One of the fan-favorite fair events is returning to the track this year.

On July 12 and July 13, some of the top harness racers and town celebrities will be taking to the track at the Mecosta County Fairgrounds.

The opening night of racing will be Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. for the Michigan Breeders Colt Stakes. There
will be eight divisions competing for the large prize of $11,000.

“Not too long ago, it used to go for $5,000,” Speed Superintendent Matt Currie said. “It’s pretty
exciting.”

On Wednesday, the grandstands will witness the overnight races starting at 6:30, which will compete for a boosted $2,500 prize as opposed to $800 from years past.

Following, the celebrity race will be competing for unique high stakes. The winner will receive the
majority of infield tent donations and have the choice of charity to donate to. This year’s celebrity
competitors include Physician Assistant of West Michigan Primary Care Dennis Behler, Sheriff Brian
Miller’s wife Heather Miller, local Psychiatrist John Farrar, and concrete family-name Dan Hicks.

As an added bonus before Wednesday’s races, the Mecosta County Community Foundation will be
auctioning off one seat to drive for next year’s races.

Grandstand tickets for harness racing are $5. Admission to the celebrity infield party admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children, which includes entry for viewing the races.

For more news, follow the Big Rapids Daily News online at wrbn.com and on social media.