Dee’s Red Delicious gets NYSS win at Tioga Downs.

Dee’s Red Delicious (Corey Callahan) takes the $104,400 New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for 2-year-old trotting colts & geldings at Tioga Downs on Sunday (August 30). 

The morning line favorite Ahundreddollarbill (Jason Bartlett) went on a break right at the start.  Credit Con (Tyler Buter) went to the front with Sevenshadesofgrey (Mike Merton) challenging early.  As the headed for the quarter, Sevenshadesofgrey went off-stride.  Credit Con led to the first quarter in :28.2.  Credit Con used a :30.3 second quarter to hit the half in :59.0.  Dee’s Red Delicious ($3.20) made his move first-over down the backstretch as Unwritten Chapter (Wally Hennessey) followed second-over.  Dee’s Red Delicious took over the lead as they headed for the final turn hitting three-quarters first in 1:27.2. 

As they made the turn for home Unwritten Chapter went all out on the chase and started to inch closer.  Dee’s Red Delicious found another gear and won going away in 1:56.2.  Unwritten Chapter had to settle for second.  Steel (Andy Miller) came up to finish third. 

Dee’s Red Delicious is a 2-year-old gelding by Credit Winner-Apple Plush.  He is owned by Joseph Martinelli and trained by Bruce Saunders.  It was his third win in six lifetime starts. 

Jason Bartlett drove three winners on the card.  He combined with trainer Claude Huckabone III to get wins with Sunny Days ($19.20) and I love My Country ($7.00).  His other victory came with Barn Hall ($2.50). 

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (September 5).  Post time is 3 p.m. 

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com 

Hennessey and Merton each win five at Tioga.

 Wally Hennessey and Mike Merton continued their dominance at Tioga Downs with five driving wins a piece on Saturday (August 29).  

 Among his five wins, Hennessy captured the $6,500 featured fillies & mares’ pace with Tay Tay M ($5.00). 

 In the feature, Tay Tay M charged right out to the front from her outside post and led to the first quarter in :27.2.  She probably won the race by slowing things down using a :30.2 second quarter as she hit the half first in :57.4.  Gold Star Mysti (Corey Braden) came first-up to challenge as they reached the backstretch and harassed Tay Tay M all the way to three-quarters.  Tay Tay M was the first to get there in 1:25.4.   

 As they made the turn for home Tay Tay M was too strong down the stretch and she won it easily in 1:54.1.  Gold Star Mysti had to settle for second with Coveredndiamonds N (Mike Merton) coming up to finish third.   

 Tay Tay M is a 6-year-old mare by Six Of Diamonds.  She is owned by Richard Dunmire and trainer Kim Sears.  It was her fourth win this season.  She now has 17 career victories, 

 Hennessey got his other wins with Prairie Midnight ($16.20), Weekend Atnannies ($3.40), Odds On Cheddar ($2.10), and Verdi D Em ($4.30). 

 Merton got his five wins with Redemptionbluechip ($3.80), Real Lucky N ($2.70), Quick Deal ($10.00), Clarion Hall ($3.40), and A wish For Wings ($13.80). 

 Rob Harmon trained three winners on the day and leads all trainers with 38 wins.  Gaston Lareau is second with 32 victories.  Joe Skowyra is third with 27 tallies.  Mike Deters (25) and Jim McDonald (24) round out the top five. 

 Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Sunday (August 30).  The 13-race card features the $104,400 New York Sire Stakes 2-year-old trotting colts & geldings.  Post time is 1 p.m. 

 For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com 

 

J-Mac gets slam including feature at Vernon.

Leading driver John MacDonald continued to be red hot as he drove four winners including Brookdale Bruiser in the $4,400 featured pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday (August 29). 

 In the feature, Wind Blast (Josh Kinney) charged to the front and led to the first quarter in :26.4.  He continued to push the pace using a :28.1 second quarter to hit the half in :55.0.  Brookdale Bruiser sat patiently in the pocket the whole trip as Wind Blast led to three-quarters in 1:22.4. 

 As they made the turn for home Brookdale Bruiser popped out of the pocket and took control in the stretch.  Sofer (Leon Bailey) came charging three-wide but Brookdale Bruiser dug in and won in 1:53.0.  Sofer settled for second.  Yamaka came charging late to finish third. 

Brookdale Bruiser is a 6-year-old gelding by Roll With Joe.  He is owned by the JP Stables and trained by Brandy Wine.  It was his fifth win of 2020.  He now has 25 career victories. 

John MacDonald leads all drivers with 37 wins.  Howard Parker and Leon Bailey are tied for second with 30 trips to the winner’s circle.  Jimmy Whittemore (24) and Roman Lopez (12) round out the top five. 

The training title remains very tight.  George Ducharme and Kerin Warner are tied for the top spot with 13 wins a piece.  David Dewhurst, Claude Huckabone III, and Brandy Wine are all just one back with 12 victories each. 

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday (September 4) starting at 3:00 p.m. 

 For more information go to www.vernondowns.com. 

Petyr and King James Express get NYSS wins at Vernon.

 John Horne for Vernon Downs. 

 Vernon Downs played host for two divisions of the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for freshmen pacing colts & geldings on Friday (August 28).  Trainer Mark Harder sweeps both divisions.  

 Southwind Petyr (Dexter Dunn) charges late to win the $51,300 first division. 

 With unbeaten American Courage out of the race scratched sick, it was a wide-open affair.  What About Bob (Troy Beyer) took the lead as they went by the stands for the first time.  Southwind Petyr ($5.10) took control just before hitting the first quarter in :27.1.  Sauvignon Bluechip (Tyler Buter) came flying first-over from fourth and took command and hit the half first in :56.2.  Major Makover (Mark MacDonald) made a move first-over going around the final turn.  Sauvignon Bluechip still had a slight lead as he hit three-quarters first in 1:25.1. 

As they made the turn for home Major Makover came hard at Sauvignon Bluechip in the stretch.  Southwind Petyr desperately needed racing room.  He finally found an opening on the inside and squeezed right on by to win his first career race hitting the mile in 1:52.4.  Major Makover finished second with Sauvignon Bluechip settling for third. 

