MARCUS MARVELOUS, WINS 5 AT MEADOWLANDS

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Marcus Miller was on fire at the Meadowlands Saturday night, driving five winners on the 14-race card.

Miller began his big night in the second race by guiding 4-5 favorite All It Takes to a 1:52 score in a non-winners of $3,500 for pacers.

He then reeled off three straight wins, beginning in race seven. First was Rocks Noble Artist as the 5-2 second choice in 1:52.1 in a TrackMaster rating Dash for the “G” Notes Final pace, followed by 7-2 third choice Sams A Champ A in a non-winners of $6,000 pace in 1:50, and then 6-5 favorite Music Is Art in a non-winners of $9,000 on the pace, also in 1:50.

Miller capped his big night in race 13 by scoring with Daylyn Horizon as the 5-2 second choice in a $7,500 up to $10,000 claiming handicap for pacers in 1:52.3.

The 30-year-old pilot came close to having a half-dozen winners, but lost race 10 by the smallest of margins, missing by a nose with the classy Sweet Rock in a non-winners of $17,500 pace to Ideal Feeling, who just held on in 1:49.

Miller now has 36 winners at the meeting, good for sixth in the Meadowlands’ driver standings.

A LITTLE MORE: Greg Merton had a driving double on the card while trainer Edgar Clarke also won twice. … Despite a sequence that saw one odds-on favorite and no horse longer than 5-1, the 50-Cent Pick-5 returned $650.00. … The fifth race 20-Cent Jackpot Super High-Five did not result in a single-ticket winner, upping the carryover to $118,780. … All-source handle totaled $2,599,180. … Racing resumes Friday at 7:15 p.m. … Next Saturday (July 6), post time will be 6:35 p.m.

PROVEN DESIRE, MELADY’S MONET WIN YONKERS’ SATURDAY 46G CO-FEATURES

BY FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway

YONKERS, NY, Saturday, June 29, 2019—Proven Desire (Jim Marohn Jr., $24.60) and Melady’s Monet (Eric Goodell, $16.40) prevailed Saturday night (June 29^th), winning Yonkers Raceway’s pair of $46,000 Open Handicaps.

Proven Desire, from post position No. 2 in the week’s adult-table pace went up and over a stopping Rock Diamonds N (Ron Cushing) down the backside. He then opened to 2¼ lengths off the final turn before finding the line just in time...and that time was a life-best 1:51.2.

Alluneedisfaith N (Joe Bongiorno) ran out of racetrack and missed a nose, with Epaulette A (Goodell), Ideal Jimmy (Brent Holland) and a trapped Great Vintage (Austin Siegelman) rounding out the payees. Micky Geen N (Jordan Stratton), as the 8-5 favorite, was a never-in-it sixth.

For sixth choice Proven Desire, a 7-year-old Proven Lover gelding co-owned by (trainer) Rene Allard and Simpson Racing, it was his third win in 15 seasonal starts. The exacta paid $321.50, the triple returned $2,525 and the superfecta paid $60,734 (base $2 payout, 10-cent ticket worth $3,036.70).

The week’s marquee trot saw Melady’s Monet—from post No. 3—close from third over to win a four-way scrum in 1:54.3

Eye ofa Tiger AS (Holland) photoed Smalltownthrowdown (Marohn Jr.) for second—both beaten a half-length—with Mostinterestingman (Siegelman) and In Secret (George Brennan) settling for the minors. Will Take  Charge (Stratton) was a non-factor sixth (last) as the 13-10 choice.

For fourth choice Melady’s Monet, a $1.4 million Revenue S gelding owned by Melady Enterprises and trained by Hermann Heitmann, it was his sixth win in 15 ’19 tries. The exacta paid $145, the triple returned $326.50 and the superfecta paid $1,269.

Glide In The Wind wins first of feature trots at Tioga.

Glide In The Wind (Wally Hennessey) captured the first of the co-featured trots ($7,000) on Saturday (June 29) at Tioga Downs.

Sky Crest (Sean McAleese) led the group into a first quarter in :28.1.  Glide In The Wind ($3.60) then took over heading to the half in :58.4 and to three-quarters in 1:28.0.

Glide In The Wind, who is owned and trained by Hennessey, would battle Commentary (Andy Santeramo) all the way down the stretch.  Glide in the Wind would dig in and would not be denied winning in 1:58.3.  Commentary had to settle for second.  Vicki All (Jim Taggart Jr.) fired late to finish third.

Glide In The Wind is a 4-year-old gelding by Yankee Glide.  It was win number six in 2019.  He now owns 10 career victories.

Oh No Three O (Jeffrey Long) takes the second co-feature ($7,000).

Lodi Bank Robber (Corey Braden) led to the first quarter in :30.1.  Choochoocharlie (Fern Paquet Jr.) then took over leading to the half in :59.4.  Cashahallic (Andy Santeramo) then took control leading to three-quarters in 1:29.0.

Oh No Three O ($10.00), who is owned by Charlene Long and trained by Paul Long, came flying down the stretch for an easy win in 1:58.2.  Cashahallic finished second and Choochoocharlie was third.

Oh No Three O is a 12 year-old gelding by Ken Warkentin.  It was his first win this season.  He now has 37 career victories.

Hennessey drove three other winners on the night.  His other wins came with Harry Terror ($2.10), CC Big Boy Sam ($6.40), and Geronimo Fame ($8.20).

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Sunday (June 30) as they host two divisions of the New York Sire Stakes for freshmen trotting colts and geldings.  The 15 race card starts at 1:00 p.m.

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.

Cindy's Party Boy takes Vernon Downs feature.

Cindy's Party Boy (Howard Parker) wins the featured pace ($7,000) at Vernon Downs on Saturday (June 29).

The big favorite Sgt Papa Daddy (John MacDonald) went to the front and went to the first quarter in :27.1.  Cindy's Party Boy ($9.10) went first over and took the lead before hitting the half in :55.2.  As they went around the final turn he would still control the pace hitting three-quarters in 1:22.3 with Sgt Papa Daddy still following in the pocket.

Cindy's Party Boy, who is owned by the Scarlett Stables and trained by Patti Harmon, led into the stretch and cruised to a win in a lifetime best of 1:49.4.  Sgt Papa Daddy held for second with Electrofire (Jennifer Lappe) getting third money.

