FRANCO TOTEM N SCORES AT BIG M

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – All it took for Franco Totem N to get back to the winner’s circle was a little class relief, and on Saturday night at The Meadowlands, he showed his class in taking the $21,000 featured pace for non-winners of $14,000 in their last five starts.

The gelded son of Changeover-Treaty Franco last won when in at this level on Oct. 24. Three solid outings (two fourths and a second) would follow at the non-winners of $20,000 level, which prepped him perfectly for Saturday night.

In the early going, the Nifty Norman trainee sat third before vacating the rail and going after leader B Stoney. Franco Totem N led at the half in :55 while parked before settling on the point. De Los Cielos Deo, the 8-5 favorite who was seeking his fourth win in five tries, came calling first-over approaching and around the far turn, but never got close enough to make Franco Totem N sweat, as the Dexter Dunn-driven 7-year-old hit the wire 1½ lengths to the good in 1:49.3 after coming home in :26.4. De Los Cielos Deo held second with Mindtrip rallying for third.

Owned by Enzed Racing Stable and Jerry Kovach, Franco Totem N returned $7.60 as the second choice in the wagering. He now has 26 wins from 88 career starts and earnings of $226,130.

PROLIFIC PAYOFFS: One shrewd player betting into the Elite Turf Club hub had him or herself quite a night, calling out the only winning ticket in the track’s 20-cent Pick-5, and walked away with a giant payout of $55,157.16.

The key to victory was 75-1 shot Quagmire Bluechip, who scored in the fourth race. The winner’s odds for the sequence were 9-2, 5-2, 4-1, 75-1 and 7-2, as none were sent to the gate as the betting favorite.

The 20-cent Pick-6, which had a carryover of $5,214, ended up with a total pool of $32,358. Despite a sequence that saw favorites win legs five (4-5) and six (6-5), only two sharp handicappers hit the wager for $14,143.12. The first four legs saw winner’s odds of 9-2, 7-1, 5-2 and 6-1.

Another multi-leg wager that yielded only one winner was the 20-cent Survivor Pick-7. Betting into the Oregon hub, he or she held the only ticket with the first five winners of the sequence and cashed in for $7,930.54. Once again, Quagmire Bluechip provided the boost to the payoff.

A LITTLE MORE: Dexter Dunn led the driver’s colony with three winners. … Dave Miller had a second consecutive driving double. … All-source wagering totaled $2,667,691, the fourth straight Saturday where wagering exceeded the $2.5-million mark. … Racing resumes Friday at 7:15 p.m.

BIG M PICK-5 RETURNS $55,157

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – One shrewd player betting into the Elite Turf Club hub had him or herself quite a night Saturday at The Meadowlands, as that bettor had the only winning ticket in the track’s 20-cent Pick-5 and walked away with a giant payout of $55,157.16.

The key to victory was 75-1 shot Quagmire Bluechip, who scored in the fourth race. The winner’s odds for the sequence were 9-2, 5-2, 4-1, 75-1 and 7-2, as none were sent to the gate as the betting favorite.

DELTASUN A UPSETS IN BIG M FEATURE

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Heading into the Friday night featured $25,000 high-end conditioned trot at The Meadowlands, Deltasun A had won two of his last four starts, and while he was facing better foes than he had in recent outings, he was dismissed at odds of 16-1, and that created a big payday for his fans.

Driven by George Napolitano Jr. and trained by Andrew Harris, Deltasun A was racing in sixth as the field of eight straightened away down the backstretch. Napolitano moved the 7-year-old gelded son of Tenotrump-Deltasu to the outside and made his way toward leader Warrior One, who had cut out front-end fractions of :27.2 and :55.3, and continued to race on the point past three-quarters in 1:24.4.

Just before the three-quarter mark, 8-5 favorite JL Cruze popped out of the pocket to take his shot at the leader, which provided a live tow for Deltasun A around the far turn. Deltasun A tipped off his cover at the eighth pole, and with some energetic handling from Napolitano, gunned down JL Cruze at the wire by a neck in 1:53.1, just a fifth of a second slower than his lifetime best. Warrior One held third.

Owned by Douglas Overhiser, A Harris Racing and Michael Goldberg Racing, Deltasun A returned $34.60 to his appreciative backers. He now has 22 victories from just 58 lifetime starts and earnings of $209,134.

A LITTLE MORE: Three drivers stood above the rest on the Friday night card. Andy Miller guided three to the winner’s circle while Dave Miller had a driving double. Also registering a double was Scott Zeron, whose winners were sent to the gate at odds of 80-1 and 12-1. Both of Zeron’s victories played a major role in giant 50-cent Pick-4 payoffs. The wager that ended in race nine returned $5,960.65, and in the 13^th, the payoff was $5,486.55. … The 20-cent Pick-6 went unhit as both of Zeron’s bombs scored during the sequence, setting up a guaranteed pool of $15,000 for Saturday night. Free past performances for the Pick-6, as well as the 20-cent Pick-5, are available at playmeadowlands.com. … All-source wagering totaled $2,488,170. … Racing resumes Saturday at 7:15 p.m.

BIG M SATURDAY PICK-6 POOL GUARANTEED AT $15,000

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – When Stellenbosch scored in the eighth race at The Meadowlands Friday night at odds of 80-1, many a 20-cent Pick-6 ticket hit the floor. When the sequence was complete, a 12-1 chance and a 16-1 shot were also among the winners, creating a $5,214.82 carryover.

