Kentucky Derby Party Featuring a Special Edition of Party on the Patio Returns to Mohegan Pennsylvania

Kentucky Derby Party Featuring a Special Edition of Party on the Patio Returns to Mohegan Pennsylvania

Food trucks, mint juleps, contests, promotions, live music and much more to take place on Saturday, May 4th

WILKES-BARRE, PA (April 2, 2024) – With the 150th Kentucky Derby taking place on Saturday, May 4th, Mohegan Pennsylvania is set to host a Kentucky Derby Party like never before! Beginning at 2:00pm, this annual event will provide guests with an opportunity to indulge in delicious bites, try various alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, participate in a Hat Revue for a chance to win up to a $500 Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card and join in on a promotion where guests can win up to $1,000 in free wagers. Additionally, a special edition of Party on the Patio will take place after the race! There is no cover for the Kentucky Derby Party and Party on the Patio.

The Kentucky Derby Party will feature Coors Light, Blue Moon, a variety of seltzers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages. Guests can also enjoy the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep, with an opportunity to upgrade to a specialty 150th Anniversary Kentucky Derby glass while supplies last. Those looking to grab a quick bite can head over to the Burger Bus and Eat Up Now food trucks where a variety of mouthwatering options will be available. Guests can stop by the Best Cigar Pub booth where a live cigar roller will be in action and a selection of cigars will be available for purchase. Additionally, guests can relax and listen to acoustic music by Ken Norton from 2:00pm – 6:00pm.

Throughout the day, the Spa Sapphire team will be set up in the racing lobby and assisting guests with Derby Day essentials. Additionally, guests can explore Spa Sapphire’s exquisite five-star services and plan a day of luxurious self-care.

The Hat Revue is back, and guests have an opportunity to compete for lucrative prizes! Registration for the Hat Revue will be from 4:00pm – 6:00pm in the racing lobby. Top prizes include a $500 Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card that will be awarded to the “Best Couple” or “Group Themed Hats”. Winners of the “Most Classic Derby Hat” and “Most Creative Hat” categories will each receive a $250 Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card. Mohegan Pennsylvania gift cards can be redeemed towards an overnight stay, divine dining choices and incredible shopping selections across the property.

Beginning at 10:00am on Friday, May 3rd, Mohegan Pennsylvania will accept advanced Kentucky Derby wagers in Simulcast and tellers will be available to assist. Beginning at 10:00am on Saturday, May 4th, Simulcast will be self-service but guests can place wagers with tellers at the upper-level Pacer’s Clubhouse betting windows. No live harness racing meets are scheduled for May 4th but Simulcast wagering will be available for all tracks with live meets including Churchill Downs throughout the day. All guests must be 18 years or older to place wagers at the indoor Simulcast location.

Mohegan Pennsylvania is holding a promotion where guests who wager $100 or more with a teller on any race will receive one entry for every $100 wagered. Guests must place these entries into one of the 20 boxes located in the racing lobby based on who they think will win the Kentucky Derby. At approximately 6:57pm, the Kentucky Derby will begin, televised on the outdoor jumbo screen and indoor racing TVs. At the conclusion of the race, four winners will be selected out of the corresponding boxes of the official top four finishers. The selected first-place box winner will receive $1,000 in free wagers valid for Preakness Stakes on Saturday, May 18th. Second – fourth place winners will receive $500, $250 and $100 in free wagers, respectively.

Immediately following the end of the Kentucky Derby broadcast, The River 105 and 103.5’s DJ Tommy will take the stage to emcee Party on the Patio. This special edition Party on the Patio will take place from 7:30pm – 10:00pm and will feature Philadelphia Freedom, a tribute to Elton John. Mohegan Pennsylvania recently announced that this year’s Party on the Patio will feature a record-breaking 22 weeks of shows. For more information, visit moheganpa.com/potp.

Guests must be 21 years of age or older to access the Kentucky Derby Party and Party on the Patio. Additionally, most areas of Mohegan Pennsylvania are restricted to guests 21 years of age and older, including the hotel, gaming areas, and several restaurants. Valid, unexpired photo identification is required (driver’s license, passport, military ID). Expired identification will not be accepted. Wristbands issued for the event are not valid for the gaming floor. All persons, bags and personal items are subject to inspection. No portable chairs are permitted.