Southwind Petyr is a colt by American Ideal-Southwind Paris.  He is owned by Deena Frost, Wayne Carleton, Dean Lockhart, and trainer Harder.  It was his first win in two career starts. 

King James Express (Jason Bartlett) captures the $50,400 second division. 

Make My Deo (Tyler Buter) went to the lead and led to the first quarter in :27.0.  The big favorite I’ll Drink To That (Dexter Dunn) came first-up from third and took the lead hitting the first half on top in :55.1.  I’ll Drink To That looked strong hitting three-quarter first in 1:23.3. 

King James Express ($10.60) made his move from third as they reached the stretch.  He came flying down the stretch like he was fired out of a cannon.  He blew right on by to win in a lifetime best of 1:52.0.  I’ll Drink To That held on to finish second.  Stop Staring (Mark MacDonald) came up to finish third. 

King James Express is a gelding by Art Major-More Diamonds.  Owners Carleton, Frost, and Harder once again teamed up as part of the NYSS sweep.  He is now two for six in his career. 

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (August 29) with a 13-race card starting at 3 p.m. 

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com 

 

Tioga Downs to host NYSS freshmen trotters on Sunday.

Tioga Downs welcomes New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for 2-year-old trotting colts & geldings on Sunday (August 30).

Eight freshmen trotters are set to race for $104,400.  Ahundreddollarbill (Jason Bartlett) should be the horse to beat.  Trained by Dan Daley, he is a colt by Chapter Seven-Swinging Royalty.  The colt has pulled off back to back impressive NYSS wins at Saratoga and Vernon Downs.  He is two for four in his young career.

Special Prosecutor (Scott Zeron) and Dee's Red Delicious (Corey Callahan) should be his chief rivals.  The David Dewhurst trained Special Prosecutor (Chapter Seven-Valley Makayla) has two wins in five lifetime starts including a NYSS win at Yankers.   Dee's Red Delicious (Credit Winner-Apple Plush) already has a NYSS win at Tioga on July 26th.  The gelding trained by Bruce Saunders is two for five in his career.

The 13-race card starts at 1 p.m.

 For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.

Unbeaten American Courage headlines NYSS card at Vernon.

Vernon Downs welcomes two divisions of the New York Sire stakes (NYSS) for freshmen pacing colts & geldings on Friday (August 28).  

In the $51,300 first division all eyes will be on the unbeaten American Courage (Matt Kakaley).  The colt by American Ideal-Nota Fool Bluechip is trained by Travis Alexander.  So far he has been phenomenal with seven wins in seven starts.  He has won four legs of the NYSS plus a big win in the $104,250 MGM Springfield Stakes Final (Yonkers Raceway). 

The David Dziengiel trained Sauvignon Bluechip (Tyler Buter) should be his toughest rival.  The colt by Art Major-Some Girls Do picked up a NYSS victory at Yonkers in his last start. He has finished second to American Courage on two occasions.  

I’ll Drink To That (Dexter Dunn) is the top choice in the $50,400 second division.  The colt by American Ideal-Margarita Monday lost by just a half-length to American Courage in his last start.  Trained by Chris Ryder, he picked up a NYSS win at Tioga Downs for his only lifetime victory in four lifetime starts.  

King James Express (Jason Bartlett) and Carrythetorchman (Marcus Miller) should be major contenders.  King James Express (Art Major-More Diamonds) is trained by Mark Harder.  The gelding has a NYSS win at Saratoga for his lone career victory.  The Erv Miller trained Carrythetorchman is a colt by American Ideal-Kattimon.  He has two wins in six career starts. 

 The 15-race card starts at 3 p.m.  

For more information got www.vernondowns.com.  

Meadowlands Racetrack Offers Walk Up Teller Derby Day

Meadowlands Media Relations

 

East Rutherford, NJ - On Saturday, September 5^{th (Kenucky Derby Simulcast Day)} as an added convenience for our wagering public due to reduced racetrack capacity, the Meadowlands Racetrack will offer a walk-up Teller window in Lot M off of Berry’s Creek Road. 

 

Tellers will be available for wagering from 10 am through 7:00 pm.  Limited hours will also be available on Friday, September 4th.

Programs will be available for sale along with past performances for the Kentucky Derby.

For Derby Day details including dining options visit PlayMeadowlands.com 

UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE TO LAUNCH ARCI INVESTIGATOR CERTIFICATE PROGRAM WITH ONLINE TRAINING OCTOBER 5-6, 2020

 

 

Lexington, KY – August 24, 2020 –  The University of Louisville Equine Industry Program will formally launch the ARCI Racing Investigator Certificate Program online October 5-6, 2020.   Registration is now open at https://louisville.edu/business/payments/equine.   There is an $80 fee to defray university costs associated with offering the program.

 The program, an initiative of the Association of Racing Commissioners International (ARCI), is the first of its kind and has applicability to all existing and aspiring horse racing investigators.

“The job of a racing investigator is a specialty involving knowledge not only of police procedures concerning interrogation and evidence gathering but also of horseracing, the backstretch, and the horses themselves,” said RCI Chair Tom Sage of Nebraska, a former longtime law enforcement officer and racing investigator and past-Chair of the Organization of Racing Investigators.

The initial program will last two days and be conducted online by the UofL Equine Industry Program.   Additional programs may be conducted in person and the ARCI is committed to working with both the University of Louisville’s Equine Industry Program and the University of Arizona’s Racetrack Industry Program.

Those participating in the program will be deemed certified after passing an examination.  The RCI encourages commissions and racetracks to phase in a requirement for a current Racing Investigator Certificate as a requirement for employment.

RCI President, Ed Martin, who formerly served as the New York regulator responsible for some of racing’s most notable investigations – Breeders’ Cup Pick 6 Wagering Scandal, the NYRA Mutuel Department fraud conspiracy, OTB mismanagement, Yonkers Raceway drug search lockdown - noted that “proactive investigators will develop intelligence networks and not be hesitant to dig deep into any situation where things do not seem as they should.”

 “There is a tremendous amount of expertise and experience that is required to do this job properly,” he said, noting the work of the NY Gaming Commission in its effective records audit investigation and prosecution of a horse trainer who was circumventing the drug rules and testing lab and the work of the Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Nebraska commissions initiating a successful federal prosecution of illegal drug compounding used to facilitate horse doping.