Cindy's Party Boy is an 8-year-old gelding by Amercian Ideal.  It was his third win this season and his eighth career victory.

Howard Parker had two more driving wins on the evening.  He once again teamed up with Harmon and the Scarlett Stables for a win with Beach Bum ($9.70).  His third win came with Golden Brit ($7.10).

Dylan Huckabone-Miller wins first parimutuel race at Vernon Downs.

It was a heck of a last two days for Huckabone-Miller.  On Friday the 18-year-old graduated from high school and on Saturday he captured his first parimutuel race by charging late in the stretch to win with Im On Schedule ($4.90) in 1:57.0.  Huckabone Miller is the son of Harness driver Claude Huckabone III and Casey Miller.  It was great site and the first of many wins for the future star.

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com

Black Is Back Takes Buffalo Raceway Open

by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway

HAMBURG, N.Y. --- Black Is Back ($4.10) left the field feeling blue in Buffalo Raceway's $13,000 Class AA-Open Pace on Saturday night (June 29) with a neck win over Lucan Hanover in 1:54.3 over the fast track.

It was fourth straight victory for Black Is Back with the previous three decisions coming at Saratoga Raceway.

With his first start behind Black Is Back, David McNeight III got to the front early with him but saw Lucan Hanover (Billy Davis Jr.) storm by and take control as they hit the opening quarter in :28.1.

"I think he (Black Is Back) wanted to cut the mile but he can race from behind," McNeight III stated getting the pocket trip.

That closing kick came in handy as Black Is Back blasted a :28.1 final quarter to help in topping the pace-setting Lucan Hanover. Upfront Countryboy (Shawn McDonough) was third.

"At the top of the stretch I knew I had a lot left but I wasn't sure I was going to get by Lucan Hanover who is a tough horse to pass," McNeight III said of the finish.

Co-owned by Mihajlo Zdjelar Sr. and Curtis Edholm and trained by Mihajlo Zdjelar Jr., the 6-year-old gelded Black Is Back (Western Terror-Magic Moments) is now a winner of five races in 11 tries this season. The victory improved his 2019 earnings to $29,500 and $193,475 in his career.

Manceiver ($10.60) took the $11,000 Class AA pace with a wire-to-wire victory in 1:55.4 for Kevin Cummings. 

Starting from the five post, Manceiver took right off from the wings and was able to set the tempo of :28.2, :57 and 1:26.2. The closers made belated moves in the stretch but Manceiver's advantage was too much to overcome. Western Conquest (Ray Fisher Jr.) was second with China Dream (Davis Jr.) taking third.

Owned by Mike Torcello and trained by Gerry Sarama, it was the seventh victory in 22 appearances for the 5-year-old gelded Manceiver (Sportswriter-Swift N Shout). The win jacked his season winnings to $45,410 and $140,047 lifetime.

There were a pair of $10,000 Class A paces on the the program with In Runaway Bay ($6.00) taking the first division in 1:55.1 for Morrill Jr. while What's Goin On ($3.90) rallied three-wide around the final turn in posting a 1:55.2 triumph under the guidance of Cummings. 

Cummings remained red hot in the sulky with three victories while Morrill Jr. doubled. Sarama had a pair of training wins.

Racing will resume on Wednesday evening at 5 p.m. with a 12-race card slated. The New York Sire Stakes will be back as the 2-year-old filly pacers will collide in a pair of $54,000 events. There will also be competition in the Excelsior A series and a non-betting affair in the Excelsior B division with post time for that race at 4:30 p.m.

For more information including the latest news, race replays, results, entries, upcoming promotions and simulcast schedule, go to www.buffaloraceway.com

ANNIE STOEBE WINS $15,000 BILLINGS EAST REGION FINAL AT YONKERS

by john manzi for NAADA

Yonkers, NY--When Annie “Get You Gun” Stoebe sent Dark Poole to the lead in the $15,000 Billings East Region Final at Yonkers Raceway she encountered very little trouble and they went on to an oh-so-easy 1:56.2 victory. And the triumph was extra special for Stoebe since her family came all the way in from Montana to see her drive the biggest race of her fledgling career.

“I was blessed to get to drive Dark Poole again, he's such a nice horse,” Stoebe said via telephone. Two weeks ago Stoebe won a Billings trot at Harrah's Chester.”Now we're two-for-two and I couldn't be more thrilled.”

When the wings of the mobile gate folded Stoebe sent Dark Poole to the lead and they were never in any trouble trotting away to and easy five length victory over Fiji (Dave “the Rave” Offenberg) and Revrac Harbour, driven by Tony “Shifty” Ciuffetelli, Jr.

Billings president Tony “the Capo” Verruso , who finished fourth with Tropical Trice had lined-up sponsors who supplied various items to all the participants. Among those who supplied gifts were: Monte Gelrod;John Duer; Danny Taylor; Irv & Vic Sportswear; Buzzy Sholty; Chick's Saddlery; and Advantage Edge Equine 

CLOCK GETS ROCKED AT BIG M

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Caviart Ally, Always A Prince and The Downtown Bus all established lifetime bests while Always A Prince went one step further, going a Meadowlands’ season’s-fastest 1:47.3 Friday night at the Big M.

One week ago, Caviart Ally equaled her lifetime-best of 1:48.3 in the final leg of the Rainbow Blue Series for mare pacers and was even faster Friday, stopping the clock in 1:48 in the series' final. The 5-year-old daughter of Bettor’s Delight-Allamerican Cool stayed perfect in four Meadowlands starts this year by clearing to the lead before the half, hitting three-quarters in 1:22.2, then exploding home in :25.3 to seal the deal for driver Andy McCarthy. Apple Bottom Jeans completed the $4.20 Exacta, finishing 2 lengths behind the winner. Bettor’s Up was third.

The Brett Pelling-trained Caviart Ally returned $2.40 to win, and now has 20 victories in 61 starts, good for earnings of just a hair under $1.3 million.

“She was great tonight,” said McCarthy. “I think Brett has got her spot-on at the moment. She was very straight and focused on her job. I’m extremely happy and excited going forward.”

