A 14 race card at Pocono Downs at Mohegan Pennsylvania got some added star power on Tuesday, May 5, with UFC Champ Charles “Do Bronx” Oliveira da Silva making his official United States pari-mutuel driving debut in the 13th race.
Charles Oliveira (inside)
James Kennedy (outside)
The excitement was palpable on the track apron as race 12 finished, and the eager fans awaited the appearance of the 36-year-old champ, who has often said that horses and harness racing are “his true passion”.
As announcer Jim Beviglia called the horses out for post parade, “Do Bronx” joined the field on the track, which included top drivers Tyler Buter, Ridge Warren, Braxten Boyd, and Anthony Napolitano. In a nail-biting stretch-drive, “Do Bronx” and Kashed Up A missed the win by just a nose to James Kennedy and Ill Play It Alone. The final time was 1:54.2.
He was met with loud cheering as he drove back to the paddock, and the fans eagerly awaited a glimpse of the champ outside on the track apron.
“It’s cool how he jumped sports,” said Ryan from Wilkes Barre. “I’ve seen him in person before, and this was awesome. I’ve been to the Belmont Stakes, but this is the first time I’ve seen harness racing.”
“And a photo finish!” he added. “He’s certainly competitive.”
Jackson came from Philadelphia to see the champ. “It’s Charles Oliveira! He’s the best and most beloved fighter in the UFC! And I love horse racing, so it’s amazing, and he wore number 5, so I had to be here. I just had to be here.” As for if he was going to see him in the bike again when he drives at Harrah’s Philadelphia, Jackson answered with an emphatic ‘Yes!’
“The race was amazing, but too close,” said Ryan. “If that’s what he likes, then that’s what he likes. I’m going to support it. The next race, he’s going to win it. Put some money on it,” he laughed. “Bet the house!”
“I’ve been watching him for years,” said Larry from Wilkes Barre. “It’s cool to see him racing in our home town, and put on an event like this. I wish he won! But awesome to be here!”
Larry was thrilled to be able to get up close to the champ. “He was awesome to meet! Super personable and very friendly.”
Corey brought along some items to be autographed, and was thrilled to be able to meet “Do Bronx” and get a photo. “He shook my hand and I told him congratulations on his debut, and very proud of how he did in his first race here. Very very close race. Closer than anyone imagined.”
He admits he didn’t wager on this race, but he’s looking ahead to the next one. “I’m tossing a couple pretty pennies on my boy Charles!”
Joey from Colorado was sure that Charles won the race, and was a little disappointed but still excited to see the action. “A big-time fighter, the BMF holder, to horse racing. Kind of wild. We want to see it again! We need him back here at Pocono Downs!”
“I’ve been a fan of Charles for years,” said Eamon from Pittston. “I watched UFC for probably ten years, ever since he got into the UFC. He’s a great guy!”
Trainer Hunter Oakes hung around after the race to meet Charles. “I wish I had a horse for him,” Hunter laughed. “He did use my race bike! It’s got a little bit more character to it now.”
Hunter brought some of his buddies with him, snd noticed some new faces enjoying the day. “There were new people out here for sure. Tuesday afternoon is tough, but maybe we will get him back here again!” And Hunter hopes this time on a Hunter Oakes horse!
Oliveira will be driving at MGM Yonkers on Friday, May 8, and Harrah’s Philadelphia on Sunday, May 10.
UFC champ ‘Do Bronx’ set for U.S. pari-mutuel debut at Pocono – U.S. Trotting News
Cover Image Credit to Curtis Salonick photo
