Meadowlands: More talent on display during Friday and Saturday qualifiers

The Meadowlands took entries for qualifiers and baby races this morning and when Race Secretary Scott Warren peered into the online entries he was not surprised to see 351 entries but shocked that only four were 2-year-olds. So no babies this week.

There are 26 qualifiers again but split over Friday and Saturday mornings at 10:00 AM each day.

Horsemen, please do not let your guard down this week concerning the protocols New Jersey requires of us. Mask, gloves, questionnaire and social distancing. Last week the cooperation was remarkable and we made a positive impression on the authorities. Let's stay the course and protect the opportunity to race that we all cherish.

Owners are again asked not to attend and watch at home. Following this directive is inconvenient and frustrating but necessary. With luck, they will be there when it counts.

Among the stars over the two mornings of qualifiers are pacing stalwarts like last year's top 3-year-old pacers Bettor's Wish (race 11) and Warrawee Ubeaut (race 4), who faces a familiar rival in Tall Drink Hanover. Wiggle It Jiggleit (race 13) is back at The Meadowlands on Friday for the first time since the 2016 Breeders Crown.

Saturday morning is loaded with many of last season's top freshman trotters and pacers gearing up for the stakes season.

Of course the really big news is that The Meadowlands is racing live on Friday and Saturday with giant 13 race cards and full fields. Post time is 7:15 PM.

-edited release (Meadowlands)