ABOUT MOHEGAN PENNSYLVANIA

Mohegan Pennsylvania, owned by Mohegan, was the first destination to bring gaming to Pennsylvania in 2006 and since then has become one of the premier entertainment, gaming, shopping, and dining destinations in the state. Situated on 400 acres in Plains, Pennsylvania, Mohegan Pennsylvania features a newly renovated 238-room hotel with on-site spa and adjacent 20,000 square-foot Convention Center. It is currently home to 67,000 square feet of gaming space including nearly 60 live table games, more than 1,700 slot machines and electronic table games, a variety of dining and shopping options, nightlife, entertainment and live harness racing. Mohegan Pennsylvania is within easy access of New York, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware. More information is available by calling 1.888.WIN.IN.PA (1.888.946.4672) or visiting MoheganPA.com. Connect with us on Facebook, and follow us on X or Instagram.

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Mohegan Pennsylvania Jumpstarts Summer With A Hot Summer Fun Kickoff Party

Live harness racing gets a boost with ostrich & camel racing, plus so much more!

WHAT: Mohegan Pennsylvania is celebrating the start of their annual Hot Summer Fun with a Kickoff Party. This family-friendly event is full of activities while spotlighting local charities and a salute to veterans.

WHEN/WHERE: Saturday, July 1st

12:30pm – 6:00pm

Pocono Downs at Mohegan Pennsylvania

IN DETAIL: Hot Summer Fun is upon us at Mohegan Pennsylvania, and the Summer Kickoff Party is one guests won’t want to miss. Guests of all ages can gather at the Racetrack for a day of activities including face painting, balloon art, and more. Those looking for a quick bite can enjoy freshly grilled hot dogs and hamburgers and grab a sweet treat from Jitty Joe’s Homemade Ice Cream truck. An array of beverages will be available for purchase, along with a complimentary, limited-edition, color changing cup.

To get things started, the FBS Initiative, an organization dedicated to helping homeless veterans off the street and on their feet, will do a special presentation of the colors during the National Anthem at 12:30pm. Veteran organizations Amvets and the PA Wounded Warriors will also be on hand to provide support to past and present military members, along with their families. Additional charities at the Summer Kickoff include Marley’s Mission, a local non-profit organization that provides free, equine-based therapy to help children develop solutions in their own lives and break barriers in their own healing.

At 1:00pm, guests can enjoy some high energy live harness racing on the Racetrack with a unique twist during the two intermissions. Between races, ostriches and camels with drivers will take over the Racetrack for an exhilarating dash to the finish line!

For more information about the Summer Kickoff Party, visit MoheganPA.com.

*Media are welcome to attend the Summer Kickoff Party. Those interested in coverage opportunities can reach out to PR Manager Charisse Huff at [email protected].

 ABOUT MOHEGAN PENNSYLVANIA
Mohegan Pennsylvania, owned by Mohegan, was the first destination to bring gaming to Pennsylvania in 2006 and since then has become one of the premier entertainment, gaming, shopping, and dining destinations in the state. Situated on 400 acres in Plains, Pennsylvania, Mohegan Pennsylvania features a 238-room hotel with on-site spa and adjacent 20,000 square-foot Convention Center. It is currently home to 67,000 square feet of gaming space including nearly 60 live table games, more than 1,700 slot machines and electronic table games, a variety of dining and shopping options, nightlife, entertainment and live harness racing. Mohegan Pennsylvania is within easy access of New York, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware. More information is available by calling 1.888.WIN.IN.PA (1.888.946.4672) or visiting MoheganPA.com Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram, download our app and view us on YouTube.

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Kentucky Derby Celebration Returns to Mohegan Pennsylvania

On Saturday, May 6th, Kentucky Derby enthusiasts can enjoy live music, food trucks, mint juleps, a Hat Revue contest and plenty more!

WILKES-BARRE, PA (April 25, 2023)– The Kentucky Derby Celebration is back at Mohegan Pennsylvania! This much anticipated annual party gets started at 2:00pm on Saturday, May 6th when outdoor beverage windows and food trucks open. Registration for the Hat Revue starts at 4:00pm, and guests will compete for up to $500 in Mohegan Pennsylvania gift cards. The Kentucky Derby celebration at Mohegan Pennsylvania is free for all fans age 21+ to enjoy.

Outdoor beverage windows at the Kentucky Derby Celebration will offer mint juleps, Coors Light, Blue Moon, and a variety of seltzers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages. Two of Pennsylvania’s best food trucks, Ray’s Porketta and Jitty Joe’s Homemade Ice Cream, will be stationed outside for the celebration. There will be live music by The JOB and Light up the Moon starting at 2:00pm. Guests can also participate in the NEPA Cornhole Tournaments throughout the afternoon on the track infield.

