Veterans spending their day at The Meadows Racetrack and Casino were honored in the winners circle after the 6th race on Monday, November 11, as part of a special Veterans Appreciation race.
Anyone that served their country was invited to the winners circle, where they received a free win photo to share in the victory by DM Big Dog Daddy. They were also given a $5 betting voucher, free drinks and pastries earlier in the day, all courtesy of the Meadows Standardbred Owners Association.
Ron Burke, trainer of DM Big Dog Daddy, said, “I wanted them to remember their day at The Meadows. They are truly heroes and we appreciate the sacrifices they have made.” After the group photo was taken, Burke called down to request that one of the veterans be given the blanket, which had been presented to the winning horse.
Winning driver Dave Palone added, “It was an honor to meet those fellas. My dad is a former Marine and I wish he could have made it today. It sure puts things into perspective. We owe them a lot.”
When Palone returned to the winners circle he hung up the lines and went to shake the hands of all the Veterans that had joined him.
Kim Hankins, Executive Director of the MSOA, noted, “This day means so much to me because my son served in the army. I am so proud of him and all the others that have served our country.”
Outrider Missy Rothfuss, who always makes sure that her mount is properly attired for special occasions, said, “Veterans Day is a big deal. We need to give thanks for everything that we have. Our freedom and way of life is thanks to them.”
Russ Otto a Veteran and Meadows regular, summed it all up, saying “I think that it was really great that The Meadows and MSOA honored the Veterans. We really appreciated it.”