In the first of two divisions of the fourth and final leg of the Graduate Series for 4-year-olds on the pace, Always A Prince went first-over for most of the final half-mile, grabbed the lead at the head of the stretch and held off the late-rallying 4-5 favorite Jimmy Freight – who was raging along the inside – by a head. American History, who was towed into contention by the eventual winner, settled for third.

Always A Prince, who returned $9.40 as the second choice in the wagering, is a son of Always A Virgin-Glorious Princess who was driven by Dave Miller. The Tyler George trainee now has 21 wins from just 29 lifetime starts and has banked almost $550,000.

“Not at all,” said Miller if he was surprised at how good his horse was. “I knew what he was capable of. He raced great and went a big mile.”

The Downtown Bus sat a three-hole trip to score in the other Graduate division in 1:48. Shadow Cat cut out sizzling fractions of :25.4, :54.1 and 1:21.3 but stopped in the stretch, allowing the pocket-sitting 4-5 favorite Courtly Choice the opportunity to go on to what appeared to be an easy win, but Tim Tetrick put The Downtown Bus right behind Courtly Choice as that one vacated the pocket on the far turn, then ducked to the inside with an eighth of a mile to go before using some explosive pace on the way to an easy 2½-length score. Rock Lights was third.

A son of Mach Three-Slimsplace, The Downtown Bus is trained by Jeffrey Gillis and paid $8.00 as the second choice in the betting. He now has 15 lifetime wins from 46 starts and earnings of $414,505.

“On the middle of the last turn my horse felt great,” said Tetrick. “’The Bus’ is just a cool little horse.”

After The Downtown Bus hit the wire, the Meadowlands became the first track in the sport this year to have three miles of 1:48 or faster on a single race card.

A LITTLE MORE: The Graduate Finals for both trotters and pacers are on July 6. … Tetrick and Scott Zeron both recorded driving triples while Yannick Gingras and Miller had two apiece. … Chalk players had a big night, as eight favorites scored on the 14-race program. … The fifth race 20-Cent Jackpot Super High-Five failed to result in a single-ticket winner, upping the carryover to $117,559. … All-source handle totaled $2,319,581. … Racing resumes Saturday at 7:15 p.m.

First Call wins Vernon Downs feature.

First Call (Homer Hochstetler) captures the featured trot ($7,000) at Vernon Downs on Friday (June 28).

First Call ($34.40) led to the first quarter in :27.1 and was first at the halfway point in :57.4.  Spoiler Alert then took control just before hitting three-quarters in 1:25.3.

First Call, who is owned by Connie Hochstetler, Robert Buddig, and Allen Schwartz while trained by Homer Hochstetler, regained the lead at the top of the stretch.  She held off the late charge by Only Passing Thru (Jimmy Whittemore) to win in a lifetime best of 1:54.1.  Only Passing Thru settled for second money.  If Not Why Not (Howard Parker) was third.

First Call is a 4-year-old mare by Credit Winner.  It was her second win this season.  She now has 10 career victories.

Michelle Miller drives her first parimutuel winner with Flyhawk El Fiero ($11.60).

Girlslovepearls (Stanley Zombick Jr) controlled all the early fractions (:28.1, :57.4, 1:28.2).

Flyhawk El Fiero , who is owned by Lewis and Terry Miller and trained by Michael Miller, went first-over at the top of the stretch and charged to the front and held off Little Dave (Angus MacDonald) to win in a career best of 1:58.3.  Little Dave settled for second.  Girlslovepearls held on for third.

It might have been her first victory but Michelle Miller drove like she had won a hundred races.  Flyhawk El Fiero is a 3-year-old gelding by Conway Hall.  It was his second win this season.  He now has seven career victories.

Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Saturday (June 29) with a 13 race card that starts at 6:10 p.m.

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.

Warrawee Unique wins Tompkins-Geers race at Tioga Downs.

Warawee Unique (Mike Merton) captures the Tompkins-Geers Stakes ($73,000) for 3-year-old pacing colts & geldings at Tioga Downs on Friday (June 28).

Live Lucky (Wally Hennessey) went to the front and led to the first quarter in :26.4.  Cloudbreak (Mark MacDonald) took over the lead as they went by the stands for the first time and hit the half first in :56.1.  It was Seafarer (Marcus Miller) to take over on the back stretch and led to three-quarters in 1:21.3.

Warrawee Unique ($4.20), who is trained by Ron Burke for owners Burke Racing Stable, Crawford Farms, Weaver Bruscemi, J&T Silva-Purnell&Libby, went first over as they went around the final turn.  He battled Seafarer all the way down the stretch and lunged past to win in 1:50.3.  Seafarer settled for second with Captain Panko (Mike Simons) charged late to finish third.

Warrawee Unique is a 3-year-old gelding by Sweet Lou.  It was his second win this season and career victory number three.

JK Mardi Says (Josert Fonseca) charges late to win the first of two divisions of the Tompkins-Geers Stakes ($33,750).

Abigail Dawn (Mark MacDonald) put up all the early fractions (:27.2, :57.2, 1:23.4).

JK Mardi Says ($51.50), who is owned by 3 Brothers Stables and trained  by Nancy Johansson, was in fifth place seven lengths back after three quarters.  She came flying in the stretch to shock the field by winning in a lifetime best of 1:52.2.  Abigail Dawn was third but placed second.  Alii Nui (Marcus Miller) was second but place third.

JK Mardi Says is a 3-year-old filly by Somebeachsomewhere.  It was her second win in 2019.  She now has five career victories.

Rocknroll Annie (Marcus Miller) uses late speed to capture the second division ($33,750).

Adorabella (Wally Hennessey) went to the front and controlled all the early numbers (:27.0, :56.1, 1:24.1).

Rocknroll Annie ($10.20), who is trained by Erv Miller for owners Michael Anderson, Louis Willinger, and Glenn Bechtel, was fifth best at the top of the stretch.  Rose Run Uptowngal (Jim Meittinis) took over in mid-stretch but Rocknroll Annie blew right by to win in a career best of 1:53.1.  Rose Run Uptowngal held for second.  Alkippe (Mike Simons) was third best.

Rocknroll Annie is a 3-year-old filly by Rocknroll Dance.  She did not race as a freshman.  She owns three lifetime wins.

