Grand Circuit Preview: Matron Stakes at Dover Downs

The Grand Circuit action heats up this week with races at Dover Downs in Delaware and the Meadowlands Racetrack in New Jersey. The Matron Stakes at Dover Downs on Thursday, Nov. 7, will showcase four divisions for three-year-olds, featuring both pacing and trotting events. Purse breakdowns include $185,500 for the three-year-old colt pacers, $152,800 for the colt trotters, $146,050 for the filly trotters, and $116,500 for the filly pacers.

Meanwhile, the Meadowlands will host the Kindergarten Series finals for two-year-olds on Saturday, Nov. 9, where top young trotters and pacers will compete. Purses include $243,400 for the filly trot, $173,300 for the colt trot, $165,000 for the filly pace, and $148,500 for the colt pace.

Last Week’s Highlights  

Nijinsky dominated the $250,000 Monument Circle at Harrah’s Hoosier Park on Friday, Nov. 1, and T C I bounced back with a strong win in the $243,056 Carl Erskine Memorial for sophomore trotting colts.

Grand Circuit Standings Update  

Current leaders (through Nov. 2) include Dexter Dunn (drivers), Ron Burke (trainers), and Burke Racing Stable (owners). Points are awarded in finals and divisions, with awards sponsored by Winbak Farms.

Upcoming Events  

Next week, Dover Downs will host the Matron Stakes for two-year-olds from Nov. 11-14, marking another key event in the Grand Circuit series.