Opening Ceremonies

Lia Macring and members of the Brockton High School Band perform the National  Anthem

Brockton Police Honor Guard

 Under oppressive 94 degree heat the Brockton Fair reopened after a 29 years hiatus. The heat and humidity kept the crowd down to a reported 1470 but those on hand were hopeful and upbeat about the return of racing to the South Shore area. After a fine opening ceremony which included the Brockton Police Honor Guard and a rendition of The National Anthem by Lia Macring and members of the Brockton High School Marching Band, Mayor Yunits cut a red ribbon from across the track and the racing action commenced.

The first race in 29 years was won by Rita's Cargo. Rita's Cargo is trained by Lori Lockhart, a local trainer who is known for her fine record with state-bred horses in stakes races at Suffolk Downs. Lori  also won the second race with Nashawena.  Al Howarth was the jockey for both victories.  

Mayor Yunits cuts the ribbon

After Lori's early victories,  jockey Howard Lanci and trainer Robert Gorham took over. Howard reeled off seven straight wins, five of which were for trainer Robert Gorham. 

There were no surprises at the windows as seven post time favorites won, four of which were odds-on. The highest win pay was $7.20 in the third race.

First Race winner Rita's Cargo

Opening day action was marred by a multi-horse mishap in the fourth race when only three of seven horses finished the race. Indian Wells bore out on the first turn forcing two horses out. Bringem On Home caught the worst and had to be humanely destroyed because of his injuries. Later in the race Papa G broke down and also had to be destroyed. Sixty-six year old jockey Tony Amonte was taken to the hospital  after being thrown from Bringem On Home.

Racing will continue at the Brockton Fair four days a week (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday) through July 31st. An extra card will be run on the July 4th holiday. 

Horses round sharp turns