Sports Haven

Karaoke at Sports Haven - Thursday Nights

2008-11-05T13:35:00.000-05:00

Are you the next singing sensation? You really can sing, no matter what your friends say! And to prove it, come down to Sports Haven every Thursday Night. Our karaoke features DJ Stevie B playing all the favorites.

Plus, you can sing on the big stage. This isn't some hole in the wall event...it's on the main dance floor. Other highlights include:

No Cover Charge
Chance to win ca$h every week.
$1 Bud Drafts
$1 Hot Dogs
DJ’d by New Haven’s own Stevie B.
Watch sports on the movie size screens
Live Horse Racing Action
Plenty of Free Parking
Great music all night long
Music starts - 9:00 PM

USMC Boxing at Sports Haven

2008-10-26T04:12:00.000-04:00

USMC Boxing Team, from Camp Lejeune, N.C., will make Sports Haven its final stop on the 2008 Great Northeast Tour.

The action-packed Olympic-style amateur event will take place Tuesday, November 18, 7:30pm. It will feature local boxers from USA Boxing Connecticut, taking on the boxers of the USMC Boxing Team.

“This is our fifth consecutive year competing in Connecticut and we are always excited about coming here,” said Sid Meyerson, Marine Corp Community Services (MCCS) Director at Camp Lejeune. “This trip is ever more important to use since there is a huge Marine presence in New Haven, the home of the USMC Sixth Motor Transportation Division, who is playing a major role in the Middle East.”

The format of the event features Veterans Salutations and is expected to draw fans from across the state. Tickets are limited and will be available for sale at Sports Haven starting Thursday, October 23rd. General Admission tickets are $20, while reserved ringside are $35. All proceeds from the event will benefit Beat Street Community Center, Meriden, CT, and the MCCS. Attendees must be ages 18 and over.

The Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune, is one of the largest Marine Corps installations in the United States, and is the proud home of the All Marine Boxing Team. While this elite team spends some of their time training for the ring, they spend their lives training for global warfare on the field. Many of the team’s members have served tours of duty in Iraq as part of America’s Fight Against terrorism. The team is led by Coach Ron Smith, USAF Retired.

The Beat The Street Community Center, located in Meriden, CT, offers residents of Meriden and surrounding communities a variety of services including fitness training, boxing instructions, and life skills. Many of the Center’s programs are conducted by volunteers who work to empower residents and improve the community.

Program Kiosk

2008-10-15T14:29:00.002-04:00

You can never have too much information when playing the races. To ensure that all the track data is available, Sports Haven has added a programs kiosk. The kiosk will serve to supplement the programs that are already being sold at our current stand.

Located on the main floor next to the stage, this self-service, touch screen kiosk has many benefits:

Includes all thoroughbred, harness, greyhound and jai-alai tracks
Program info for today and tomorrow
Can buy single card DRF
Can create your own tip sheet based on track conditions and other preferences
Programs cost $1.25 for most formats
Buy a 3-track bundle for $3.50
Kiosk will print your program within seconds

Check it out or ask a manager for a demonstration.

Breeders' Cup Info

2008-10-11T16:17:00.005-04:00

The Breeders' Cup, the World Championship of Racing, will be run Friday October 24, and Saturday, October 25, 2008 at Santa Anita Park in Southern California. Five Breeders Cup races will be run on Friday in addition to the 9 Breeders Cup races on Saturday.

Please note the following:

· Advanced wagering will be accepted beginning at 12 noon on Friday on the entire Saturday Breeders’ Cup card, including the 9 Breeders’ Cup Races. The program will consist of 11 races, with first post time at 1:10 P.M. The Breeders’ Cup Races are Races 1-9.
· Five Breeders’ Cup races will be run on Friday’s Santa Anita program. Friday 1st race post time will be 2:05 with the Breeders Cup races ( races 3-7 ) beginning at 3:35. Wagering available Friday only.

· The Breeders’ Cup Pick 6, which will have a $ 3 million guaranteed pool, will be held on Races 4-9 on the Saturday Breeders’ Cup Day Program. Wagering on the Breeders’ Cup Pick 6 will close at post time of Race 4 (3:15). The Breeders’ Cup Pick 6 will be a $ 2 minimum wager, commingled nationally, with identical payouts at all sites. Tickets with all six winners will share 75 % of the net pool, while tickets with 5 of 6, will share the remaining 25 % of the net pool. If no ticket correctly selects all six winners, 100 % of the net pool will be shared by tickets with the most winners.

· All Autotote locations will be open for wagering at regular time (11:30AM) on Friday. All sites will open at 9:30 a.m. on Breeders’ Cup Day, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008.

Thursday Afternoon Contest Continues

2008-10-07T11:53:00.000-04:00

The Thursday contest continues to be popular. It's easy to play and free to enter.

How good are your picks from Belmont? Test your skills against other racing fans every Thursday at Sports Haven. It could win you $200. Simply select the winner in any five races at the New York Track. The person with the highest total payoffs wins the prize.

The good thing about the contest is that you can enter up until about 3:00 PM. As long as there are at least five races left on the race card, you can put in your entry.

CT Crush New Year's Eve Fundraiser

2008-10-03T11:16:00.004-04:00

Sports Haven will host the Connecticut Crush Womens Football Team fundraiser on New Year's Eve. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance. Just visit the The CT Crush Website for more information.

