NORWICH – Harness racing, one of the original aspects of a traditional county fair, is a staple in the line up at the Chenango County Fair.

The New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) race will kick off opening day Aug. 5 as part of the fair’s grandstand entertainment. The race will be held from 1 to 4 p.m., and is free. These are non-pari-mutuel meets, meaning there is no betting, making it a fun, family experience for racing fans of all ages.

The Sire Stakes racing series offers a three-tiered racing program at the state level. Though county level racing is scaled down, racers say the excitement is still there.

Long-time racer Howard Thorton of Norwich says county fairs, like the one at the Chenango Fair, offers family entertainment as well an opportunity for young horses to get a chance on the track.