The curricula for the program will focus on basic horsemanship skills, safety procedures in the barn or paddock areas, racing terminology, overview of officials and their duties, creating the condition book and drawing for the race as well as what is involved in preparing a horse for a racing career.  Equine care and medications, vet records, investigatory tools and techniques, interactions with other enforcement entities, evidence gathering, and ways cheaters attempt to avoid detection will also be addressed.

“The University of Louisville is excited for its collaborative work with the ARCI to bring this certification program to fruition, said Sean Beirne, Director of the UofL Equine Industry Program. “It is an important aspect of our mission to educate the professionals in the horse racing industry, to build on their knowledge, and provide resources to enhance and develop the methodology to create standards for the execution of their duties,” Beirne added.  

About ARCI

The RCI (ARCI) is the umbrella organization of the official governing rule making bodies for professional horse and greyhound racing.  The bulk of its members are located throughout North America and parts of the Caribbean although its standards are relied upon worldwide in making regulatory policy.

For 85 years, the ARCI has set international standards for racing regulation, medication policy, drug testing laboratories, totalizator systems, racetrack operation and security, as well as off-track wagering entities. ARCI’s regulatory authority members are the only independent entities recognized to license, enforce, and adjudicate matters pertaining to racing.

 About the UofL Equine Industry Program

There is no educational opportunity quite like the Equine Industry Program offered by the University of Louisville’s College of Business. For any young person aspiring to a career in the horse business, no other college degree is as useful. UofL’s equine majors take the entire business core, as well as 27 hours of specialized courses in the business of horses. UofL is located in the heart of horse country, so that instruction in the classroom is supplemented with field trips, prominent guest lecturers, and internships.

Individuals who have already completed a baccalaureate degree (BS or BA) may earn a one-year postgraduate Certificate in Equine Business. High academic standards and a unique program have attracted a faculty interested in the education and careers of students, and in the application of sound management to the equine industry.

As a participant in the conception of the original stewards’ program, the University of Louisville’s

Equine Industry Program has been conducting schools and testing stewards since 1989 and judges since 1995.

Hen Party and Splash Brother capture EBC's at Tioga.

 Tioga Downs played host to the Empire Breeders Classic (EBC) for 3-year-old pacing colts & geldings as well as 3-year-old pacing fillies on Sunday (August 23).  Also, on hand was three divisions of the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for freshmen trotting fillies. 

 Hen Party (Andrew McCarthy) breezes to win in the $223,500 EBC filly pace final. 

 Galleria Gal (Matt Kakaley) got the early lead but So Rude (Joe Bongiorno) went to the front just before hitting the first quarter in :26.2.  She would use a :28.3 second quarter to lead to the half in :55.1.  As they headed for the final turn Hen Party came first-over on the chase as So Rude hit three-quarters first in 1:22.0. 

 Hen Party took command as they made the turn for home.  As they reached the stretch, she made it a party of one as she cruised home in a lifetime best of 1:49.2.  Galleria Gal came up to finish second with Dragon Roll (Dexter Dunn) getting third. 

 Hen Party is a 3-year-old filly by Roll With Joe.  She is owned by Crawford Farms Racing and trained by Tony Alagna.  It was her fifth win this season and eighth career victory. 

Splash Brother (Tyler Buter) gets impressive victory in the $240,600 EBC colts & geldings final. 

Save Me A Dance (Jason Bartlett) wrestled his way to the front and led to the first quarter in :26.1.  Groovy Joe (Matt Kakaley) then took over as they headed by the stands for the first time.  He led the group the half in :54.4.  Blank Stare (Corey Callahan) was the first to make a move as he went first-over heading to the backstretch.  Splash Brother ($9.30) took cover moving second-over fourth.  Groovy Joe and Blank Stare went side by side all the way down the backstretch.    Groovey Joe had a short lead to three-quarters in 1:22.1. 

As they made the turn for home Splash Brother came charging three-wide and flew right on by to take the lead as they reached the stretch.  Second place finisher Major Betts (Dexter Dunn) came flying late but could only watch as Splash Brother won going away in 1:50.0.  Blank Stare had to settle for third. 

Splash Brother is a 3-year-old gelding by So Surreal.  He is owned by Nolamaura Racing LLC., Steven Arnold, Tammy Flannery, and trainer Ray Schnittker.  It was his fourth win of the season and of his career. 

Aela Jamieson (Andy Miller) charges late to win the $34,200 NYSS first division. 

Dream Chapter (Wally Hennessey) jumped out to the early lead but Tranaquility K took control just before hitting the first quarter in :27.4.  Dream Chapter reclaimed the lead as they went by the stands for the first time.  She hit the half first in :58.1.  Me Three (Brian Sears) was the first to make a move going first-over.  Aela Jamieson ($6.00) followed second over fourth.  Dream Chapter continued to lead as they hit three-quarters in 1:26.4. 

As they turned for home Aela Jamieson emerged into second and it became a two-horse race.  Dream Chapter dug in but Aela Jamieson came flying down the stretch like a rocket.  She would just get by to win in a lifetime best of 1:55.1.  Dream Chapter had to settle for second.  Illuminata (Ake Svanstedt) came up to finish third.  

Aela Jamieson is a 2-year-old filly by Chapter Seven-Blk Thai Optional.  She is trained by Julie Miller for owners Andy Miller Stable, Dumain Haven Farm, and Little E LLC.  It was her second career win in four lifetime starts. 

Moni For Lindy (Scott Zeron) goes three-wide to capture the $33,600 NYSS second division. 

Insured AM S secured the lead just before hitting the first quarter in :28.0.  She used a :29.2 second quarter to lead to the half in :57.2.  Splash Blue Chip (Ake Svanstedt) came first over on the back stretch as Moni For Lindy ($11.20) followed.  Splash Blue Chip took a slight lead and hit three-quarters first in 1:26.4. 

As the made the turn for home, Insured AM S battle back and went shoulder to shoulder with Splash Blue Chip.  Moni For Lindy came charging three-wide and blew right on by in deep stretch to win in 1:55.3.  Splash Blue Chip finished second.  Insured AM S settled for third. 