Who are the Crush? They're Connecticut’s first semi-professional women’s football team. They play full-contact, NFL style football. They wear the same gear and sweat it out just like the men do. But they are women who love football. They are pioneers who hold full and part time jobs in addition to committing to a full practice and game schedule. The team includes mothers, wives, teachers, policewomen, firewomen, entrepreneurs, college graduates, and students.

Some of are former NCAA Division I and II competitors in basketball, softball, soccer, and track. Some are trying sports for the very first time.

Check them out!

Sports Haven Football Contest

2008-10-02T14:09:00.000-04:00

FREE TO ENTER, EASY TO PLAY

Someone will win the $1,000 grand prize!!!

Plus - $240 worth of prizes each week.

Here’s how it works.

· Log on to Our contest Page and register to play.

· Pick the winners in the Sunday & Monday Games every week.

· Guess the total points during Monday Night Game to break any ties.

· Weekly Prize – Person with most wins each week wins: $50 Silks Restaurant at Sports Haven Gift Certificate & $50 Wagering voucher (tie-breaker is closest to total points scored on Monday Night).

·Places 2nd – 15th weekly win $10 gift certificate to Silks Restaurant at Sports Haven.

· Top 15 each week also entered into the grand prize drawing for $1,000!

· Drawing takes place on final week of regular season, December 28th.

· Enter every week. The more weeks you enter, the more chances you have for the $1,000!

Sports Haven, Long Wharf Drive, New Haven, features the NFL ticket - every game, every week. Enjoy $1.99 drafts while cheering your favorite team. Check out our 14 flavors of wings, both boneless and original, from Planet Wings.

Karaoke Pictures

2008-10-01T15:07:00.002-04:00

Sing on the big stage at Sports Haven every Thursday Night!

Dog & Pony Show Live Money Contest

2008-09-25T21:27:00.000-04:00

The next Autotote Live Money Contest will be a Dog & Pony Show. The winner will qualify for the Coast Casino Horseplayer World Series in 2009.

Here’s how it works:

*Saturday, October 11
*$25 Entry Fee, Plus players must purchase a $100 contest card
*Must wager on at least five races from Palm Beach AND at least five horse races from Belmont and/or Philadelphia
*All bets must total at least $10
*Win, Place, and show wagering on thoroughbred races
*Win, place, show and quinella wagers for Palm Beach races
*Players keep all pari-mutuel winnings
*Can play at any Autotote branch or through On The Wire phone wagering.
*Prize pool paid out through fourth place.
*Complete rules can be found on www.ctotb.com
*Or call 203-946-3140

Random Pictures

2008-09-12T11:46:00.003-04:00

The first picture is from the Jimmy Buffet tribute band.

Prime Rib Meal- Every Friday

2008-09-08T11:46:00.000-04:00

The prime rib is great, and you're getting an entire dinner, including all the trimmings and dessert.

Watch The NFL at Sports Haven

2008-09-03T16:32:00.002-04:00

Sports Haven features the Sunday Ticket - with every game, every week. Enjoy all the heart-pounding action as you can watch your favorite teams and cheer for your fantasy players.

At Sports Haven, you can have a sit-down dinner, or enjoy wings and a drink. And these aren’t just any old chicken wings. Sports Haven features Planet Wings, with 14 flavors of original and boneless.

Free Parking, Free Admission, Free Football!!!

Labor Day Live Money Contest

2008-08-27T09:15:00.002-04:00

Labor Day Live Money Contest – The Saratoga meet will end on Labor Day, September 1 and Sports Haven will send it off with a live-money handicapping contest. The entry fee will be $20 and you keep all pari-mutuel earnings. It's a $2,000 winner take-all prize.

The rules are simple. Play any races you like from the Saratoga card. The minimum wager is $2 on each race, win, place, only; one horse per race. The person with the most money in their account at the end of the contest will take home the prize. Play as many races as you like and for any amount that you like, as long as, at the end of the day, you have wagered at least $20.

For complete rules, visit www.ctotb.com

Random Pictures - Sports Haven

2008-08-15T11:57:00.001-04:00

Directions to Sports Haven

2008-08-10T11:26:00.000-04:00

Directions:
Sports Haven is located on 600 Long Wharf Drive in the Long Wharf section of New Haven.

I-95 North Exit 46, left at bottom of ramp. Follow straight to Sports Haven.

I-95 South Exit 46, right at bottom of ramp. First right under underpass, at light turn left.Follow to Sports Haven.

I-91 South Exit 2 - to second light take right (East Street) follow to Sports Haven

RT. 84 East Exit 11 (RT. 34) right at light, right onto RT. 34. Follow RT. 34 to Boulevard, right at light to I-95 follow directions above for I-95 North.

Have a Private Party at Sports Haven

2008-08-08T13:51:00.004-04:00

Sports Haven features private VIP suites for groups of up to 50. For larger groups, we utilize one of the many different sections within the building to host your function.

All parties include free programs, tips sheets, and help with playing the races. All your food & beverage needs are handled by are staff. For more information on packages for your event, contact our food service department at 203-946-3288.

Sports Haven has hosted all types of parties over the years: bachelor parties, retirement dinners, cocktail events, charity functions, birthday celebrations, business meetings, holiday parties, and more.

The Travers Stakes

2008-08-06T10:06:00.001-04:00

THE TRAVERS, also known as “The Mid-Summer Derby,” is the oldest stakes race for three-year-olds in the United States and the highlight of the Saratoga meeting. This year's running will be on Saturday, August 23rd.