Returns to live racing on Saturday (June 29) with a 13 race card starting at 6:15 p.m.

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com

SOPH FILLIES IN YONKERS’ $167,500 NYSS MIKE COHEN PACE

BY FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway

YONKERS, NY, Friday, June 28, 2019—Yonkers Raceway Friday evening (June 28^th) hosted the $167,500 New York Sire Stakes Mike Cohen Pace for 3-year-old fillies.

As was the case the previous night, a pair of $83,750 races comprised the event, this one honoring the memory of the former publicity director at the Raceway as well as NBC Sports.

The opening division saw Prescient Beauty (George Brennan) lay down the gauntlet, then just lay down. The 8-5 polester favorite retook in the second turn from Hurrikane Norakane (Dan Dube) in between a :26.4 opening quarter-mile and a :54.4 intermission.

Prescient Beauty was done in and out of a 1:23.1 three-quarters as the cavalry rolled over her. From post position No. 5, Brooklyn Lilacs (Joe Bongiorno, $50) stacked widest and closed fastest, tagging So Awesome (Tyler Buter) nearing the wire in a life-best 1:52.2.

Third went to JK American Beauty (Jordan Stratton), with Crazy Cute (Jim Morrill Jr.) fourth. Meanwhile, Prescient Beauty wound up last among the seven lasses, beaten more than 16 lengths.

For sixth choice Brooklyn Lilacs, a homebred daughter of Rock N Roll Heaven owned by Crawford Farms Racing and trained by Jennifer Bongiorno, it was her second win in seven seasonal starts. The exacta paid $329.50, the triple returned $1,670 and the superfecta paid $8,185.

”I was going to race her from behind, coming off the break in her last start (Buffalo),” driver Bongiorno said. “I was glad to see Danny (Dube) leave and mix it up. They were going very fast, especially for 3-year-old fillies, and when I moved mine wide, she just exploded.” 

The evening’s second statebred event saw odds-on Excelsior refugee Chase You (Brennan, $3.20) step up to the adult table, win the draw and hold off Meghan Lynn (Bongiorno) in a glorified match race. The margin was a neck in 1:53.2, by far a life-best effort.

Money Shot Hanover (Buter) and Heaven’s Challenge (Morrill Jr.) wound up  third and fourth, respectively.

For Chase You, a homebred American Ideal miss owned by Ted Cupp and trained by Michelle Crawford, it was her seventh win in 11 ’19 tries. The exacta paid $11.40, the triple returned $55.50 and the superfecta (four wagering choices in order) paid $142.50.

“She’s just a pro, she really is,” Brennan said. “I was able to rate the fractions (:28.4, :57.2, 1:25) and she dug in.”

New York Sire Stakes returns downstate Monday night (July 8^th), with the Mike Sorentino Trot for 2-year-old colts/geldings (purse TBA).  

Total purses for the 2019 New York-bred program are estimated at $14 million. For more information, please visit www.nysirestakes.com. 

TEQUILA MONDAY’S 1:50 EQUALS ALL-AGE YONKERS TRACK RECORD

BY FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway

YONKERS, NY, Friday, June 28, 2019—Favored Tequila Monday (Matt Kakaley, $4.30) sat well off insane (:26.1, 53.4, 1:21.2) fractions by Write Me a Song (Jordan Stratton) Friday evening (June 28^th), then blew by everyone to match Yonkers Raceway’s all-age track record of 1:50 flat.

She also became the Raceway’s fastest-ever femme fatale.  

The lass, from post position No. 7, won the $46,000 Filly and Mare Open Handicap Pace, her eighth victory in 10 seasonal starts and a place alongside The Real One (Pat Lachance), who first hit that number in November of 2016.

Feelin’ Red Hot (George Brennan) was second, beaten a length-and-a-quarter, with Bettor Joy N (Dan Dube), Alexa’s Power (Jim Marohn Jr.) and Delightfulmemphisn (Tyler Buter) rounding out the payees.  

For Tequila Monday, a 5-year-old statebred daughter of American Ideal co-owned by Northfork Racing & Chuck Pompey and trained by Chis Oakes, the season’s-best effort was her 25^th win in 54 career starts.  She’s won her last five local tries. The exacta paid $15.80, the triple returned $84 and the superfecta paid $297.50

“If I pulled the plugs, she would’ve broken 1:50,” Kakaley said. “She had another second in her.”

Noble Legend Retuns to Buffalo a Winner

by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway

HAMBURG, N.Y. --- Noble Legend ($3.90) returned back to Buffalo Raceway after an extended stay at Northfield Park and wasted no time to start enjoying the spoils of home by capturing the $12,000 Class A-Open Trot on Friday night (June 28).

Going the mile in 1:57.1 over the fast track, Noble Legend (Billy Davis Jr.) held off the late charge of Lougazi (Ray Fisher Jr.) and scored the half length victory. Southern Palms (David McNeight III) collected the third place check.

Scoring from the inside, Noble Legend didn't need to expend much energy to reach the top as he posted fractions of :29.1, :59 and 1:28. With a panel to trot, Lougazi put in a strong effort but Noble Legend had enough left to notch the win.

"We got the rail and weren't going to waste it," Davis Jr. said of the front end trip with Noble Legend. "We got some easy fractions. I was a little concerned the last quarter mile with Lougazi coming on the outside but Noble Legend showed his class and dug in late."

A 7-year-old gelding, Noble Legend (Kadabra-Lovin It) is trained by Maria Rice and co-owned by the Vogel & Wags Nags Stable and Jack Rice. The victory was his sixth in 22 starts in 2019 and moved his seasonal winnings to $44,523 and $244,609 lifetime.

Kevin Cummings finished the night with four driving victories while Davis Jr. added a triple. Trainer Angelo Nappo picked up a double.

Racing will continue on Saturday evening at 6 p.m. with a 13-race program scheduled.

For more information including the latest news, race replays, results, entries, upcoming promotions and simulcast schedule, go to www.buffaloraceway.com

Illinois Horse Racing Poised to Boom After Gaming Bill Becomes Law

Casino games at tracks, end of purse recapture, live racing guarantees
HINSDALE, Ill. – The Illinois Harness Horsemen’s Association (IHHA) applauds the signing of gaming legislation by Governor Pritzker today. The legislation will revolutionize and reinvigorate horse racing in Illinois leading to the creation of thousands of new agriculture jobs.

