and more racing opportunities
• Staying connected with what is going on - getting e-mails and updates (Members are responsible for keeping contact info up to date with the secretary)
• Members can sit on committees and help with proposals that will go in front of the Management Committee

Anybody interested in membership should email rusnewyorkseries@gmail.com.

The organization’s Management Committee must consist of a president, vice president, treasurer, secretary and at least three directors. The positions are voted on annually generally at an annual meeting.

RUS NY’s aim is to help organize and promote under saddle races for Standardbreds across the state. The main goal is to promote racing under saddle and the versatility of the Standardbred breed as both a racing and a riding horse - to help Standardbreds find great homes after they finish their days on the track.

To learn more, visit rus-newyork.com.

Vernon Downs To Host Racing Under Saddle Before Regular Post

Vernon Downs typically features horses racing in harness with a sulky and driver behind them. However, if fans get to the track early, they will be treated to something unique. 

Riders will be atop of the same horses that can be seen on a weekly basis racing in harness. Instead of being driven, the horses will be ridden at a full trot -  the Standardbred’s natural gate. 

Also known as Monte Racing, racing under saddle (RUS) is a hybrid between harness racing and thoroughbred racing. The non-wagering event will feature a field of five and be held at 6 p.m. right before the track’s regularly scheduled 6:10 p.m. post. 

Entries 

All participants will receive $400 as long as the horse finishes the race. The winner will also be presented a cooler sponsored by Triple Crown.  

The event is being brought to the track by RUS NY,  an organization that helps coordinate and promote under saddle races across the state. The organization has put on a fair series for the past five years and was officially formed in early 2014. The main goal is to promote the unique sport, educate about the versatility of the Standardbred breed as both a racing and a riding horse and to help Standardbreds find great homes after they finish their days on the track. 

Follow the group on Facebook, Twitter and via a blog at: 

• Facebook.com/RUSNYSeries
• Twitter.com/RUS_NewYork
• http://rus-newyork.blogspot.com

Racing could not continue without the generosity of sponsors because RUS is yet to become a wagering or self sufficient event. Those that have donated $200 or more include Monticello Raceway, The Meadowlands, Vernon Down, Tioga Downs, Batavia Downs, Saratoga Harness Horsemen's Association, The Mark Ford Stable, Advantage Edge Equine, Morrisville State College, Triple Crown, Pure Country Campgrounds, T&K Harrington LLC, The Equine Tax Group, Preserving Gods Creation Taxidermy, Beckwith Racing, Early Owego Antique Center, ROC The Standardbred and Triple R Equestrian Center. To see all all sponsors, view information on becoming a sponsor or to learn more about RUS visit RUS New York's website, rus-newyork.com.