It’s almost time again for the popular East-West Amateur Driving Challenge, set to take place at Cal-Expo on the weekend of April 9 and 10 while going into it’s fifth year.
 
The California squad has prevailed in three of the last four events, and this year will be represented by returning pilots Chris Hernandez, Rick Bertrand and David Siegel, along with first-timer Robert Stepien.
 
The East Coast has arguably assembled their most competitive squad in hopes of turning the tables. Todd Whitney (2009 Amateur Driver of the Year) and Tom Williams (2008 Amateur Driver of the Year) will both be making their second invasions of California and will be joined by Kelly Walker and Dave Ehrenberg.
 
Over the last four years, 19 different Billings drivers have ventured to Cal-Expo to do battle with their West Coast counterparts in what has proven to be a very popular event for both the horsemen and the fans.
 
I am so pleasantly surprised that after five years, the East-West Challenge is still going strong,” said California Amateur Driving Club President Siegel.  “It’s a wonderful event for the amateurs and it gives our program here at Cal-Expo some much needed variety and exposure.  The entire club is grateful for the support of the CHHA and Cal-Expo and all they have given to this event."
 
California Harness Horseman’s Association President Alan Kirschenbaum is not only a well-known owner and breeder, but also an accomplished amateur reinsman in his own right.
 
“The CHHA is happy to continue to support the Challenge as it has the last four years.  As an avid amateur myself, I know how much diversity amateur driving brings to our program out here and all over North America.  We are particularly appreciative of the Billings group traveling such a long distance to support this unique series.”
 
Cal-Expo General Manager Dave Elliott is also a strong supporter of the Challenge.
 
“We love the notion of this special event,” he said.  “Amateur racing is at the historic heart of harness racing and we are happy to endorse it.  Our local club and the Billings organization are shining examples of what can be accomplished in amateur competition.”
 
Fans are reminded that the Meadowlands offers a $75,000 guarantee on the Pick 4 pool every Saturday night, with a $35,000 guarantee on Thursday and Friday nights.  The Pick 4 consists of races 6 through 9 and you can wager at Cal-Expo or any simulcast wagering facility throughout California.  Approximate post time for the Meadowlands sixth race is 5:40 Pacific time.
 
Live racing resumes at Cal-Expo on Thursday (February 25) and continues through Saturday (February 27).  Post-time on Thursday is at 5:05 p.m. (PST).  Post-time on Friday (February 26) is at 5:30 p.m.   Post-time on Saturday is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.  On Thursday night, Cal-Expo offers a complete Lasagna dinner, which includes salad and bread, for just $3.00.