The race is named for the first president of Saratoga Race Course, Mr. William R. Travers, who won its inaugural running in 1864, with a horse called Kentucky.

Player Rewards Program

2008-08-02T09:54:00.000-04:00

Those yellow cards that players are using at Sports Haven are part of Autotote's Player Rewards system. By using the card, the more you play, the more points you earn, giving you an opportunity to receive great merchandise, racing programs, restaurant and snack bar certificates, and Trophy Bucks.

You'll earn Trophy Points every time you play. As you accumulate Trophy Points, you can redeem them for food and drink, merchandise and Trophy Bucks. What are Trophy Bucks? They are coupons that you use to place wagers. Throughout the year, there will be a number of opportunities to earn additional points. A complete rewards list will be posted at your local branch and on the Autotote web site, http://www.ctotb.com/. Items are subject to change and availability.

Once you've joined the Club, you'll be issued a permanent membership card. The Trophy Club card may be presented to a teller or you can use it at any of the self-serve machines. It's easy to use. Just slide it into the card reader. Your activity will be recorded and you will automatically be credited with Trophy Points. To redeem your points, present your card and a driver's license or picture identification to a branch manager or customer service representative, who will issue a coupon for the item.

Saratoga Promotions at Sports Haven

2008-07-31T09:41:00.002-04:00

With several promotions going on with Saratoga, the summer at Sports Haven will be a lot of fun. Here is a summery of current Saratoga events:

Bonus Trophy Club Points - Trophy Club members earn bonus trophy club points on all EXOTIC wagers on Saratoga. This includes exactas, trifectas, superfectas, daily doubles, Pick-3, Pick – 4 and Pick – 6. Just swipe your Trophy Club Card before making a wager, or use your On The Wire Phone wagering account. If you’re not a member of the Trophy Club, see a manager to sign up – it’s free and easy to join.

Thursday NYRA Challenge – The Thursday NYRA contest will continue. Pick any five races from the Saratoga card and select who you think will win each of those races. The person with the highest pay-offs wins $200. Contest available at both Sports Haven and Shoreline Star.

New Haven Register Online Challenge – Each day of Saratoga, sports writers Dan Nowak, Bob Ehalt and Bill Clouthier will be making their selections in the featured race. You can play along and enter for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to Silks Restaurant at Sports Haven. Just log on to www.handicappingcontests.net and sign up for free. Make your selection in the designated race, and everyone who has the winning horse is entered to win! You can play every day of the Saratoga meet.

FREE Seminar & Contest – Every Saturday during Saratoga, one of the Register Sports writers will hold a free handicapping seminar, starting at noon. In addition, you can enter a Saratoga handicapping contest. It’s free and easy to play – plus the winner takes home $250! The top ten finishers win a free entry in the live-money handicapping contest on Labor Day.

Labor Day Live Money Contest – The Saratoga meet will end on Labor Day, September 1 and Sports Haven will send it off with a live-money handicapping contest. The entry fee will be $20 and you keep all pari-mutuel earnings. It’s a $2,000 winner take-all prize.

Complete rules these promotions can be found on www.ctotb.com

Saratoga Post Times: Saratoga post time is 1:00 PM daily, except: Friday, July 25 (2:45 PM); Saturday, August 23 (Noon – Travers Stakes Day); and Friday, August 29 (2:45 PM). Dark on Tuesdays.

Watch and wager on all the action on Sports Haven, located on Long Wharf Drive in New Haven. Sports Haven features movie size screens, hundreds of TV monitors, the Shark Bar, Silks Restaurant, and a food court featuring Planet Wings. Doors open at 11:30 AM daily with free parking & free admission.

FREE SARATOGA SEMINARS & CONTEST

2008-07-24T11:10:00.001-04:00

ENTER TO WIN $250

Be sure to come to Sports Haven every Saturday during the Saratoga meet to participate in a racing seminar by one of the sports writers from the New Haven Register.

There will also be a free handicapping contest with the $250 going to the winner. It’s free to enter and easy to play. Top 10 finishers in the contest qualify for a free entry in the finals on Labor Day. The finals are a live money contest and include a top prize of $2,000!!

No purchase necessary. Complete rules can be found at www.ctotb.com.

BLACKstreet to Perform at Sports Haven

2008-07-23T10:53:00.000-04:00

Sports Haven will host an Old School 80s & 90s affair featuring the popular group, Blackstreet.

Blackstreet was one the top R&B vocal groups of the 1990's and gained fame on their smash hit, "No Diggity."

The band will be at Sports Haven on July 26th. Tickets are $25 in advance or $35 at the door. The night will also feature DJ Marley Marl and upcoming artist Beez Portiya. The party starts at 9:00 PM.

Advance tickets are available at the Sports Haven Program Stand (cash only).

Come early for the show and enjoy dinner at Silks Restaurant, located on the second level. Sports Haven also features the best wings in town with 14 flavors from Planet Wings, located on the main floor in the food court.

For more information, call Sports Haven at 203-946-3100.

Saratoga Challenge

2008-07-21T11:05:00.003-04:00

Sports Haven and the New Haven Register will offer Saratoga contests all summer long.

This one is available online. Each day of Saratoga, sports writers Bill Clouthier, Bob Ehalt, and Dan Nowak from the New Haven Register will make their selection on the designated race. The writer who has the highest total payoffs at the end of the contest will win a $1,000 donation to the charity of his choice.