 
“We’ve been working on this legislation for what seems like forever,” said IHHA Executive Director Tony Somone. “Our team has never lost sight of the working men and women who earn their living in Illinois horse racing.  We continued to work until literally the last minutes to make sure that horsemen would have the ability to prosper into the future because of this gaming package. A new day is dawning for our industry.” 

Illinois horsemen have fought for years for casino-style gaming at racetracks which has been used by other horse racing states to boost purses and revive the breeding industry. Over the years, Illinois harness racing – once a premier harness destination in the United States – has been decimated as horsemen moved their farms and employees to other states that offered more opportunity because of slot machines at racetracks. 

“Because of this bill, I can stay in Illinois to raise my family,” said IHHA Board Member and harness racing driver and trainer Juan Franco.  

Not only will horsemen see their purse winnings grow with the introduction of casino games at racetracks, the widely despised and unfair practice of purse recapture will end with the passage of this legislation. Furthermore, horsemen will have guaranteed live racing opportunities that will enable them to call Illinois home all year long.

 “The passing of this Legislation in Illinois is game changing for horseman,” said IHHA Board Member Angie Coleman. “It's going to put us back on the map as a major player in harness racing in North America.  It will attract the top horses, drivers, trainers, grooms and breeders which in turn equates to jobs in Illinois.” 

Securing added money specifically for Illinois-bred horses will also rejuvenate horse breeding which is one of the linchpins of horse racing’s economic impact in agriculture. 

“We’re going to see a resurgence in Standardbred breeding,” said IHHA Board Member Ed Teefy. “It will take a few years to get the numbers up because there’s a lot that goes into a breeding farm and the industry will be hungry for employees to work at those farms.”

In 2018 there were 124 Standardbred horses foaled. That’s down from a peak of more than 2,000 foals in the 1980’s. From foaling to the racetrack, a racehorse directly impacts numerous different jobs such as breeders and their farm help, grooms, trainers, and drivers. They indirectly employ many more like blacksmiths, veterinarians, hay and grain farmers and dealers, and truck and trailer dealers. Jobs at the racetrack like tellers, bartenders, servers, marketing and accounting people, and the track crews will all exist and prosper because of this legislation. 

“The ripple effect of our industry on Illinois economy is wide and difficult to grasp sometimes,” said IHHA President Marty Engel. “It was one of our missions to make sure that our economic impact was understood as valuable.”
Another achievement of the legislation is language that will allow for a new Standardbred only racino to be opened somewhere in the Chicago region. Currently, Standardbred racing only happens at Hawthorne Racetrack which splits it’s time between Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing. 

The Illinois State fairs at Springfield and DuQuoin and the County fairs up and down the state, long a staple of the industry, will see a significant increase in purses as this legislation has earmarked purse dollars specifically for Illinois Conceived and Foaled races. County Fairs are the training ground for many horses and aspiring horsemen and the boost to purses means that more young people will see the opportunities to make a living. This will lead to more horses being bred and eventually racing and creating more demand for agricultural services like veterinarians and blacksmiths, as well as agriculture products like grain and hay. 

“This gaming bill is going to have a tremendous impact on horseracing which has an immense impact on agriculture across the state,” said Somone. 

The IHHA also extends their sincerest gratitude to former Governor Jim Edgar for his longtime dedication to horse racing in Illinois. His knowledge of the industry and his experience in Illinois government were vital to the passage of fair legislation that included horse racing.
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Freshman Pacing Colts visit Monticello Raceway

52 freshman Pacing Colts will go behind the gate Monday July 1, up for grabs is over $155,000 in purses.  The 8 race card features 4 splits of Sire Stakes, each division racing for a purse of $26,500, 3 Excelsior A’s ($15,000) and 1 Excelsior B ($6,700). 

In the first heat, Sandy’s Bolt (Jason Bartlett) will score from post 6 in his division, the son of Bolt the Duer – White Sand won a NYSS event last start out at Yonkers in 1:56.4 (LQ 27.4) the field also includes Ray Schnittkers, The Mystic (PP3) the son of So Surreal has a Q record of 1:54.2 at the Meadowlands, he made a break in his first Sire Stake event, Mark Macdonald will handle the driving chores. 

The next event race 5, features another Schnittker trainee, Always On The Hunt, the son of (American Ideal –Beachesofcheyenne) will start from the rail with Mark Macdonald in the sulky, he finished second in his Sire Stakes debt at Yonkers.  Level Up, will start from post position 4 for trainer Monique Cohen, Jordan Statton will handle the driving assignment. 

The 3^rd division race 6 on the card, features 2 colts moving up from Excelsior A company, Major Asset who is trained and driven by Mike Simmons, the Art Major colt won last start in 1:56.3. and will start from post 4. Sunsetboozecruise (PP6) also won at Yonkers in 1:57.2, Gareth Dowse trains the son of Roll With Joe and has Jim Morrill down to drive.  Splash Brother,(PP2) a $30,000 Goshen yearling purchase finished second his pari mutuel debt also at Yonkers, with Mark Macdonald in the bike. 

In the final Sire Stake of the afternoon is slated as race 7, Groovey Joe (Roll With Joe – Chotat Milk) looks for his second consecutive Sire Stakes win, the Blake Macintosh trainee took a lifetime record of 1:56 in his division of Sire Stakes at Yonkers and will score from post 4, with Matt Kakaley at the helm.  Also in the field are I Rolled The Dice (PP3) with Jim Morrill Jr. and Teton Sunset (Mark MacDonald) who finished second from the 7 hole last start out at Yonkers. 

Levine will start from the rail in a heat of Excelsior A class, the son of American Ideal – Sangaal is trained by Megan Scran with Rick Zeron in the bike.  Levine is owned by Wrestling great Ric Flair Stable of Wesley Chapel, FL.   

Post time is 12:50 

Tioga Downs to host NYSS freshman trotters on Sunday.

Tioga Downs welcomes two divisions of the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS)  for freshmen trotting colts and geldings on Sunday (June 30).  Both divisions will race for a purse of $55,000.

