September 25, 2012

Harness racer's condition upgraded after fall at Cumberland Fairgrounds

By David Hench dhench@mainetoday.com
Staff Writer

CUMBERLAND — A sulky driver's condition has been upgraded to serious condition after he fell from his seat Monday night at the Cumberland Fairgrounds.

Leigh Fitch of Sebago, a 67-year-old driver with a long history in harness racing, appeared to have suffered some type of medical issue before falling out of his seat, said Mike Timmons, President of the Cumberland County Fair.

Fitch was initially listed in critical condition at Maine Medical Center but his condition was upgraded by Tuesday morning.

Fitch fell out of his seat and landed on the racetrack seconds before horses were going to be released from the starting gate in the fourth race of the night. It was just before 8 p.m.

“It happened so quick. It was very unsettling,” Timmons said Monday night.

Timmons said Fitch has raced since he was 15.

Steve Minich, a reporter for WMTW, was at the racetrack and told his station that Monday was Fitch's first night back driving after a mishap at Scarborough Downs in June, according to the station's website.

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