You can play along and make your selections. Log on to www.handicappingcontests.net Each day, you can make your selections on the featured race. Patrons who pick the winner are entered in a drawing to win a dining gift certificate at Sports Haven.

Complete rules can be found on the contest website.

Hours of Operation

2008-07-07T10:51:00.000-04:00

Sports Haven is open 7 days a week, at 11:30 AM. During the week, we close at Midnight, with Friday and Saturday's open until 1:00 AM. Sunday we close after the mid-afternoon tracks finish, around 6 - 7 PM.

Planet Wings in the food court is also open 7 days a week at 11:30 AM.
The restaurant is open Wednesday - Sunday for lunch, and Friday & Saturday for dinner.

Betting on Horse Racing For Dummies

2008-06-30T12:29:00.001-04:00

There are countless books written about horse racing, but one of the best beginners books on playing the races is written by Richard Eng.

Betting on Horse Racing for Dummies is an easy-to-understand guide that shows first-timer how to enjoy the sport of horse racing-and make smart bets. It explains what goes on at the track, what to look for in horses and jockeys, how to read a racing form and do simple handicapping, and how to manage betting funds and make wagers that stand a good chance of paying off. Complete with coverage of off-track and online betting, it's just what anyone needs to play the ponies-and win!

Richard Eng (Las Vegas, NV) is a racing writer and handicapper for the Las Vegas Review-Journal, a columnist for the Daily Racing Form, and the host of a horseracing radio program in Las Vegas. He was formerly a part of the ABC Sports team that covered the Triple Crown.

The 14 Flavors of Wings

2008-06-27T09:57:00.000-04:00

It's great having 14 flavors of Planet Wings at Sports Haven, as wings lovers can try a variety and see what they like best. But what are the 14 flavors we're always raving about? Here's the list:

1. Mild
2. Medium
3. Hot
4. Suicidal
5. Lemon Pepper
6. Jamaican Jerk
7. Leapin' Lizard
8. BBQ
9. Teriyaki
10. Roasted Garlic BBQ
11. Gourmet Garlic
12. Hot BBQ
13. Honey BBQ
14. Parmesan Pepper

Sixty Minute Pick-6

2008-06-18T12:01:00.000-04:00

Connecticut Off-Track Betting, including Sports Haven, will take wagering on the Sixty Minute Pick-6 Wager. Here is how it works.

Here are some of the highlights:
(1) The Sixty Minute 6 is a pick six made up of a half-dozen races rotating between four different tracks (Monmouth Park, NYRA, Philadelphia Park, and Delaware Park)
(2) All races in Sixty Minute 6 the will be run within a one-hour time period between approximately (3:40 PM and 4:30 PM EDT)
(3) The Sixty Minute 6 will be held every Saturday from June 21st through August 30th
(4) The Sixty Minute 6 will have a $100,000 pool guarantee on the first Saturday, June 21st
(5) The Sixty Minute 6 program information is available to download from your vendor as a separate file.
(6) The Sixty Minute 6 takeout rate is 25%.
(7) Information for this $2 base wager will be available through Philadelphia Park – www.philadelphiapark.com

So saddle up and get tied on for the Sixty Minute 6 every Saturday afternoon beginning June 21st

Connecticut Off-Track Betting (CT OTB)

2008-06-17T16:24:00.000-04:00

Sports Haven (New Haven, CT) is one of ten branches that are commonly referred to as the Connecticut Off-Track Betting System. Although this is largest facility, there are two other so-called 'premier' locations. The other two are the Bradley Teletheater in Windsor Locks, and Shoreline Star in Bridgeport.

Just because the other branches are aren't big, doesn't mean you can't enjoy the heart-pounding action. All of our branch locations feature live racing action where you can watch and wager on the best thoroughbred, harness, greyhound and jai-alai action from across the country.

Although this blog is focused on Sports Haven, you can find more information about our entire operations at CT OTB

How to Play The Races

2008-06-14T17:18:00.000-04:00

There are various strategies when you want to pick a horse. Plus, there are several ways to bet your horse...win, place, show....or if there are two horses you like, maybe you want to play the exacta.

It may sound overwhelming to a beginner, but once you understand the basics, it starts to become second nature. Here is an instruction guide on How To Play the Races.

And if you have any questions, our staff at Sports Haven is always ready to lend a hand.

Planet Wings at Sports Haven

2008-06-12T11:12:00.000-04:00

People always ask us what our favorite wing flavors are.... but, with so many flavors, how do you choose? The fun part about working in a building with Planet Wings is that eventually, you get try them all.

You can try the standards - mild, medium and hot...and for those who are more daring...suicidal - which are some of the best buffalo wing sauces you'll ever taste.

But there are also some great non-buffalo flavors...honey BBQ, Jamaican Jerk, and Leapin Lizard tend to be favorites among several of the employees. In addition to the wings, Planet Wings at Sports Haven offers sandwiches, salads, burgers, Philly cheese steaks and more! And be sure to check out the Max Meals, which come with curly fries and a soda. The fries are addicting.

You can dine in or take your meal to go. With 14 flavors and so many other choices, you'll keep coming back for more.

Stay Cool At Sports Haven

2008-06-10T11:26:00.000-04:00

"Wow, it's hot out there," has been a common comment the last few days. But, you can stay cool at Sports Haven.

