Field set for $1 million Yonkers International
At 0h02, on October 11, 2022 • By YONKERS
Six international trotters have arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York – with a final destination of MGM Yonkers Raceway – to tackle four currently racing in North America in the Oct. 15 MGM Yonkers International Trot. The $1 million event for older trotters anchors a strong afternoon card that kicks off at 12:30 p.m. and includes a pair of $250,000 invitationals.
Leading the way from overseas is 2022 Elitlopp winner Etonnant, and reigning International Trot champion Zacon Gio hopes for an encore performance.
Representing France, Etonnant has won 20 of 81 career races and over 2 million euros. Most recently, he won at Vincennes on Sept. 10 at the 2,700-meter distance, and has finished no worse than second in his previous five starts. Trainer Richard Westerink has secured regular driver Anthony Barrier to handle the lines.
Zacon Gio returns to the New York scene as he attempts to relive the greatest triumph of his career. He won the most recent MGM Yonkers International Trot — in 2019 — in 2:24.1 while representing Italy. Trainer Holger Ehlert is back with driver Robert Vecchione looking for the repeat.
The $1 million MGM Yonkers International Trot (race seven) is contested at the distance of 1-1/4 miles and scheduled for 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15.