In the first division the top morning line choice at 3-1 is Saylor (Jim Marohn Jr).  Owned and trained by D.R. Ackerman, he is a colt by Chapter Seven–Creme De Cocoa.  The second choice at 7-2 is Hobbs (Tyler Buter), who is a gelding by Credit Winner-Cruella De Ville.

He is owned by Runthetable Stables and trained by Jim Campbell.  the third choice at 4-1 is Barn Holden (Jim Meittinis).  He is a colt by Conway Hall-Barn Babe, who is owned by Purple Haze Stables, Out In The Country Stable with Nancy and trainer Steven Pratt

In the second division the 9-5 morning line favorite is Chaptiama (Trond Smedshammer).  He is a colt by Chapter Seven–Crediama.  Owned by Purple Haze Stables and trained by Smedshammer.

The second morning line choice at 4-1 is Third Shift (Ake Svanstedt).  The colt by Chapter Seven-Overnight is owned by Melby Gard Inc. and trained by Svanstedt.  The third choice at 6-1 is Take The Credit (Andy Miller).

Owned by Brixton Medical Inc. and trained by Svanstedt, he is a colt by Credit Winner–Love Tactics.

The 15 race card on Sunday (June 30) starts at 1:00 p.m.

For more information go to www,tiogadowns.com.

GLAMOUR DIVISION IN YONKERS’ $167,500 NYSS ARMAND PALATUCCI PACE

BY FRANK DRUCKER, Publicity Director, Empire City @ Yonkers Raceway

YONKERS, NY, Thursday, June 27, 2019—The Empire’s glamour gentlemen sauntered into Yonkers Raceway Thursday evening (June 27^th), doing so for the $167,500 New York Sire Stakes Armand Palatucci Pace for 3-year-old colts and geldings.

A pair of equally-parsed $83,750 portions went postward, starting with a track record.

Polester American Mercury (Tyler Buter, $5) stuffed 4-5 favorite Hickfromfrenchlick (Mark MacDonald) back from whence he came…the three-hole.

From there, he drilled ‘em (:26.4; 55.3; 1:23.2; 1:50.3), disposing of pocket-sitting Major March (Jason Bartlett) by a couple of lengths. Hickfromfrenchlick wound up a first-up, non-threatening third. Buddy Hill (Brian Sears) was fourth.

For second choice American Mercury, a American Ideal gelding co-owned by Crawford Farms & Northfork Racing, Chuck Pompey & Scott Bice and trained by Chris Oakes, it was his fourth win in six seasonal starts. The exacta paid $25, the triple returned $36.20 and the superfecta paid $76.

The life-best effort was also a new track record for his weight class and matched the fastest local mile of the season.   

“At the head of the lane, he was loaded,” Buter said. “I can’t say much I appreciate getting to drive him.”

The evening’s second and final statebred event saw favored Rollwithpapajoe (Joe Bongiorno, $4.60) yield to Stone Hanover (Jim Morrill Jr.) before the pole-sitting retook. He did the rest (:28.3, :57.4, 1:25.2, 1:52.3), the :54.4 back half more than sufficient to whip ‘Stone’ by a length-and-three-quarters.

Major Joe Lindy (Scott Zeron) was third, with Artie’s Ideal (Marcus Miller) fourth.       

For ‘Papajoe,’ a Roll with Joe gelding co-owned by Barbara Bongiorno Stable, Bill Lambos & Dionisios Liberatos and trained by Jennifer Bongiorno, it was his third win in 10 ‘ 19 starts. The exacta paid $22, the triple  returned $304.50 and the superfecta paid $911.

“My horse can make speed, and when no one left early against him, I knew he’d be tough,” driver Bongiorno said.

New York Sire Stakes returns downstate Friday night (June 28^th), with the $167,500 Mike Cohen Pace for 3-year-old fillies.  

Total purses for the 2019 New York-bred program are estimated at $14 million. For more information, please visit www.nysirestakes.com.

As an unrelated aside, Thursday’\s Pick 5 wager, which began with a $7,500 carryover and a $20,000 guaranteed pool, saw $33,602 of new coin. Into an after-takeout pool of approximately $32,701, the winning combination of 2/5/4/1/4 paid $1,107.75 for each correct half-a-buck ticket.

The Greatest Night in Harness Racing is Saturday, July 13

BBQ Battle & the Crawford Farms Meadowlands Pace

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – On Saturday, July 13^th the 4^th Annual BBQ Battle returns to the track on Crawford Farms Meadowlands Pace Night.  $2,000 is up for grabs in the Battle with $500 top prizes for the best brisket, chicken, pulled pork and ribs. Plus on the track, the top 3 year old pacers compete for the $700,000 Crawford Farms Meadowlands Pace title. 

From 6-11 p.m. in the Backyard, fans can grab some delicious barbecue and food truck eats from some of the best local food trucks and restaurants in the area.

So far, seven contestants have signed up to compete in this year’s Battle including: Magic Mike’s Smoked Meats, Dr Dors BBQ, Delicious BBQ, Gentle Giant Brew Co, Smoke & Steer BBQ Grill, Carlitos BBQ and Big Barlow’s BBQ.

Additional food and dessert options ranging from empanadas to seafood tacos to burgers to Italian ice and cupcakes will be provided by Empanada Guy, All Surf No Turf, Jersey Roll, 2 Guys Catering, The Mozzarella God, Clydes Italian Ice and House of Cupcakes.

BBQ Battle registration is limited to the first ten entrants. There is a $100 registration fee that must be paid prior to the start of cooking.  Those interested in participating should contact Rachel Ryan at RaRyan@playmeadowlands.com

“Crawford Farms Meadowlands Pace night is a highlight of our Championship Meet,” said Meadowlands General Manager and CEO Jason M. Settlemoir. “This is truly a spectacular night of racing, food and family fun.”

In addition to the BBQ Battle, The “Greatest Night in Harness Racing” also takes place on Saturday (July 13) with the featured $700,000 Crawford Farms Meadowlands Pace in the spotlight. Also being contested on the card will be the Mistletoe Shalee, Stanley Dancer, Del Miller, William Haughton, Golden Girls and Hambletonian Maturity.  Fans can grab a free Crawford Farms Meadowlands Pace commemorative T-shirt (while supply lasts), ride the mechanical shark and enter to win a $500 win wager.  There is also live music by the Mighty Spectrum Band and bounce houses for the kids.