As soon as you walk in, you feel the air temperature change to a nice, comfortable, cool.

The Shark Bar is stocked with your favorite cold beverages and a salad from Planet Wings or Silk's Restaurant will help cool you off.

Belmont Stakes at Sports Haven

2008-06-06T16:42:00.001-04:00

Doors open 10:00 AM on Saturday for Belmont Stakes Day as Big Brown tries to join an elite group of horses. He will attempt to become racing's 12th Triple Crown Winner and the first since 1978 when Affirmed accomplished the feat!

The 140th running of the Belmont Stakes is race #11 from Belmont Park, with a post time of 6:33 PM. Enjoy $2 Bud Selects and enter to win a big-screen TV which will be given away after the race at Sports Haven.

There will be a $1 Million guaranteed Pick Six on races 6-11 at Belmont. If no one selects all 6 winners, there will be a carryover.

There will be a $1 million guaranteed Pick 4 on races 8 – 11. Minimum wager is $1.

Autotote Enterprises owns and operates the Off-Track Betting System in Connecticut, including Sports Haven on 600 Long Wharf Drive in New Haven, Shoreline Star in Bridgeport (Kossuth Street) , and the Bradley Teletheater in Windsor Locks, across from the Bradley International Airport.

Autotote owns RaceView Centers in Bristol (16 Barlow Street), Hartford (121 Brainard Road), and New Britain (Newbrite Plaza, East Main St.) Other locations include East Haven at 65 Frontage Road; Norwalk on Burnell Boulevard in the Norwalk Mall; Torrington (1703 East Main Street) and Waterbury at 155 Thomaston Avenue. In addition, Autotote operates the On The Wire phone wagering service. More information can be found on Autotote’s website, www.ctotb.com.

St. Jude's Benefit at Sports Haven

2008-06-04T16:04:00.001-04:00

Friday, June 6th. A Benefit show to support St. Jude's Hospital~
A Night of Rockin' Blues with Chris DePino & Don't Tell Muddy
8:00 PM. Tickets are only $20 with proceeds to benefit St. Jude's Hospital.

Enjoy the show while supporting a great charity.

Belmont Stakes at Sports Haven and CT OTB

2008-06-03T11:55:00.000-04:00

Big Brown tries to make history in the Belmont Stakes, Saturday June 7th. He will attempt to become racing's 12th Triple Crown Winner and the first since 1978 when Affirmed accomplished the feat!

The 140th running of the Belmont Stakes is race #11 from Belmont Park, with a post time of 6:33 PM. The first race from Belmont goes off at Noon.

Advance wagering on the race will start on Friday, June 6, at Sports Haven and all CT OTB locations.

On Saturday, all branches will open at 10:00 AM.

Wagering will be offered on the Brooklyn/Belmont Double, a Daily Double wager combining the Brooklyn Handicap (run Friday) and the Belmont Stakes (run Saturday). This is a $1 minimum wager and will be available until post time of the Brooklyn Handicap, approx. 5:12 PM on Friday.
There will be a $1 Million guaranteed Pick Six on races 6-11 at Belmont. If no one selects all 6 winners, there will be a carryover.

There will be a $1 million guaranteed Pick 4 on races 8 – 11. Minimum wager is $1.

Autotote Enterprises owns and operates the Off-Track Betting System in Connecticut, including Sports Haven on 600 Long Wharf Drive in New Haven, Shoreline Star in Bridgeport (Kossuth Street) , and the Bradley Teletheater in Windsor Locks, across from the Bradley International Airport.

Autotote owns RaceView Centers in Bristol (16 Barlow Street), Hartford (121 Brainard Road), and New Britain (Newbrite Plaza, East Main St.)

Other locations include East Haven at 65 Frontage Road; Norwalk on Burnell Boulevard in the Norwalk Mall; Torrington (1703 East Main Street) and Waterbury at 155 Thomaston Avenue.

In addition, Autotote operates the On The Wire phone wagering service. More information can be found on Autotote’s website, www.ctotb.com.

Silks' Restaurant at Sports Haven

2008-05-29T15:19:00.000-04:00

The changes at Silks' Restaurant at Sports Haven have been well received. New colors, new logo, new atmosphere, and of course, a brand new menu. The menu features something for everyone, from appetizers to soups, to salads, to sandwiches, to entrees and of course, leave room for dessert.

Maybe you want to start your meal with our N.Y Calamari (sauteed in olive oil, garlic, spicy red peppers & sherry, topped with Romano cheese), followed by "The Godfather" Sandwich....which is handmade meatballs & sweet Italian sausage topped with marinara and mozzarella on a toasted grinder.

In the mood for an entree instead? Try the Napa Valley Pasta - sauteed artichokes, sun dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and roasted garlic with grilled chicken and shrimp toast in whole wheat penne topped with shaved parmesan cheese. Or, enjoy Jumbo Spinach ravioli sauteed in a sun dried tomato, fresh basil vodka sauce with prosciutto.

There is also a selection of steaks and seafood. The Blacksmith Steak has caught a lot of attention - It's a top sirloin steak, blackened and flat grilled topped with sauteed onions, mushrooms, and a Gorgonzola Cream Sauce.

Silks' Restaurant is open Wednesday - Sunday for lunch, and Friday & Saturday for dinner. For more info, call 203-946-3252. Enjoy all the racing action with TV's on every table and live tellers taking your wagers.

