Hi again, folks, do you like 'em long?

The longest race of the year goes tomorrow night, the final race on the live race card that starts at 7 p.m. It's a 1 1/2 mile marathon, part of a series of extra-long races that culminate in a finale on Extreme Day on holiday Monday, Sept. 7. An always-popular baby race is on tomorrow's card, too. Seven of the better 2-year-old colts and geldings on the grounds will be competing in the second race.

VEGAS BECKONS: A bit of a reminder, too, that if you're serious about becoming the Horseplayer of the Year and earning a trip to Las Vegas for you and a companion--plus hotel, spending money and entry into a rich handicapping contest in Sin City--then enter this Sunday's "Viva Las Vegas on Tour" tournament. The contest races are Saratoga and Del Mar. The Vegas trip is worth about $3,500. More.

WATCH FOR UNUSUAL INSIDER: I've been mucking around cemetaries searching for racing links to the past and "mucking" is probably the right word to use after you find out what I had to do at one particularly historic gravesite. Watch for that in Thursday's Insider.

REACHING THE STEWARDS: And, oh yah, and I'll tell you Thursday how to reach the most beloved of race track individuals--the stewards--when you have a "concern." C'mon, be nice. It IS a thankless job that few people would care to do.

Tomorrow. -- Ivan