Tioga Downs wants to give talented local singers a chance to perform the National Anthem during the 2015 race season. Selected singers will be featured before Sunday races and major stakes days.
Those interested may submit a video or audio audition to Tioga Downs’ race-caller and accomplished musician James Witherite at jamesattioga@gmail.com. YouTube links or unedited MP3 files are the only media that will be accepted. The National Anthem should be performed a cappella and in a traditional style in all auditions. Lyrics must be memorized, and the total length must not exceed 1 minute and 30 seconds.
“Tioga Downs has always been connected with our community,” said Witherite. “Involving area musicians as part of the pre-race celebration is a great way to showcase local talent and better engage guests with our events.”
There are 17 Sunday slots and several major stakes races available for a featured singer.
Tioga Downs is preparing for the start of its 2015 season on May 2, the same day as the Kentucky Derby. A simulcast of the derby is planned for Tioga Downs with live racing beginning that evening. Various other special events and promotion are planned throughout the year.
In addition to live harness racing, Tioga Downs offers video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the entertainment complex.
Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, N.Y. and Vernon Downs in Vernon, N.Y. Gural is in the process of preparing a new proposal to apply for the state’s final full gaming license. Once awarded, Tioga Downs will expand its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs.
For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.
