Bravo, Volk Lead Monmouth Standings
With four weeks of the 2011 Monmouth Park meeting in the books, some very familiar faces show the way in the races for top jockey, trainer and owner.
Thirteen-time riding champion Joe Bravo has 16 wins, one more than last year’s top rider Paco Lopez. Elvis Trujillo, leading Monmouth rider in 2009, is next with 14 victories.
In the trainer’s race, Scott Volk, who tied for leading conditioner at last year’s Elite Summer Meet, sports seven wins, two more than the pair of Eddie Plesa Jr. and Eddie Broom.
The owner’s contest has George and Lori Hall leading the way with four wins, one more than the trio of Joel Kligman, Richard Malouf and Eddie Broome and JMJ Racing Stables.
EARLY OPENING THIS SATURDAY FOR BELMONT STAKES SIMULCAST
Monmouth Park gates will open at 10:30 a.m. this Saturday, June 11 as the Oceanport racetrack will simulcast the full-card from Belmont Park, including the 143rd Belmont Stakes, featuring a rematch between Kentucky Derby winner Animal Kingdom and Preakness victor Shackleford.
Monmouth’s live card will commence at 12:50 p.m. highlighted by the $75,000 Just Smashing Stakes and the $75,000 Rumson Stakes.
IRISH FESTIVAL COMES TO MONMOUTH THIS SUNDAY
Monmouth Park will play host the 41st annual New Jersey Irish Festival this Sunday, June 12.
Beginning with a traditional Catholic Mass at 11:00 a.m., the entire day will feature events centered around the Emerald Isle.
A Pipe and Drum competition will take place just outside the picnic area as live bands will play all day on three different stages.
A beer garden will be on tap at the north end of the Grandstand as dozens of vendors will set the carnival atmosphere throughout the backyard of the Grandstand.
As always, Family Fun Day will be in full force with clowns, pony rides, face painters and a bounce house.
For more information visit www.monmouthpark.com or call 732-222-5100.