For more details on the BBQ Battle and the Crawford Farm Meadowlands Pace, visit http://meadowlandspace.com/default.html

Proof and Captain Victorious are two new names in the Week 9 edition of Dave Little's "Road to the Crawford Farms Meadowlands Pace"

Off victories in Hempt eliminations, Proof and Captain Victorious are two new names in the Week 9 edition of Dave Little's "Road to the Crawford Farms Meadowlands Pace", but the top three of Captain Crunch, Bettor's Wish and Workin Ona Mystery remain intact, as all three take the week off as they continue to prep for the $700,000 event.  #Paceyourself19

Rank	Horse (Earnings – Mark)	Driver, Trainer Owner(s)	Dave Little’s Comments
1	Captain Crunch ($1,050,806 – 1:47.2)	S. Zeron, N. Johansson 3 Brothers Stables, Christina Takter, Rojan Stables, Caviart Farms	Clearly the leader of the 3-year-old colt pacing pack with the North America Cup trophy sitting on his mantle. Will go after the Cup-Pace double when elims are contested at the Big M a week from Saturday. Johansson: “He trained (Wednesday) morning along with Caviart (Rockland) and both were very good. They will train fast Saturday morning and then they should be ready to go.” Last Race: 6/15 – WMP – North America Cup Final – 1st (1:47.2)
2	Bettor’s Wish ($639,556 – 1:49.3)	D. Dunn, C. Ryder Chris Ryder, Bella Racing, Fair Island Farm, Kenneth Solomon	Came up just short in The Cup. Can he score some revenge on his arch-rival Captain Crunch in the Pace? Ryder: “He’s good. We are going to qualify Saturday morning at the Meadowlands.” Last Race: 6/15 – WMP – North America Cup Final – 2nd (1:47.3)
3	Workin Ona Mystery ($258,567 – 1:49)	T. Tetrick, B. Brown Diamond Creek Racing, Stambaugh Leeman Stable, Alan Keith, Wingfield Brothers	The 7-5 NA Cup favorite reached three-quarters on the point in 1:20 before settling for third. The Pace will feature a rematch of the division’s Big Three. Brown: “He went a big mile in the North America Cup but I don’t think there will be any repercussions for The Pace. He’ll train on Friday or Saturday.” Last Race: 6/15 – WMP – North America Cup Final – 3rd (1:47.3)
4	Best In Show ($96,163 – 1:50.3)	B. McClure, L. Toscano Richard P Young, Joanne Young, Craig W Henderson	Still inexperienced sort is headed for some Ontario Sire Stakes Gold action Saturday before returning to New Jersey to give The Pace a go. Toscano: “He’s good. I don’t love my draw (post 8) for Saturday (in the Ontario Sire Stakes Gold) but we decided to race instead of stay at the Meadowlands and qualify. If he can’t go with the sire stake horses, then he doesn’t belong with the others (in The Pace).” Last Race: 6/15 – WMP – North America Cup Final – 6th (1:48.2)
5	Air Force Hanover ($215,888 – 1:50.1)	D. Dunn, B. Brown Country Club Acres Inc., Joe Sbrocco, Richard M Lombardo, W J Donovan	Showed early speed before yielding and staying at the rail the rest of the way to get second in his Hempt Elim. Brown: “I’m very happy with him but he’s not quite as good as some of the other horses. I don’t think he’s coming to The Pace. We are looking more towards the Adios.” Last Race: 6/22 – PcD – Hempt Elimination – 2nd (1:49.1)
6	Proof ($476,299 – 1:48.1)	D. Miller, B. Brown Diamond Creek Racing	Reappears in the Top 10 after several weeks away off an impressive 1:48.1 score in his Hempt Elimination as the 4-5 favorite. Brown: “The week of training he had before that race was the best of his life. He was unbelievable last week. We’ll decide after the Hempt what we will do next, but I’m leaning towards the Meadowlands Pace.” Last Race: 6/22 – PcD – Hempt Elimination – 1st (1:48.1)
7	Hurrikane Emperor ($331,650 – 1:49.3)	D. Dube, J. McDermott Jonathan Klee Racing, Kuhen Racing, Pegasis Investment Group, William Garofalo	Sat the pocket throughout behind Captain Victorious’ improbably incredible mile in a Hempt Elim as the 3-2 public choice. McDermott: “His earplugs never got pulled. We accomplished what we needed to (by making it to the final). He scoped a little sick, so he’s been on anti-biotics and I expect him to be better on Saturday.” Last Race: 6/22 – PcD – Hempt Elimination – 2nd (1:49)
8	Captain Victorious ($180,271 – 1:48.3)	Y. Gingras, R. Burke The Captain V Stable	If you did not see his mile in the Hempt, do yourself a favor and check it out. He was hounded every step of the way on the lead and won in decisive fashion to earn a spot in the Top 10 for the first time. Unbelievable!  Burke: “I wasn’t that surprised at how good he was. I was more surprised at how bad he was the start before (in the NA Cup). As for last week, when the track at Pocono is like it was, you can go far on the lead.” Last Race: 6/22 – PcD – Hempt Elimination – 1st (1:48.3)
9	De Los Cielos Deo ($217,758 – 1:48.4Q)	D. Miller, R. Burke Burke Racing Stable LLC, Lawrence R Karr, J&T Silva- Purnel & Libby, Weaver Bruscemi LLC	Was sent to the gate as the 3-1 second choice in the wagering, but did not live up to that billing, finishing seventh in The Cup. Burke: “I still think he’s the best colt I have. I think being off for two weeks is good for him. After the (1:48.4) qualifier followed by the big mile in his NA Cup Elim followed by the disaster in the final, he needs some time to recoup.” Last Race: 6/15 – WMP – North America Cup Final – 7th (1:49.3)
10	Caviart Rockland ($93,265 – 1:50.3)	Y. Gingras, N. Johansson Caviart Farms	Finished second in a nice try in the NA Cup Consolation after pacing home in :27. Johansson: “If it sets up well and he gets a trip, he always closes very well, I think he has a legitimate shot to get a check in The Pace. It’s better for me to have them (Caviart Rockland and Captain Crunch) on two separate avenues as we get further into the season. Hopeflly, Caviart can get into the Millstein and races like that.” Last Race: 6/15 – WMP – North America Cup Consolation – 2nd (1:49.1)

