March 14, 2022 – by Chris Tully for First Tracks Cumberland

CUMBERLAND, ME – First Tracks Cumberland is pleased to announce a trio of Trackmaster rating late closer series for the upcoming Cumberland extended pari-mutuel meeting which kicks-off on Friday, April 8, 2022.  There are no entry fees.

“We are excited to bring increased opportunities to the Maine horse people for the second year of racing at First Tracks Cumberland.  Most of the local trainers and owners supported us for our inaugural race meet, and we look forward to taking their entries again in 2022,” noted Race Secretary Marc Reynolds.

The top “Kick-Off” Series event is open to pacers with 68 or less TM rating (70 for Fillies and Mares) with an elimination leg being raced Saturday, April 16 for a purse of $6,000, with a $12,000 final on Saturday, April 23.

The middle “Kick-Off” Series event is open to pacers with 65 or less TM rating (67 for Fillies and Mares) with an elimination leg being raced Saturday, April 16 for a purse of $5,000, with a $10,000 final on Saturday, April 23.

The entry level “Kick-Off” Series event is open to pacers with 62 or less TM rating (64 for Fillies and Mares) with an elimination leg being raced Friday, April 15 for a purse of $4,000, with a $8,000 final on Friday, April 22.

Pending Maine Harness Racing Commission approval, horses that raced on, or after, December 1, 2021 will be allowed to race at Cumberland (without qualifying) the first two weeks of racing (through April 16).  Beginning with the April 22 card, the standard 45-day rule goes back into effect.

The first qualifiers will be offered on Saturday, April 2 at 12:00 noon, with the draw on Friday, April 1, box closes at 9 am.

Condition sheets for opening weekend will be posted very soon on the USTA online entry system.

Owners, trainers, drivers and caretakers that intend to participate at First Tracks Cumberland should take the initiative to get their licenses renewed as soon as possible as current status will be strictly enforced by the Maine Harness Racing Commission.

For more information go to our website: firsttrackscumberland.com, and follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.