Sports Haven - Open Daily

2008-05-24T17:08:00.001-04:00

Sports Haven is open 7 days a week, at 11:30 AM. During the week, we generally close around Midnight, with Friday and Saturday's open until 1:00 AM. Sunday we close after the mid-afternoon tracks finish, around 6 - 7 PM.

Planet Wings in the food court is also open 7 days a week at 11:30 AM.

The restaurant is open Wednesday - Sunday for lunch, and Friday & Saturday for dinner.

Sports Haven features free parking and free admission

Bonus Trophy Club Points

2008-05-22T17:02:00.000-04:00

Play the Trifecta at Delaware, Philadelphia Park, Mountaineer, or Suffolk Downs for Bonus Trophy Club Points!

Jai-Alai Still Going Strong in Florida

2008-05-12T09:40:00.000-04:00

We often get questions about the sport of Jai-Alai. Thought to be the world's fastest ball-game, Jai-Alai once had a huge following in Connecticut. At one point, three frontons could be found across the state.

Now adays, the only major frontons in the United States are located in Florida. The good news, is that you can watch all the action from Dania and Miami Jai-Alai while at Sports Haven. In fact, there is an entire section of the building dedicated to fans of the game. It's not as fun as actually being at a live Jai-Alai event, but for those looking to enjoy the game, it isn't totally extinct.

To get info about Dania Jai-Alai, http://www.dania-jaialai.com/
To check out Miami Jai-Alai info, check out http://www.fla-gaming.com/miami/index.html
There is also a good site which talks about the history and rules of the game:
http://www.fla-gaming.com/#Jai-Alai-World's%20Fastest%20Game

New Restaurant Menu

2008-05-06T11:54:00.000-04:00

The second level at Sports Haven has gone through some changes over the last several weeks. New colors, new staff shirts, new atmosphere, and of course, a brand new menu.

The menu features something for everyone, from appetizers to soups, to salads, to sandwiches, to entrees and of course, leave room for dessert.

Maybe you want to start your meal with our Teriyaki Steak Skewers, followed by "The Godfather" Sandwich....which is handmade meatballs & sweet Italian sausage topped with marinara and mozzarella on a toasted grinder.

In the mood for something more then a sandwich? Try the Napa Valley Pasta - sauteed artichokes, sun dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and roasted garlic with grilled chicken and shrimp toast in whole wheat penne topped with shaved parmesan cheese.

There is also a selection of steaks and seafood. Silks' Restaurant is open Wednesday - Sunday for lunch, and Friday & Saturday for dinner. For more info, call 203-946-3252.

A Busy Kentucky Derby Day

2008-05-05T15:30:00.000-04:00

It was great to see everyone who came by for the Derby. A lot of new faces, a lot of familiar faces, and a fun time for all. You could feel the buzz in the air as we got closer and closer to the race, and the energy in the building was amazing.

The race (the good and the tragic) have been well covered by the media, so there is no need to go into the details here. But hopefully everyone who came to Sports Haven this weekend had a great experience. The staff had a busy but fun time and enjoyed interacting with everyone.

14 Flavors of Wings at Sports Haven

2008-04-30T23:08:00.000-04:00

With so many flavors, how do you choose? The fun part about working in a building with Planet Wings is that eventually, you get try them all.

We offer the standards, mild, medium, and hot....and for those that are more daring....suicidal!
But there are also some great non-buffalo flavors...honey BBQ and Leapin Lizard tend to be favorites among several of the employees. Leapin Lizard has just the right amount of sweet and hot at the same time.

In addition to the wings, Planet Wings at Sports Haven offers sandwiches, salads, burgers, Philly Cheesesteaks and more! And be sure to check out the Max Meals, which come with curly fries and a soda.

With 14 flavors and so many other choices, you'll keep coming back for more.

Billy Joel Tribute at Sports Haven

2008-04-30T10:04:00.001-04:00

52nd Street, the longest running tribute to the legendary Billy Joel, will be at Sports Haven on Friday Night, May 2. The show is free before 9:00 PM, with a $10 charge after.

In addition, they'll be $2 Bud Select Bottles and $3 Bud Light Lime bottles. Plus the best wings in town from Planet Wings -- With 14 flavors!

Come in early and check out our restaurant menu, featuring a great variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts.

There is always plenty of free parking at Sports Haven.

Enter to Win a TV

2008-04-30T10:01:00.000-04:00

The Drive to the Triple Crown Contest is in full swing with the Kentucky Derby Just Days away. During each leg of the Triple Crown, New Haven Register Sports write Dan Nowak will make his selection.

You can play along and try to beat Nowak’s picks. Just pick up an entry form at Sports Haven, Bristol RaceView Center, New Britain RaceView Center or Torrington RaceView Center. Or, you can enter online at www.handicappingcontests.net.

It’s easy to play, and free to enter. All you have to do is make your pick for the big race. Players who have the winning horse are put in a drawing for $100 and a gift certificate for dinner at Sports Haven!

In addition, all people who select the winning horse each week are eligible for the grand prize – a big screen television to be given away after the Belmont Stakes. Complete rules are available at www.handicappingcontests.net

Peronsal Pizza at the Food Court

2008-04-29T10:59:00.000-04:00

Sports Haven now offers personal pizza at the food court. The pizza's are fresh and cooked to order.