It’s contest time! Guests can bring their greatest Churchill Downs inspired hats for a chance to win great prizes. Registration for the Hat Revue will be from 4:00pm – 6:00pm, and there are three different prizes that guests can win. The top prize includes a $500 Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card that will be awarded to the Best Dressed Couple. The other two categories are Most Classic and Most Creative, each awarding a $250 Mohegan Pennsylvania gift card. Mohegan Pennsylvania gift cards can be redeemed towards an overnight stay, tantalizing dining choices and incredible shopping selections across the property.

At approximately 6:57pm, the Kentucky Derby will begin, televised on the outdoor jumbo screen and indoor racing TV’s. Mohegan Pennsylvania will also be accepting advance wagers for the Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 5th. There will be no live harness racing meets scheduled for May 6th but simulcast wagering will be available for all tracks with live meets including Churchill Downs throughout the day. All guests must be 18 years or older to place wagers at the indoor simulcast location.

For more details on this event, visit: Kentucky Derby Celebration at Mohegan Pennsylvania

ABOUT MOHEGAN PENNSYLVANIA
Mohegan Pennsylvania, owned by Mohegan, was the first destination to bring gaming to Pennsylvania in 2006 and since then has become one of the premier entertainment, gaming, shopping, and dining destinations in the state. Situated on 400 acres in Plains, Pennsylvania, Mohegan Pennsylvania features a 237-room hotel with on-site spa and adjacent 20,000 square-foot Convention Center. It is currently home to 67,000 square feet of gaming space including nearly 60 live table games, more than 1,700 slot machines and electronic table games, a variety of dining and shopping options, nightlife, entertainment and live harness racing. Mohegan Pennsylvania is within easy access of New York, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware. More information is available by calling 1.888.WIN.IN.PA (1.888.946.4672) or visiting MoheganPA.com Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram, download our app and view us on YouTube.

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Mohegan Sun Pocono Promotes Michael Zullinger To Director of Race and Sportsbook Operations

WILKES-BARRE, PA (April 1, 2021) – Mohegan Sun Pocono (MSP) is pleased to announce Michael Zullinger has been promoted to Director of Race and Sportsbook Operations. In this role, Michael will oversee racing operations, including live racing, at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono, as well as onsite Sportsbook operations at both The Downs at MSP and MSP at Lehigh Valley Race and Sportsbook, located in Allentown, PA.

“We are thrilled to have Michael assume the role of Director of Race and Sportsbook Operations,” said Tony Carlucci, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun Pocono. “His vast horse racing and off-track wagering experience certainly make him an asset to our team, and we’re really excited about the future of both The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono and Mohegan Sun Pocono at Lehigh Valley Race and Sportsbook under his leadership.”

Michael has 27 years of experience with off-track wagering, starting his career as a part-time Mutuel Teller in 1994. Michael became a Facility Manager in 1997, and used his expertise to facilitate operations at off-track wagering sites in Carbondale, Hazelton and East Stroudsburg over the course of 23 years. In July 2020, Michael joined the team at Mohegan Sun Pocono at Lehigh Valley Race and Sportsbook, where his guidance and dedicated work during the COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact, resulting in his recent promotion.

ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN POCONO
Mohegan Sun Pocono, owned by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment, was the first destination to bring gaming to Pennsylvania in 2006 and since then has become one of the premier entertainment, gaming, shopping, and dining destinations in the state. Situated on 400 acres in Plains, Pennsylvania, Mohegan Sun Pocono features a 238-room hotel with on-site spa and adjacent 20,000 square-foot Convention Center. It is currently home to 82,000 square feet of gaming space including nearly 60 live table games, over 1900 slot machines and electronic table games, a variety of dining and shopping options, nightlife, entertainment and live harness racing. Mohegan Sun Pocono is within easy access of New York, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware. More information is available by calling 1.888.WIN.IN.PA (1.888.946.4672) or visiting our website. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram, download our app and view us on YouTube.

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The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono Week in Review

Game of Claims Finals Recap

We have slowly worked our way into the 2020 season at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono, racing just two nights a week throughout the month of February, a much earlier start to the season than normal. But the action hit the ground running, in large part due to the Game of Claims series, a fun late closer affair making its debut at Pocono this year.

Each weekend in February at Pocono, four different groups of claimers met in preliminary legs with the intent of making the high-stakes finals. They were eligible to be claimed in those preliminaries, with the claiming price rising each week to make it more expensive for owners who wanted to jump in late on a hot horse. The finals took place this past Saturday and Sunday. Let’s see who came out on top.

