The trackside parking lots were filled to capacity as anxious horseman and curious fans gathered to witness the start of the 2007 harness racing season at Scarborough Downs late last month.

At 10:30 a.m., the first group of horses began the long-awaited parade to the post, and as the field gathered behind the starting gate a trickle of thoroughbred fans left their televised simulcasts from Dubai to venture trackside to witness the live spectacle at the oval.

Springtime Alibi, a game first time winner for driver Joey Mosher, earned that initial trip to the Downs’ winners circle this year.

(Off-season renovations to the track included removal of the 36-year-old hub-rail and lighting system and the installation of a break-away infield fence and pylon system.)

The fastest clocking of the day belonged to LLYR as pilot Kevin Switzer, Jr., negotiated the mile in 2:01 flat for the KDK Standardbred stable. First up from the 3/8th’s on, Switzer gamely engaged Wally Watson and the top class mare, Sassy Sarah, in a stirring front-end duel. Both contestants crossed the wire a nose apart.

Qualifying races will continue to be carded each Tuesday and Saturday morning, leading up to the April 14 Grand Opening of the 2007 meeting at southern Maine’s showplace of harness racing – Scarborough Downs.

Scarborough Downs proudly features live harness racing action each Monday, Tuesday and Saturday afternoon with first post scheduled for 3:45 p.m. The popular Sunday matinees get underway at 12:05 p.m.

Michael M. Sweeney for Scarborough Downs

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