The action keeps getting better at Sports Haven as does the food! The Food court features the best wings in town from Planet Wings, with 14 flavors to try. Plus we have cheese steaks, burgers, salads, wraps, sandwiches and more.

Plus, now you can get your satisfy your pizza cravings.

Trophy Club Makes Your Play Rewarding

2008-04-22T15:07:00.000-04:00

The Trophy Club is Autotote's rewards program where your play is even more rewarding. You earn points for your play, and the points can be used for food, Racing Forms, programs, Trophy Bucks, and more.

The Trophy Club also offers jewelry from Baribault Jewelers. We feature an entire catalog of equine related jewelry! Plus, if there is something you want, we'll be happy to find it for you and redeem your points accordingly.

The Trophy Club card can be used at any of Autotote's locations. You'll be surprised at how fast your points add up.

Black Dog (Led Zeppelin Tribute)

2008-04-18T10:26:00.000-04:00

This Friday Night's Band is Black Dog.

Black Dog proudly pays tribute to the mighty Led Zeppelin with an extensive catalogue of songs comprised of classic masterpieces like "Dazed and Confused", "Heartbreaker", and "Stairway to Heaven.”

A complete acoustic set recreates an intimate setting with mandolin and custom tuned guitars played on stools, bringing to life songs like "Going to California", "Friends", and "That's the Way".
The show also includes extended versions that recapture the true live experience.
The members established the band in early 2000, and they are all accomplished musicians with considerable experience. Black Dog is the definitive Led Zeppelin tribute band.

The show starts at 10:30 PM. Every week there are $3 drink specials at the bar and restaurant specials. This week's specials include a Steak House Salad ($11.95), Classic Chicken Marsala ($13.95) and Napa Valley Pasta ($14.95). Visit www.ctotb.com/bands.asp for all the details.

It's been a fun band series so far with some great talent....this week won't be any different.

Weekly Happy Hour

2008-04-16T17:15:00.000-04:00

The infamous Shark Bar at Sports Haven features happy hour drink specials Monday through Friday. Bud drafts are $2.00 with Well Drinks for $2.50. Stop by after work and enjoy the specials!

The specials start at 4:00 PM and are available until 7PM

Kentucky Derby Past Winners

2008-04-15T12:23:00.000-04:00

For those who follow the derby, it's always fun to go back and look at the winners over the years. YEAR
WINNER
2007
Street Sense
2006
Barbaro
2005
Giacomo
2004
Smarty Jones
2003
Funny Cide
2002
War Emblem
2001
Monarchos
2000
Fusaichi Pegasus
1999
Charismatic
1998
Real Quiet
1997
Silver Charm
1996
Grindstone
1995
Thunder Gulch
1994
Go For Gin
1993
Sea Hero
1992
Lil E. Tee
1991
Strike The Gold
1990
Unbridled
1989
Sunday Silence
1988
Winning Colors (f)
1987
Alysheba
1986
Ferdinand
1985
Spend A Buck
1984
Swale
1983
Sunny's Halo
1982
Gato Del Sol
1981
Pleasant Colony
1980
Genuine Risk (f)
1979
Spectacular Bid
1978
Affirmed (T)
1977
Seattle Slew (T)
1976
Bold Forbes
1975
Foolish Pleasure
1974
Cannonade
1973
Secretariat (T)
1972
Riva Ridge
1971
Canonero II
1970
Dust Commander
1969
Majestic Prince
1968
Forward Pass
1967
Proud Clarion
1966
Kauai King
1965
Lucky Debonair
1964
Northern Dancer
1963
Chateaugay
1962
Decidedly
1961
Carry Back
1960
Venetian Way
1959
Tomy Lee
1958
Tim Tam
1957
Iron Leige
1956
Needles
1955
Swaps
1954
Determine
1953
Dark Star
1952
Hill Gail
1951
Count Turf
1950
Middleground
1949
Ponder
1948
Citation (T)
1947
Jet Pilot
1946
Assault (T)
1945
Hoop Jr.
1944
Pensive
1943
Count Fleet (T)
1942
Shut Out
1941
Whirlaway (T)
1940
Gallahadion
1939
Johnstown
1938
Lawrin
1937
War Admiral (T)
1936
Bold Venture
1935
Omaha (T)
1934
Cavalcade
1933
Brokers Tip
1932
Burgoo King
1931
Twenty Grand
1930
Gallant Fox (T)
1929
Clyde Van Dusen
1928
Reigh Count
1927
Whiskery
1926
Bubbling Over
1925
Flying Ebony
1924
Black Gold
1923
Zev
1922
Morvich
1921
Behave Yourself
1920
Paul Jones
1919
Sir Barton (T)
1918
Exterminator
1917
Omar Khayham
1916
George Smith
1915
Regret (f)
1914
Old Rosebud
1913
Donerail
1912
WorTD
1911
Meridian
1910
Donau
1909
Wintergreen
1908
Stone Street
1907
Pink Star
1906
Sir Huon
1905
Agile
1904
Elwood
1903
Judge Himes
1902
Alan-a-Dale
1901
His Eminence
1900
Lieut. Gibson
1899
Manuel
1898
Plaudit
1897
Typhoon II
1896
Ben Brush
1895
Halma
1894
Chant
1893
Lookout
1892
Azra
1891
Kingman
1890
Riley
1889
Spokane
1888
Macbeth II
1887
Montrose
1886
Ben Ali
1885
Joe Cotton
1884
Buchanan
1883
Leonatus
1882
Apollo
1881
Hindoo
1880
Fonso
1879
Lord Murphy
1878
Day Star
1877
Baden-Baden
1876
Vagrant
1875
Aristides

Kentucky Derby Day

2008-04-09T14:18:00.000-04:00

You can feel the buzz in the air as Kentucky Derby Day is quickly approaching. The staff here does a great job handling the busy crowds we get for the run for the roses. Here is some basic information on our schedule so you can be prepared for the big day.