CLAIMING PRICE $15,000 to $20,000 (Final Purse $30,000)

Royal Heart went off as the 9-5 betting favorite after winning his previous leg. He grabbed a pocket seat early behind second choice Horsing Around, who came in with wins in both of his previous Game of Claims races with front-end speed. But Horsing Around couldn’t get away with an easy lead in the Saturday night final, as he was hounded by a first-over effort from Pop’s Romeo.

Even though Horsing Around fended off that effort, it left him vulnerable in the stretch drive. That’s when driver Simon Allard tipped Royal Heart to the outside and he came up strong to win it by a half-length in 1:53:3 over Horsing Around. American Music finished third. Royal Heart moved to two-for-two since joining the Rene Allard barn.

CLAIMING PRICE $25,000 to $30,000 (Final Purse $50,000)

After winning the first two legs of the series, Trente Deo took last week off after being claimed and joining the barn of trainer William Adamczyk. He went off as the 2-1 second choice in Saturday night’s final, with Polak A getting the favorite’s attention at 9-5. Driver Jim Morrill Jr. had Trente Deo in motion first-over pretty early in the mile, but that proved to be the right move when he picked up cover from Classy Hill on the back stretch.

When the rounded the final turn, Trente Deo shrugged off the cover and came charging up at Polak A, who was setting the pace. Trente Deo blew right past Polak A and then held off late kick from What’s Goin On to finish second, with Beach Pro nabbing the show. Trente Deo won by 1 ½ lengths in 1:52:3 to finish a perfect three-for-three in the series.

CLAIMING PRICE $7,500 to $11,000 (Purse: $15,000)

In his back-to-back wins in preliminary legs, Always B Magic benefitted from inside post positions and pocket trips. For the final on Sunday night, he had to leave from post position #5 in a field of nine, still a good spot but a decidedly different look. Tough Mudder set the pace, while driver George Napolitano Jr. decided on a first-over path for Always B Magic, the even-money favorite, when he couldn’t get the pocket.

It was by no means an easy journey for Always B Magic, considering he was parked out for two of the three turns. He eventually wore down Tough Mudder, but Naked City came up strong late after the favorite provided his cover. Always B Magic managed to gut it out to win it by a nose for new trainer Susan Marshall, staying perfect in the series with a winning time of 1:55. Naked City just missed in second while Mystery Island picked up the show.

CLAIMING PRICE $10,000 to $15,000 (Purse: $20,000)

In the preliminary legs of this group, Charger Blue Chip was arguably the top performer, going win, show, win in the three races. Yet he found himself at 9-1 on the odds board in Sunday’s final, primarily because he was saddled with the outside #9 post. Driver Jim Marohn Jr. drove him aggressively, sending him early and retaking the lead from Carmens Best on the front stretch.

A lot of times a speed duel like that would leave a horse vulnerable to closers. And, indeed, Grandpa Don, the 7-5 favorite, came up with a first-over threat. But Marohn kept summoning up reserves of energy from Charger Blue Chip, leaving Grandpa Don and the rest of the field struggling in his wake. Charger Blue Chip, trained by Marc Mosher, came home a 2 ¼-length winner in 1:54:1, with Grandpa Don second and Carmens Best third.

That will do it for this week at Pocono, but we’ll see you at the track. Feel free to e-mail me at [email protected].

 

Saturday, November 16th is Fan Appreciation Night

There are only three days remaining in the 2019 racing season at the Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono, and the track in Northeast PA is planning a special “Fan Appreciation Night” on Saturday, November 16th.  Just in time for the cold weather, fans can pick up a special commemorative hooded sweatshirt, while supplies last.  A coupon is required, and will be in the live racing program, available starting at 5:00pm at the Racing Rewards desk.  The coupon may be redeemed between 9:00pm and 10:00pm at the lower grandstand, and sizes are limited.

 

The Downs is also continuing to highlight the best of the 2019 season, with the Leading Trainer – UTRS to be honored on Saturday, November 9th, and the Leading Driver and Trotter of the Year spotlighted on closing night, November 16th.  Rene Allard was honored for Leading Trainer – Wins on Saturday, November 2nd, and Atta Boy Dan took home two awards, Pacer of the Year and Claimer of the Year on Saturday, October 26th.

 

Post Time for the two Saturday cards is 7:00pm, and Tuesday post is 4:00pm.

 

The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono’s 2020 racing schedule will be released in late December.