The stakes are high for local bars and restaurants as they prepare to compete for the “best burger” title at a brand new Tioga Downs charity event this summer. The first ever Belly Busting Burger Battle takes place trackside on Sunday, July 19 from 1 to 4 p.m.
Tioga Downs, located in Nichols, N.Y., continues to demonstrate its commitment to the community by promising to donate all proceeds to benefit local children attending The Salvation Army’s Long Point Camp on Seneca Lake.
Those who attend will be able to taste the best burgers in the Southern Tier all in one location. Unlimited samples and drink specials will be available throughout the event.
Admission is $15 or $7 for those under 12. Those 21 and over will receive one complementary alcoholic beverage, and everyone can enjoy free soda and water throughout the afternoon.
“I can’t think of a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than sampling delicious burgers made right here in the Southern Tier, knowing you’re also helping a great cause,” said Tom Osiecki, president of Tioga Downs. “We hope many local families will join us in supporting local restaurants and the Salvation Army.”
Anyone who purchases a ticket and attends the Burger Battle will have a chance to vote on the winning entry. A people’s choice winner will be selected and awarded $300 cash. Event judges will also select their favorite burger. The judge’s choice winner will receive a $3,000 cash prize and the title of Southern Tier’s Best Burger!
Vendors and live entertainment by “That 90’s Band” will also be part of the event. A limited number of spots for vendors are still available. Those interested should contact Alison Meyer at ameyer@tiogadowns.com or Sarah Hoffman at shoffman@tiogadowns.com.
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Tioga Down’s gift shop and all Ticketmaster locations.
Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, 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 Tioga Downs, visit www.tiogadowns.com.
