New York State Legislators Representing the Bronx and Long Island Claim Victory at Annual Legislative Pace at Historic Yonkers Raceway

(Photo credit: Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts) L to R New York State Assembly Members Eddie Gibbs, Stefani Zinerman, Amanda Septimo, Michaelle Solages, J. Gary Pretlow, Latrice Walker, and Landon Dais

The lower chamber came out on top as New York State Assembly members, 

all first-time winners, swept all four heats

YONKERS, NY – Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts (“Empire City”) announced the winners of the annual Legislative Pace, held on Friday, September 20, 2024. The event gives state lawmakers the reins as they compete for bragging rights in what has become an ultra-competitive, yet friendly, must-see harness racing event at Yonkers Raceway, hosted by Empire City and the Standardbred Owners Association of New York (“SOANY”).

New York State legislators participated in the annual before-the-card, non-wagering harness races, holding the reins in double-seated jog carts alongside professional harness drivers. Each race consisted of two turns around Yonkers Raceway’s historic one-half-mile track.

The competition was stiff as several New York State legislators participated as returning champions looking for a repeat visit to the winner’s circle, including Assembly Members Joe DeStefano (R-Suffolk) and Karl Brabanec (R-Orange/Rockland). 

However, this year, all four heats were captured by first-time winners representing the Bronx and Long Island.  Those who enjoyed the sweet taste of victory included Assembly Member Amanda Septimo (D-Bronx), Assembly Member Eddie Gibbs (D-Bronx), Assembly Member Jacob Blumencranz (R-Nassau/Suffolk) and Assembly Member Michaelle Solages (D-Nassau), winning their respective heats in thrilling fashion. 

“The annual Legislative Pace event presents legislators with the opportunity for lighthearted, friendly competition along with the thrill of close interactions with the horses,” said New York State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. “As the Chair of the Senate Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee, I appreciate having the opportunity to bring attention to the harness racing industry as part of our steadfast commitment to meeting the needs of the horses, riders, trainers, and owners.” 

Legislative Pace participants also experienced the more than $1 million investment MGM Resorts has made in the historic 125-year-old track to enhance the racing experience. Track upgrades, the first in more than 15 years, include a resurfaced and regraded track that raised the turns as much as a foot, upgraded track lighting to an LED system, a resurfaced paddock, and a new state-of-the-art tote board with video capabilities.

“Not only has the Legislative Pace become a highly anticipated and fun evening for legislators, but more importantly this event allows members of the State Assembly and State Senate to experience racing firsthand and learn more about its importance to agriculture and the state’s economy,” said Joseph Faraldo, president of the Standardbred Owners Association, which represents horsemen at Yonkers Raceway. “Our industry creates tens of thousands of jobs and generates billions of dollars each year, and we are thrilled that so many legislators want to be involved in harness racing and learn more.”

Live racing continues at Yonkers Raceway Monday-Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday evenings with a first-race post time of 7:00 p.m. Races are simulcast and available for viewing and wagering online at www.EmpireCityBets.com where racing fans can create a free account and view live racing at Yonkers Raceway and tracks across the country.

For more information on Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts, please visit www.empirecitycasino.com. 

About Empire City Casino 

Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts is one of the largest entertainment and gaming destinations in the northeast.  Featuring nearly 4,700 of the hottest slots, electronic three card poker, blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat and sic bo table games, Empire City Casino also offers guests year-round harness racing and international simulcasting; live entertainment, and more. A selection of dining options will satisfy even the most discerning palate with fan-favorite fare at The Pub, and convenient delicious options at Lil’ Cocina and the Big Kitchen International Food Court. Visit Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts located at 810 Yonkers Avenue (off I-87 at Central Avenue) Yonkers, NY, Westchester County, open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. For more information, visit www.empirecitycasino.com or call 914.968.4200.

Media Contacts: 

Maria Cray, Nicholas & Lence Communications, (508) 245-6564, maria@nicholaslence.com

Josh Knoller, Nicholas & Lence Communications, (201) 294-9586, josh@nicholaslence.com

Tatiana Diaz  Community Affairs Manager Empire City Casino Phone: 914-457-2442 E-mail: tdiaz@empirecitycasino.com