Moni For Lindy is a 2-year-old filly by Credit Winner-Live Moni.  She is owned by Moni Maker Stable and trained by Domenico Cecere.  It was her first career victory and three lifetime starts. 

Destined To Dance (Tyler Buter) waltzes to fifth straight win by capturing the $33,600 NYSS third division. 

Iteration (Brian Sears) went straight to the front and led to the first quarter in :27.2 and to the half in :56.2.  Destined To Dance ($3.50) made her move first-over from fourth working her way into second as Iteration led to three-quarters in 1:25.2. 

As they made the turn for home Destined To Dance and Iteration battled all the way down the stretch but in the end Destined To Dance was too strong and she won in a track record time for 2-year-old trotting fillies in 1:54.4.  Soukup Blue Chip (Andy Miller) came flying late to finish second.  Iteration had to settle for third money. 

Destined To Dance is a 2-year-old filly by Chapter Seven-Go Go Dancer.  She is trained by John Butenschoen for owners Crawford Farms Racing, Rich Preziotti, and Heritage Standardbreds.  It was her fifth straight win in six lifetime starts. 

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (August 29) at 3 p.m. 

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com. 

Merton wins four including feature at Tioga.

Mike Merton drove four winners including the $6,500 featured trot with Clarion Hall at Tioga Downs on Saturday (August 22). 

In the feature, Prairie Fortune (Mike Simons) passed Groovey Kid (Wally Hennessey) just before hitting the first quarter in:28.2.  Prairie Fortune used a :28.3 second quarter to hit the half in :57.0.  He would open at four lengths as they hit three-quarters in 1:25.0. 

As they went around the final turn Clarion Hall ($15.60) moved first-over into second and went on the chase.  Prairie Fortune went on a break in the stretch.  Clarion Hall inherited the lead and had to brace for a late charge from second place finisher Uncle Hanover (Kyle DiBenedetto) to win in1:55.1.  Groovey Joe was third Best.  

Clarion Hall is a 6-year-old gelding by Windsong Espoir.  He is owned by Michael Spaccerelli and trained by Rob Harmon.  It was his fifth win this season and his 19^th career victory. 

Merton got his other wins with Bravo Tex N ($4.40), Lightfootedlegend ($12.80), and Devissor ($4.10). 

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Sunday (August 23).  The 15-race card features the $223,500 Empire Breeders Classic (EBC) for 3-year-old pacing fillies as well as the $240,600 EBC for 3-year-old pacing colts & geldings.  Post time is 1 p.m. 

 For more information go to www,tiogadowns.com 

Noahs Mill wins Vernon Downs feature.

 Noahs Mill (Mitchell Cushing) charges late to capture the $3,600 featured pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday (August 22). 

 Noahs Mill ($6.40) got the first call but Seel The Deal N (Jennifer Lappe) came flying from his outside post and took control hitting the first quarter first in :26.4.  He controlled the pace hitting the half first in :55.2.  The first to make a move was The Dough Man (Joe Nassimos) going first-over in to second.  Noahs Mill followed second over and took over third as Seel The Deal N still led to three-quarters in 1;23.1. 

 As they made the turn for home Seel The Deal N continued to lead but started to tire.  Noahs Mill came flying down the lane as Seel The Deal N dug in.  Noahs Mill last lunge was enough to get the victory in 1:52.2.  Seel The Deal N had to settle for second.  Golden Gun (Claude Huckabone Jr.) was third best.   

 Noahs Mill is a 5-year-old gelding by Camluck.  He is owned by Terence Miller and trained by Ashley Eldred.  It was his first win of 2020.  He has 17 career victories. 

 John MacDonald drove three winners and leads all drivers with 32 wins.  Howard Parker had three wins and is two back with 30 tallies so far.  Leon Bailey drove two winners and is third with 26 wins.  Jimmy Whittemore (24) and Roman Lopez (12) round out the top five 

 George Ducharme and Kerin Warner lead all trainers with 13 trips to the winner’s circle each.  David Dewhurst is third with 12 victories.  Brandy Wine and Claude Huckabone III are tied for fourth with 11 wins a piece. 

 Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday (August 28) starting at 3:00 p.m. 

 For more information go to www.vernondowns.com. 

Ramona Hill and Ready For Money take Zweig races at Vernon.

Vernon Downs played host to the Harry M. Zweig Memorial races on Friday (August 21). The $160,140 Zweig for 3-year-old trotting fillies and the $330,000 Zweig for 3-year-old open class for trotters.  Also, included on the 15-race card was two divisions of the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for freshmen trotting colts & geldings.   

Ramona Hill (Andrew McCarthy) is supreme in the Harry M. Zweig Memorial for fillies. 

The Hambletonian Oaks winner, Sorella (Dexter Dunn) went on a break right at the start.  Ramona Hill ($2.40) easily took the lead heading for the first quarter followed by Hypnotic AM (Brian Sears), Fortune Starlet (Walley Hennessey), and Tricky Sister (Jason Bartlett).  Ramona Hill hit the first quarter in :28.0.  She was firmly in control using a :28.3 second quarter to coast to the half in :56.3.  The order was unchanged with a third panel of :28.0.  Ramona Hill led easy as could be to three-quarters in 1:24.3. 

As they made the turn for home Hypnotic AM was all-out with the chase but McCarthy never moved a muscle and Ramona Hill glided to an easy win in 1:52.0.  Hypnotic AM had to settle for second money.  Tricky Sister moved up to finish third. 

Ramona Hill is a 3-year-old filly by Muscle Hill.  The Hambletonian winner is trained by Tony Alagna for owners Brad Grant, Robert LeBlanc, Crawford Farms Racing, and In The Gym Partners.  She is four for five as a sophomore and 10 for 12 in her career. 

Ready For Moni (Matt Kakaley) sets track record in the Harry M. Zweig Memorial open class for 3-year-old trotters. 

King Alphonso (Dexter Dunn) left the gate first bu Big Oil (Andy Miller) gained control just before hitting the first quarter in :26.4.  As they reached the backstretch Back Of The Neck (Scott Zeron) was the first to make a move going first-over to lead to the half in :56.0.  Ready For Moni ($3.30) followed the move second over and swooped to the lead as they headed for the final turn.  He was strong on the lead using a :27.1 third quarter to get to three-quarters in 1:23.1.   