The 134th running of the Kentucky Derby will be Saturday, May 3, 2008 from Churchill Downs. Churchill Downs post time is 11:00 a.m. Post time for the Kentucky Derby, which is race #10, will be 6:04 p.m.

Advance wagering on the Kentucky Derby will begin Thursday, May 1, 2008.

There will be no coupled entries or mutuel fields. All horses will run as separate betting interests with a maximum 20 horse field possible.

On Friday, May 2, (Kentucky Oaks Day) Sports Haven will open at 10:00 A.M. Churchill first post will be 11:00am.

Saturday, May 3, (Derby Day) we will also open at 10:00 A.M.

Wagering on the Derby Double will also be offered again this year. This wager involves a Daily Double on the Kentucky Oaks, (run Friday) and the Kentucky Derby. This wager will be run under normal daily double rules, and will be commingled with Churchill Downs. Wagering will open on Thursday, May 1 and will close at post time of the Kentucky Oaks, aprox. 5:45 on Friday, May 2.

If you have any questions, contact us at 203-946-3201

New Color in the Restaurant

2008-04-02T13:33:00.000-04:00

For those of you who have visited the Turf Club Restaurant recently, you might have noticed something different. The restaurant is in the process of being painted. Let us know what you think of the new colors!

New menu to be introduced soon.

Bon Jovi Tribute at Sports Haven

2008-04-01T10:52:00.000-04:00

The bands continue to be fun every week. This Friday Night, it's Runaway, the ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute Band.

The show starts at 10:15PM. Admission is free before 9:00 PM, $10 after. If you come early, be sure to check out our bar and dinner specials.

The unique complex is a great place to see live entertainment. You can come early and enjoy dinner in the Turf Club Restaurant and try our weekly specials, all priced at $15.99 or below. Or, you can sit at the Shark Bar and try our drink specials while watching tropical fish swim around a coral reef. Sports Haven also features Planet Wings at the food court, serving 14 flavors of wings, sandwiches, salads and more.

Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show

2008-03-14T12:56:00.000-04:00

Parrothead fans unite!!! Friday, March 28th.

Parrot Beach, the ultimate Jimmy Buffett tribute show, will be at Sports Haven. Admission is free before 9:00 PM. There is a cover charge after 9:00 PM, but if you'd like free admission passes, fill out out the contact form here and write free tix as the subject line. http://www.ctotb.com/contact.asp

Each week, Sports Haven will be your place for live bands in Connecticut. Every Friday Night, it's "under the covers" featuring cover and tribute bands!!

Bonus Trophy Club Points - Tampa Bay Downs

2008-03-14T12:53:00.000-04:00

Sports Haven's player rewards program, the Trophy Club, is offering bonus points on Tampa Bay Downs. All you have to do is use your card when playing Tampa Bay on Saturday's and Sunday's in March. The points will be automatically credited to your account.

Sports Haven is open daily at 11:30 AM. You can watch and wager on the best thoroughbred, harness, greyhound and jai-alai action from across the country.

Thursday Handicapping Contest

2008-03-13T09:58:00.000-04:00

The Thursday Handicapping Contest continues in December!

Play every week!

How good are your Aqueduct picks? Test your skills against other racing fans every Thursday at Sports Haven. It could win you $200. Simply select the winner in any five races at Aqueduct. The person with the highest total payoffs wins the prize.

For complete rules logon to http://www.ctotb.com/Monthly%20Newsletter%20page.asp#Pigskin_&_Ponies_Contest__

PLR Wing Eating Contest Pictures

2008-02-12T12:02:00.003-05:00

PLR Annual Holiday Toy Drive Pictures

2007-12-28T12:12:00.006-05:00

Trophy Club - Player Rewards Program

2007-12-07T10:03:00.000-05:00

The trophy club is Autotote's (owner and operator of Sports Haven) innovative player rewards program. The more you play, the more points you earn, giving you an opportunity to receive great merchandise, racing programs, restaurant and snack bar certificates, and Trophy Bucks.

You'll earn Trophy Points every time you play. As you accumulate Trophy Points, you can redeem them for food and drink, merchandise and Trophy Bucks. What are Trophy Bucks? They are coupons that you use to place wagers.

Throughout the year, there will be a number of opportunities to earn additional points.
A complete rewards list will be posted at your local branch and on the Autotote web site, http://www.ctotb.com/. Items are subject to change and availability.

Once you've joined the Club, you'll be issued a permanent membership card. The Trophy Club card may be presented to a teller or you can use it at any of the self-serve machines. It's easy to use. Just slide it into the card reader. Your activity will be recorded and you will automatically be credited with Trophy Points. To redeem your points, present your card and a driver's license or picture identification to a branch manager or customer service representative, who will issue a coupon for the item.

Watch the NFL at Sports Haven

2007-11-27T14:47:00.000-05:00

Sports Haven features the NFL Package, including every games, every week. Check out all the action while enjoying food and drink specials.