EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ (January 6, 2017) - The public pumped
$3,311,264 through the wagering windows on the 13-race card at the Meadowlands
on Friday night. The total represents a nearly 15-percent increase over the
corresponding date last year, which featured 14 races.
On the track, despite back-to-back wins as the favorite
since returning to the Meadowlands, Crosbys Clam Bake was overshadowed in the
wagering as stakes-winner Muscle Diamond was sent off as the 3-5 favorite in
the $18,000 trotting feature.
Crosbys Clam Bake would not be denied as the
seven-year-old son of Kadabra held off the late charge of the public's choice
to win in gate-to-wire fashion for his third straight victory. B Yoyo rallied
to grab third.
Jim Marohn, Jr. put Crosbys Clam Bake on the lead through
an opening quarter of 27.2. He continued his march on top through a half mile
in 55.4 and three-quarters in 1:25. Opulent Yankee loomed first over while
giving Muscle Diamond and John Campbell a perfect second-over tow. Muscle
Diamond kicked off his cover at the top of the stretch, but could not get to
Crosbys Clam Bake in 1:53.3.
Andy Federico, Jr. trains Crosbys Clam Bake for owners
Randy Bendis, Jack Piatt, and Tom Pollack.
"He's remarkable and has been so sharp all
year," said Marohn. "He's just as good this January as he was this
time last year. Andy does a great job with him and believe me, he's not as easy
horse to manage. I'm very grateful for the opportunity to drive him."
Crosbys Clam Bake earned his 32nd career win and
increased his lifetime bankroll to $465,336.
Corey Callahan scored a grand slam including wins in the
final three races of the night. Joe Bongiorno and Drew Monti each posted
driving triples. Ron Burke won with all three of his starters.
Live racing continues Saturday night with a 13-race
program beginning at 7:15 p.m. For more information, visit www.playmeadowlands.com.