As they reached the stretch second place finisher Back Of The Neck gave it everything he had in the chase.  Ready For Moni had a lot in the tank and easily won setting a track record for 3-year-old trotting colts in 1:51.1.  King Alphonso was a distant third. 

Ready For Moni is a 3-year-old colt by Ready Cash.  He is trained by Nancy Takter for owners John Fielding, Herb Liverman, Lindy Farm Of Conn, and Bud Hatfield.  It was his third win this season with his only loss of the year to Ramona Hill in the Hambletonian.  He now has seven career victories none faster than tonight’s win. 

Ambassador Hanover (Ake Svanstedt) and Ahundreddollarbill (Jason Bartlett) each nab NYSS wins. 

Unbeaten Ambassador Hanover ($3.10) wins the $51,300 first division. 

Ambassador Hanover went straight to the front but Black Tie Bash (Brian Sears) took over the top spot and led to the first quarter in :28.0.  He slowed things down using a :30.1 second quarter to hit the half in :58.1.  He continued on the lead and hit three-quarters first in 1:26.1. 

As they made the turn for home Ambassador Hanover popped out of the pocket and came charging at Black Tie Bash in the stretch.  The two were slugging it out it all the way down the  stretch and were joined by a late bid from Dee’s Red Delicious (Corey Callshan), who came flying three-wide in deep stretch forcing a three-way photo finish with Ambassador Hanover picking up the win in a lifetime best of 1:56.0.  Dee’s Red Delicious finished second.  Black Tie Bash had to settle for third. 

Ambassador Hanover is a 2-year-old colt by Chapter Seven-Angel Eyes Hanover.  He is owned by Howard Taylor, Judith Taylor, Order By Stable, and trainer Svanstedt.  He is a perfect four for four life time. 

Ahundreddollarbill ($2.80) takes the $52,200 second division. 

Incommunicado (Ake Svanstedt) charges to the front and put up the early fractions (:28.0, :57.0).  Ahundreddollarbill made his move first-over from fourth going around the final turn.  Incommunicado remained in front hitting three-quarters first in 1:26.2. 

Ahundreddollarbill flew to the front as they made the turn for home.  The colt just cruised down the stretch to win easily in a lifetime best of 1:56.0.  Special Prosecutor (Brian Sears) came up to finish second.  Incommunicado held on for third. 

Ahundreddollarbill is a colt by Chapter Seven-Swinging Royalty.  He is trained by Dan Daley for owners Crawford Farms Racing, Ann-Mari Daley, and James Crawford IV.  He is now two for four in his young career. 

 Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (August 22) with a 13-race card starting at 3 p.m. 

 For more information go to www.vernondowns.com 

 

Derby Day Attendance & Dining at the Meadowlands Racetrack

 

Meadowlands Media Relations

East Rutherford, NJ - Guaranteed seating for Kentucky Derby Simulcast Day, Saturday, September 5^th at the Meadowlands Racetrack is now on sale. 

Due to limited attendance capacities and COVID protocols, onsite attendance is limited to the following:

• Café seating
• Backyard BBQ & Grill seating
• East Deck dining
• West Deck dining
• three hundred pre-paid general admission tickets

Thirty Café picnic tables are available. The Café will have waitress service and be tented for guest comfort. Guests can dine on racetrack staples including chicken wings and French fries, cheese steaks, burgers, pretzels, popcorn, ice cream and more. Reservations must be pre-paid and are $100 per table. Each table seats up to four people. The $100 is also a food credit that can be used at the outdoor Café on Kentucky Derby Day. The credit is valid on Saturday, September 5^th only.

Café tables can be purchased here

Backyard seating is limited for Derby Day. The Backyard BBQ & Grill opens at 11 am will have waitress service. Guests can dine delicious summer-time grilled fare including burgers, sausage and hot dog along with brisket, ribs and mac & cheese. 

Backyard reservations must be pre-paid and are $25 per person. The $25 is also a food credit that can be used at the Backyard BBQ & Grill and Backyard Bar.

Reservations for Backyard dining can be made by emailing Jennifer Jordan at jjordan@arkrestaurants.com. Please include your phone number in the email. All Backyard diners should enter via the Backyard entrance. 

Eight East Deck high top dining tables are also available. The East Deck will have waitress service and is covered for guest comfort. Guests can dine on great BBQ from the Backyard BBQ & Grill. Reservations must be pre-paid and are $100 per table. Each table seats up to four people. The $100 is also a food credit that can be used at the Backyard Grill on Kentucky Derby Day. The credit is valid on Saturday, September 5^th only.

East Deck tables can be purchased here. 

The West Deck has a $49.95 pre fixe lunch menu featuring a variety of cold salads, grilled items along with a selection of pre-packaged desserts will also be available.  Reservations are required and dining must be prepaid.  Reservations can be made by calling Marianne Rotella at 201-842-5059 or emailing mrotella@playmeadowlands.com.  Please keep in mind seating is limited and begins at 11am.

Guests not interested in dining can purchase an admission only ticket for $10.  It guarantees track entrance through the Simulcast Entrance from 9 am – 7pm. Tickets are available here.

Guests must make dining reservations for track admittance and guaranteed seating.  All must wear face coverings while not at their table, have their temperature checked and complete a brief health questionnaire.  No one with a temperature exceeding 100.4 will be allowed to enter. All are also encouraged to download and fill out the required the health questionnaire (available here) to speed up the check-in process.   There is no valet parking available.

All updated racing and dining information can be found at PlayMeadowlands.com.

Guardian Angel AS is upset winner in Crawford Farms Open at Tioga.

 Guardian Angel AS (Tim Tetrick) holds off Gimpanzee (Brian Sears) and Crystal Fashion (Jordan Stratton) to win the $220,000 Crawford Farms Open Trot at Tioga Downs on a huge day of  racing on Sunday (August 16).

Guardian Angel AS ($26.60) went straight to the front hitting the first quarter first in :26.0.  He would go :28.2 in the second quarter to hit the half in :54.2.  Two-time New York Sire Stakes champion and the recent winner of Hambletonian Maturity, Gimpanzee made his move first-over from third as they went down the backstretch.  Guardian Angel AS remained firmly in control as he led to three-quarters 1:22.1.