KEY PREP RACES

MEADOWLANDS PACE ELIGIBLES IN CAPS – Supplements are permitted per the conditions of the race

Date	Stakes	Site	Winner	Trainer	Driver	2nd Horse	3rd Horse	Time
5/4	Pa. Sire Stakes Pa. Sire Stakes Pa. Sire Stakes	Mea Mea Mea	Southwind Ozzi WORKIN ONA MYSTERY LOVE ME SOME LOU	B. Mac Kenzie B. Brown T. Cancelliere	T. Tetrick T. Tetrick D. Miller	PROOF Wild Wild Western Brassy Hanover	Prince Of Tides Captain Malicious CAPTAIN VICTORIOUS	1:50.4 1:50.1 1:50.4
5/11	Pa. All-Stars Pa. All-Stars Pa. All-Stars	PcD PcD PcD	BLOOD MONEY Branquinho AIR FORCE HANOVER	N. Johansson R. Schnittker B. Brown	S. Zeron T. Buter G. Napolitano, Jr.	ESCAPETOTHEBEACH LYONS NIGHT HAWK Highlandbeachlover	Brassy Hanover Warrawee Unique SUGAR FACTORY	1:50 1:50.1 1:50.1
5/13	NY Sire Stakes NY Sire Stakes NY Sire Stakes	MR MR MR	Hickfromfrenchlick Major March Rollwithpapajoe	R. Schnittker L. Toscano J. Bongiorno	M. MacDonald J. Bartlett T. Buter	American Mercury Major Blake REIGNING DEO	Stone Hanover Astaire Covered Bridge	1:55 1:55 1:56
5/17	NJ Sire Stakes	M1	HURRIKANE EMPEROR	J. McDermott	D. Dube	Clintock	Black Dan	1:53.2
5/18	Art Rooney Elim. Art Rooney Elim.	YR YR	AIR FORCE HANOVER BETTOR’S WISH	B. Brown C. Ryder	D. Miller D. Dunn	BUDDY HILL BLOOD MONEY	PRICE HANOVER Rollwithpapajoe	1:52.4 1:53.2
5/19	Pa. Sire Stakes Pa. Sire Stakes Pa. Sire Stakes	PcD PcD PcD	Wild Wild Western CAPTAIN CRUNCH WORKIN ONA MYSTERY	N. Parker N. Johansson B. Brown	M. Wilder S. Zeron T. Tetrick	CAVIART STETSON Southwind Ozzi LOVE ME SOME LOU	SEMI TOUGH PROOF Highlandbeachlover	1:52 1:49.1 1:49.3
5/24	NJ Sire Stakes	M1	HURRIKANE EMPEROR	J. McDermott	D. Dube	Black Dan	Clintock	1:52
5/25	Art Rooney Final	YR	BETTOR’S WISH	C. Ryder	D. Dunn	Branquinho	AIR FORCE HANOVER	1:51.4
5/26 5/26 5/26	NY Sire Stakes NY Sire Stakes NY Sire Stakes	Stga Stga Stga	Fromthestartagain American Mercury Shake That House	J. Grasso C. Oakes C. Oakes	J. Bartlett T. Buter T. Buter	REIGNING DEO Hickfromfrenchlick Stone Hanover	MELODIES MAJOR Major March Major Blake	1:53 1:52 1:51.3
5/26 5/26 5/26	Pa. Sire Stakes Pa. Sire Stakes Pa. Sire Stakes	Phl Phl Phl	Southwind Ozzi LYONS NIGHT HAWK CAPTAIN CRUNCH	B. Mac Kenzie G. Dowse N. Johansson	B. Sears T. Tetrick S. Zeron	Wild Wild Western Chaser Hanover Aflame Hanover	SEMI TOUGH ESCAPETOTHEBEACH Warrawee Unique	1:48.4 1:50 1:49.2
6/1 6/1	Somebeachsomewhr Somebeachsomewhr	WMP WMP	Century Farroh Tyga Hanover	I. Moore B. Baillergeon	S. Filion S. Filion	CAVIART ROCKLAND BEST IN SHOW	Better Up Stag Party	1:52.4 1:52.1
6/5	NY Sire Stakes	BR	American Mercury	C. Oakes	T. Buter	Major March	REIGNING DEO	1:52.4
6/8 6/8	NA Cup Elimination NA Cup Elimination	WMP WMP	BETTOR’S WISH WORKIN ONA MYSTERY	C. Ryder B. Brown	D. Dunn T. Tetrick	DE LOS CIELOS DEO CAPTAIN VICTORIOUS	BEST IN SHOW Stag Party	1:49.3 1:49
6/15	NA Cup Final	WMP	CAPTAIN CRUNCH	N. Johansson	S. Zeron	BETTOR’S WISH	WORKIN ONA MYSTERY	1:47.2
6/16 6/16 6/16	NY Sire Stakes NY Sire Stakes NY Sire Stakes	TgD TgD TgD	Hickfromfrenchlick BUDDY HILL Major March	R. Schnittker M. Melander L. Toscano	M. MacDonald J. Bartlett J. Bartlett	Respect Our Flag Artie’s Ideal Rollwithpapajoe	Major Blake LIVE LUCKY American Mercury	1:51.3 1:52 1:52.3
6/22 6/22 6/22	Max Hempt Elim. Max Hempt Elim. Max Hempt Elim.	PcD PcD PcD	Shake That House PROOF CAPTAIN VICTORIOUS	C. Oakes B. Brown R. Burke	B. Sears D. Miller Y. Gingras	AIR FORCE HANOVER Brassy Hanover HURRIKANE EMPEROR	Aflame Hanover LYONS NIGHT HAWK Highlandbeachlover	1:49 1:48.1 1:48.3
6/27	NY Sire Stakes	YR
6/29	ON Sire Stakes Gold	WMP
6/29	Max Hempt Final	PcD
7/6	Mead. Pace Elim.	M1
7/13	Mead. Pace Final	M1