NOTE: The original version of this story erroneously indicated that the End of Meet showcase would take place this Sunday, October 22. In fact, it will take place October 29. We regret the error.

by Frank Vespe

Delaware Park’s 80th meet of live racing concludes Saturday, and both the trainer and jockey titles won’t be decided until the close of business.

In the jockey standings, what was once a long lead for defending champ Carol Cedeno has now turned into a small deficit to veteran Scott Spieth. Spieth has one more win than Cedeno, 54-53; both are well clear of Jomar Torres in third.

On Saturday Spieth is named aboard five horses, while Cedeno is set to ride nine. One of Spieth’s mounts, Nekia (2-1) in the second race, is favored. Cedeno is aboard Brahms Breeze in the fifth race, part of the favored coupled entry at 5-2.

The trainer race likewise is coming down to the end. Jamie Ness and Scott Lake both have 22 wins, while Anthony Pecoraro and Arabian trainer Jerenesto Torrez have 21 apiece. Larry Jones isn’t far behind with 20.

Ness has six entered Saturday, four as parts of two coupled entries. Lake has three, as does Pecoraro, and Jones has two. Torrez is done for the season.

Also on tap Saturday is Family Fun Day in the Grove, sponsored by the Delaware Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association.  Activities will begin at 12:30 p.m. and conclude at 3:30 p.m.  Event attractions include a bouncy house, bouncy slide, pony rides, balloon twisters and face painters.  In addition to the country style barbecue, cotton candy, popcorn and snow cones will also be available in the Grove.  Also, a special prize will be given to the child with the best Halloween costume.  Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times and all scheduled activities are weather permitting.

Also, on Sunday, October 29, the track will host its annual “End of Meet Showcase.”

Delaware Park, the Delaware Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (DTHA), CANTER USA Delaware and Mid-Atlantic Horse Rescue are teaming up to host the event.

Delaware Park horses retiring from racing will be presented and offered for sale to the public, with all sales negotiated directly between buyer and seller.  More than 25 Thoroughbreds, Arabians, and lead ponies will be showcased.