Gimpanzee continued to grind it out in the stretch as he slowly got closer to Guardian Angel AS.  Crystal Fashion (Jordan Stratton) made a bid, charging three-wide in deep stretch.  Gimpanzee kept coming but Guardian Angel AS dug in and held on to win while posting a track record for aged horses in 1:50.4.  Gimpanzee had to settle for second.  It was his first loss in six starts this season.  Crystal Fashion finished third.

Guardian Angel AS is a 6-year-old horse by Archangel.  He is trained by Anette Lorentzon for owners ACL Stuteri Ab, and Kjell Johansson.  It was his second win this season and 25th career victory.

Plunge Blue Chip (Scott Zeron) charges late to win the $133,000 Joie D Vie Open Mare Trot.

The big favorite Manchego went charging to the front followed by Plunge Blue Chip ($10.00).  Manchego was first to the quarter in :26.1.  She used a :29.1 second quarter to hit the half in :55.2.  The mare continued to cruise along hitting three-quarters in 1:22.4.

As they made the turn for home Plunge Blue Chip popped out of the pocket and made her move.  Manchego tried to fend her off but Plunge Blue Chip powered her way to the front.   Felictyshagwell S (Andy Miller) came flying late but Plunge Blue Chip had the jump and held on to win in a seasonal best of 1:51.3.  Felictyshagwell S was second best. Manchego had to settle for third.

 Plunge Blue Chip is a 5-year-old mare by Muscle Mass.  Owned by Blue Chip Bloodstock Inc., Tomas Anderson, and trainer Ake Svanstedt.  It was her second win of 2020.  She now has 21 career victories.

 Shartin N (Tim Tetrick) cruises to an easy win in the $129,000 Artiscape Open Mare Pace.

 Stonebridge Soul (Corey Callahan) got the first call out of the gate but Shartin N ($2.10) quickly went by to hit the first quarter first in :26.4.  She used a :28.2 second quarter to be first to the half in :55.1.  She zipped along down the backstretch with a :26.1 third quarter hitting three-quarters in 1:21.2.

 As they reached the stretch second place finisher Stonebridge Soul was the only one with a chance but Shartin N was just too strong and won easily in 1:48.4.  That was just one-fifth off the track record. Tall Drink Hanover (David Miller) came up to finish third.

 Shartin N is a 7-year-old mare by Tintin In America.  She is trained by Jim King Jr. for owners Richard Poillucci, Jo Ann Looney-King, and Tim Tetrick LLC.  It was win number five in six starts this season.  She now has 46 career wins.

 Hen Party (Andrew McCarthy) and Pettycoat Business (Scott Zeron) each win the eliminations for the Empire Breeders Classic (EBC).

 In the First Elimination Hen Party ($4.50) took the lead in the stretch and held off the late charge of So Rude (Brian Sears) to win in a lifetime best of 1:50.  Dragon Roll (Dexter Dunn) finished third.  They all qualified for next weeks EBC Final along with Gallaria Gal (Matt Kakaley) and JK Finendandy (Tim Tetrick).

 Hen Party is a 3-year-old filly by Roll With Joe.  It was her fourth win this season and seventh career victory.  She is owned by Crawford Farms Racing and trained by Tony Alagna.

 Pettycoat Business ($3.50) breezed to an easy win in the second division.  She took control just before the half and never looked back winning in a lifetime best of 1:52.0.  Moaning Lisa (Dexter Dunn) was second.  Discofordollar (David Miller) finished third and Turnthefrownaround (Corey Callahan) was fourth.  They all qualified for the EBC final with Eye Popping (Tim Tetrick) being named as also eligible.  

 Pettycoat Business is a 3-year-old filly by Art Major.  She is trained by Brian Brown for owners Michael Robinson, Robert Mondillo, RBH Ventures Inc., and Gillbilly Stables.  She is now two for five in her career.

 Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (August 22) with a post time of 3:00 p.m.

 For more information got to www.tiogadowns.com

 

Hennessey wins five including feature at Tioga Downs

 Wally Hennessey drove five winners including the $6,000 featured pace with Fernado at Tioga Downs on Saturday (August 15).

 In the feature, Catcha Lefty A (Mike Merton) jumped out to the lead and led to the first quarter in :27.3.  He used a :30 second quarter to hit the half first in :57.3.  As they headed for three-quarters  Fernado ($7.40) popped out of the pocket and forced the hard charging How Are Yee John (Shawn Simons) to go three-wide as Catcha Lefty A still had a slight lead hitting three-quarters in 1:25.3.

 They were three across the track as they made the turn for home.  Second place finisher Catcha Lefty A dug in but could not hold off the late charge by Fernado, who won in 1:54.0.  Mac Anover (Bruce Aldrich Jr.) came flying late to finish third.

 Fernado is a 6-year-old gelding by Delmarvalous.  He is owned and trained by Jim McDonald.  It was his seventh win this season.  He now has 20 career victories.

 Hennessey got his other wins with Agedchedar Hanover ($5.80), Burn Notice ($7.30), Prairie Fortune ($5.60), and Standing Respect ($10.20).

 Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Sunday (August 16).  They welcome the Grand Circuit as the 13 race card features the $133,000 Joie D Vie, $129,000 Artiscape, $229,000 Crawford Farms Open Trot, and the Empire Breeders Classic eliminations for 3-year-old pacing fillies.

 For more information go to www.vernondowns.com

Freshmen fillies shine in NYSS at Vernon Downs.

Vernon Downs played host to three divisions of the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for 2-year-old trotting fillies on Saturday (August 15).

Destined To Dance (Tyler Buter) outduels Dream Chapter (Mark MacDonald) to win the $33,600 first division.

 Me Three (Brian Sears) got the first call but the lead was short lived when Dream Chapter took over and led to the first quarter in :26.4.  Dream Chapter continued to lead to the half in :57.1.  That's when Destined To Dance ($3.10) made her move first-over from fourth.  She took the lead but could not clear going around the final turn.  Destined to Dance led to three-quarters in 1:25.4.

