2006-06-24
Author: Ardin Masson

It's the first official weekend of the summer and the Portage Turf Club is starting off the season by holding harness races at the Portage Ex Fair Grounds.

One of the Turf Club Directors, Mike Williams, says the event will initiate a great start to the Great Western racing season. Williams adds what will make the races over the next two days exciting, is the fact that there are more horses at the event than there have been in the last half decade, including plenty of new horses that are developing nicely.

The races will feature pari-mutual betting with win, place show, daily double, quinella and traitor wagering. If you're a little confused by all this, there's no need to worry as Williams says there will be people on-site to explain all the details. He points out that although wagering is not mandatory, it will be available for spectators of all ages adding it won't cost anyone big money and it's main goal is for fun.

As far as track conditions are concerned, the limestone track at the fair grounds can hold a great deal of water so yesterday's rain shouldn't be a factor. Williams says that the track is in excellent shape due to all the hard work the Portage Turf Club has put into maintenance and will be rated "fast" for the event.

Post times are at 1:30 pm both today and tomorrow with nine races each day.