The battle began as they reached the stretch.  Destined to Dance and Dream Chapter were shoulder-to-shoulder battling back and forth neither one were giving an inch.  Destined to Dance used one last surge to win in a lifetime best of 1:54.4.  Dream Chapter had to settle for second.  Me Three finished third.

Destined To Dance is a filly by Chapter Seven-Go Go Dancer.  John Butenschoen trains for owners Crawford Farms Racing, Heritage Standardbreds, and Rich Preziotti.  She has won four straight NYSS races.

 Aela Jamieson (Andy Miller) rallies late to take the $34,200 second division.

 Tranquility K (Larry Stalbaum) stormed to the front and led to the first quarter in :28.0.  Insured AM S (Brian Sears) took control right after the quarter.  She used a :29.3 second quarter to lead to the half in :57.3.  The first to make a move was Avant Garde (Ake Svanstedt) as they headed for the final turn.  Insured AM S held on to a short lead as they hit three-quarters in 1:27.3.

 Aela Jamieson ($5.40) was second-over fourth as they made the turn for home.  She came three-wide down the stretch and blew right on by to win in a lifetime best of 1:56.2.  Insured AM S held on for second.  Tranquility K was third best.

 Aela Jamieson is a filly by Chapter Seven-Blk Thai Optional.  Julie Miller trains for owners Andy Miller Stable, Dumain Haven Farm, and Little E LLC.  It was her first career win in three lifetime starts.

 Iteration (Brian Sears) captures the $33,600 third division.

 Iteration ($3.00) darted right out to the front with main rival Splash Blue Chip (Ake Stanstedt) following in the pocket.  Iteration led to the first quarter in :27.1.  She slowed things down using a :31.0 second quarter to hit the half in :58.1.  She continued to control the race hitting three-quarters in 1:28.0.

 As they reached the stretch Splash Blue Chip popped out of the pocket and gave everything she had but had to settle for second as Iteration won in a lifetime best of 1:55.2.  Moni For Lindy (Mark MacDonald) was third best.

 Iteration is a filly by Chapter Seven-Steamy Windows.  She is a full sister to two-time NYSS champion Gimpanzee.  She is owned by Courant Inc. and trained by Marcus Melander.  It was her second win in three lifetime starts.

 Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday (August 21) featuring the Zweig Memorial starting at 3:00 p.m.

 For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.

 

J-Mac wins five and Jenny Lake takes feature at Vernon.

The red hot John MacDonald drives five winners and Jenny Lake (Leon Bailey) takes the $4,400 featured trot at Vernon Downs on Friday (August 14).

MacDonald drove his first winner in race two with Reckless Image ($4.60).  He went back-to-back winning race four and five with Dream On A Roll ($7.40) and Lucky Sevens ($6.20).  He got his fourth win of the night in race eight with longshot Fiona ($24.20).  Win number five came in race nine with A Lister ($13.00).

In the featured trot Jenny Lake ($5.00) went straight to the front but Aces And Eights (Dan Daley) took control just before hitting the first quarter in :26.2.  He went first to the half in :55.4.  Spoiler Alert (Howard Parker) was the first to make a move going first-over around the final turn.  He would take the lead just after Ace And Eights hit three-quarters in 1:25.4.

Jenny Lake made her move in the stretch.  She would wear down the gritty Spoiler Alert to win in 1:54.1.  Spoiler Alert settled for second money.  Midnite Craze (Ivan Davies) was third.

Jenny Lake is a 4-year-old mare by RC Royalty.  Paul Minckler trains for owners Ed Nimiotka Jr. and Carol Namiotka.  It was her fifth win this season.  She now has 13 career victories.

Bailey drove two more winners on the night.  His other victories came with The Band K ($6.50), and Warrawee Preferred ($4.20)

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (August 15) featuring three divisions of the New York Sire Stakes for freshmen trotting fillies.  The 15-race card starts at 3 p.m.

 

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.

Vernon Downs to host NYSS on Saturday.

Vernon Downs welcomes three divisions of the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for 2-year-old trotting fillies on Saturday (August 15).

The John Butenschoen trained Destined To Dance (Tyler Buter) should be the big favorite in the $33,600 first division.  The filly by Chapter Seven-Go Go is three for three on the NYSS circuit.  She has claimed wins at Saratoga, Yonkers, and Batavia.

Her top contender should be Broad Strokes (Chapter Seven-Lady Marian).  The filly is one for two in r career with a NYSS win at Batavia.  She is trained and driven by Ake Svanstedt.

The top choice in the $34,200 second division is the Marcus Melander trained Insured AM S (Brian Sears).  She is one for two in her career.  The Chapter Seven-Blur Muscles filly captured a leg of the NYSS at Yonkers.

Her chief rival should be the Maureen Salino trained Credit Income (John Stark Jr.).  The Credit Winner-Income Devie filly has a win and two seconds in three career starts.

Splash Blue Chip (Ake Svanstedt) and Iteration (Brian Sears) will be the major contenders in the $33,600 third division.

Splash Blue Chip (E L Titan-Dunk The Donato) is trained by Svanstedt.  She has a NYSS win at Saratoga and a second-place finish at Yonkers in two lifetime starts.

The Marcus Melander trained Iteration (Chapter Seven-Steamy Windows) is one for two in her career.  She finished a close second to Splash Blue Chip at Saratoga.

The 15-race card starts at 3 p.m.

For more information goes to www.vernondowns.com

KJ Leo wins Tioga feature.

KJ Leo (Jim Taggert Jr.) charges late to capture the $6,500 featured pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday (August 9).

Catcha Lefty A (Mike Merton) went straight to the front but Harry Terror (Wally Hennessey) went by and took the lead just before hitting the first quarter in :27.3.  Harry Terror used a :28.3 second quarter to hit the half first in :56.1.  Gibbs (Bruce Aldrich Jr.) was the first to make a move down the backstretch but stalled getting into third.  Harry Terror looked firmly in control as he hit three-quarters in 1:23.3.

KJ Leo ($11.80) was fourth as they made the turn for home.  He found an opening and came flying three-wide to blow by second place finisher Harry Terror to win in a lifetime best of 1:52.1.  Catcha Lefty A finished third.

KJ Leo is a 4-year-old gelding by Art Major.  He is trained by Gary Messenger for owners Phillip Shapiro, Brenda Messenger, and Scott Woogen.  It was his second win this season.  He now has 11 career victories.

Wally Hennessey drove three winners on the card and leads all drivers with 63 wins.  Mike Merton is second best with 47 victories.  Tyler Buter and Corey Braden are tied for third with 21 trips to the winner's circle each.  Bruce Aldrich Jr. is fifth with 17 wins.

Gaston Lareau and Rob Harmon are in a tie for most training wins with 31 wins a piece.  Joe Skowyra is in third place with 21 victories.  Jim McDonald  is  fourth with 20 tallies.  Mike Deters has won 18 races to round out the top five.

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (August 15) starting at 3 p.m.

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com

GINGRAS CATCHES DUNN FOR BIG M DRIVER TITLE

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Yannick Gingras came from “off the pace” to best Dexter Dunn in the hotly contested battle for top driver at the Meadowlands meeting that came down to Saturday’s Hambletonian Day card.

By winning three races Friday and four more Saturday, Gingras overcame Dunn’s 82-79 lead in the standings entering the final weekend of racing. After Dunn won the final race of the meet – with 19-1 shot Starvin Marvin – he stood one behind Gingras, who won the title by a count of 86 to 85. Gingras and Dunn also finished 1-2 in money earnings.

Ron Burke, the winner of 12 consecutive national trainer titles, topped the Big M trainer colony in wins with 50. Nancy Takter was the leading money-earning trainer. She had just over $1 million in earnings heading into Hambo Day.

Leading owners at the meeting were Pollack Racing LLC and Jeffrey Cullipher.

HANDLE HIGHLIGHTS: All-source North American wagering on the 16-race Hambo Day card totaled $5,730,615, by far the highest total in the industry in 2020. It marked the second time during the 41-program meeting where wagering topped the $5-million plateau.

On 33 occasions, wagering went past the $2.5-million mark, while the $3-million barrier was busted 10 times.

Wagering on the Hambletonian was red hot, as a total of $845,469 was pushed through the windows on the 11^th race Saturday, an increase of $322,305 over last year (61 percent).

Wagering totals from international outlets will not be known for several days.

A LITTLE MORE: Andy McCarthy not only won his first Hambletonian, but was the top driver on Hambo Day, winning five times. … Tony Alagna trained three to victory lane, all were driven by McCarthy. … Live racing at The Meadowlands resumes on Saturday, Sept. 5 at 7:15 p.m., and with the exception of Christmas Day, will be conducted on the normal Friday-Saturday schedule through the end of the year. 

 

Coveredndiamonds N and Clarion Hall grab Tioga features.

John Horne for Tioga Downs.

Driver Mike Merton and trainer Rob Harmon sweep co-features at Tioga Downs with Coveredndiamonds N and Clarion Hall on Saturday (August 8).

Coveredndiamonds N ($5.70) captures the $5,500 featured fillies & mares pace.

Prairie Westerngal (Wally Hennessy) took the field to the first quarter in :26.4.  Coveredndiamonds N followed in the pocket as Prairie Westerngal used a :30.2 second quarter to lead to the half in :57.1.  New Number Who Dis (Michael Deruntz) was the first to make a move going first-over into third but was just sputtering on the outside as Prairie Westerngal led to three-quarters in 1:26.1.

As they made the turn for home Coveredndiamonds N popped out of the pocket and charged down the stretch to win in a seasonal best of 1:53.1 Prairie Westerngal had to settle for second best.  Grant Me This (Jim Meittinis) finished third.

Coveredndiamonds N is 7-year-old mare by American Ideal.  She is owned by Harmon Racing stable and Joel Kahan.  It was her second win this season and her 21^st career victory.

Clarion Hall ($4.40) wins the $5,500 featured trot.

Aquillo (Jim Meittinis) charges right out to the lead and led the first quarter in :27.4   Aquillo used a :29.0 second quarter to lead to the half in:56.4.  Clarion Hall made his move as they headed for the backstretch going first-over from third.  He took control just before hitting three-quarters in 1:25.3.  

Clarion Hall was joined by Joined by Lightfootedlegend (Bruce Aldrich) as they made the turn for home.  Clarion Hall dug down deep and found something extra to win in 1:55.3.  Lightfootedlegend was second best with Rose Run Rudi (Corey Braden) coming up to finish third.

Clarion Hall is a 6-year-old gelding by Windsong Espoir.  He is owned by Michael Spaccarelli.  It was his third straight win and fourth this season.  He now has 18 career victoires.

Mike Merton and Bruce Aldrich Jr. each drove three winners on the card.

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Sunday (August 9) with a 10-race card starting at 1 p.m.

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.

Calvin B captures feature and J-Mac drives gets slam at Vernon.

 

John Horne for Vernon Downs.

Calvin B (Mitchell Cushing) takes the $4.400 featured pace and John MacDonald gets a grand slam at Vernon Downs on Saturday (August 8)

In the feature Rock On Moe (Dan Daley) went to the front but Calvin B ($18.00) took the lead just before hitting the first quarter in :27.3.  Twinsburg (Howard Parker) then took over heading for the backstretch and led to the half in :56.0.  Calvin B made his move as Twinsburg hit three-quarters first in 1:24.0.

Calvin B went to the front as they reached the stretch.   Sgt Papa Daddy (John MacDonald) came three-wide in deep stretch but Calvin B was too strong and won in 1:52.0.  Twinsburg held on to finish second with Sgt Papa Daddy claiming third best.

Calvin B is a 10-year-old gelding by Bettor’s Delight.  He is owned by Delores Smiel and trained by Jimmy Nickerson.  It was his first win in 2020.  He now has 45 lifetime victories.

John MacDonald got his wins with Feelin Lucky ($16.40), Winery Hanover ($8.60), Notwithoutafight ($2.50) and Brookdale Bruiser ($5.70).

Howard Parker leads all drivers with 26 wins.  Jimmy Whittemore is second with 24 driving victories.  John MacDonald finds himself in third place with 21 tallies.  Leon Bailey (19) and Roman Lopez (12) round out the top five.

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday (August 14) at 3 p.m.

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com