As a result, there will be a $15,000 guarantee on the Pick-6 pool for Saturday night’s program.

Those who held tickets with four winners Friday cashed in for $50.66.

For those who want to get a head start on their handicapping, free past performances for the Saturday night Pick-6, which begins with the eighth race, will be available courtesy of the United States Trotting Association and TrackMaster at playmeadowlands.com.

In addition, free PPs will also be available for races one through five, which is the entire 20-cent Pick-5.

Luke Plano has sights on charmed enclosure

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo Harness

Luke Plano, who has his share of leading driver trophies on the mantle, is back for another Cal Expo stand and is looking forward to making his share of winner’s circle appearances.

To that end, he was posing for pictures after the first race on opening night and added another tally before the program had finished.

“I spent the summer at Hoosier Park, and that’s one of the toughest places to race right now,” Luke related. “That first quarter and last quarter are always fast and position is so important.”

In addition to competing in the sulky here, Plano has 10 performers under his care, including a quality pacer named Ponda’s Prospect, who was scheduled to suit up in Friday’s Open versus Allmyx’sliventexas. “He was racing in Chicago with Casey Leonard and hopefully he’ll fit well here.”

While racing in Indiana this summer, Luke would sometimes find himself driving against his 68-year-old father Rick, who was once a California mainstay and still holds three track records here.

“Dad’s doing well,” Luke noted. “Driving against him is nothing new, because I’ve been doing it ever since I started out.”

Bthe way, Luke has two course standards to his name, including the fastest trotting mile ever at Cal Expo when he guided Pridescrest to a 1:53 2/5 victory three years ago.

 

 Distaff Open, Bill Conlin eliminations highlighted

A $7,200 Filly and Mare Open Pace and two eliminations for the Bill Conlin Pace get the marquee treatment Saturday evening at Cal Expo.

Harness racing has returned to this oval with Friday and Saturday night action and there will be an 11-race program Saturday with first post set for 4:55 p.m.

Looking at the Filly/Mare Open, Velocity Mcsweets will certainly be one of the major players for the Jennifer Sabot shedrow.

The hard-hitting distaffer prepped for this contest last weekend, checking in second behind the classy Allmyx’sliventexas in a 1:56 3/5 qualifier which should have her ready to rock and roll with James Kennedy guiding from the outside post in the field of seven.

Looking to keep her from the winner’s circle Saturday are Marys Pretty Girl with Phil Knox; Bettor Lady, Mooney Svendsen; Brighten Your Life for Jacob Cutting; Royal Mistress, Kevin Anderson; Bertha Vanation, Nick Roland; and Delightfully Wild with Luke Plano in the sulky.

The main even will be decided as the sixth race on the card, while the Conlin eliminations occupy the fifth and eighth-race slots on the evening.

Sherwood is eyeing a curtain call in the first Conlin division after scoring as the chalk on opening night and leaves from the outside slot, while Bobs Time is likewise looking to keep his record perfect at the meet from the outside post in the other elimination.

Allmyx’sliventexas returns in Open Pace

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo Harness

An Open Pace and three eliminations for the Alan Horowitz Pace share the spotlight at Cal Expo on Friday night.

The trotters and pacers are now in action every Friday and Saturday evening for a 44-day session, with 11 races this Friday and a first post of 4:55 p.m. 

The Open brings out the popular Allmyx’sliventexas, who has gone many sensational miles over this layout in his career for his owner/breeders Wayne and Rod Knittel and trainer Bob Johnson. He will be handled by Nick Roland.

A 7-year-old son of Hi Hi Silverheel’s out of the Distinguishedbaron mare Annie Get Your Gun, he has a lifetime mark of 1:50 that was established two years ago over the seven-eighths Hoosier Park oval.

Allmyx’sliventexas got nice and tight for Friday’s assignment with a sharp qualifier last weekend with Roland handling the lines. He blasted right to the front, carved out all the fractions and then came home in style by nearly five lengths in 1:56 3/5.

Taking him on Friday are Dependlebury, Bngs Express, Ponda’s Prospect, Super Pac Hanover and Gorgeous For Real.

The Open goes as the fourth race on the card, while the Alan Horowitz eliminations occupy the first, eighth and tenth-race slots on the program. There is also an Open III Trot going as the third that features invading Mshindi for driver/trainer Tim Clevenger.

 

$63,764 Single 6 carryover, reduced takeout wagers featured

A $63,764 carryover in the Single 6 and a reduced 16% takeout rate on three of the most popular wagers on the card help spice up the action on Friday night.

The 20-cent early Pick 4 and 20-cent Pick 5 as usual will feature the lower takeout, and this season Cal Expo has added the reduced 16 percent takeout rate to the 20-cent Pick 4 as well.

Meanwhile, this weekend will find Alan Horowitz and Bill Conlin remembered with series events named in their honor.

Alan Horowitz was a major force in California harness racing over the last several decades and a member of the California Harness Horsemen's Association (CHHA) Hall of Fame who passed away in 2017 at age 72.

A $63,764 carryover in the Single 6 and a reduced 16% takeout rate on three of the most popular wagers on the card help spice up the action on Friday night.

The 20-cent early Pick 4 and 20-cent Pick 5 as usual will feature the lower takeout, and this season Cal Expo has added the reduced 16 percent takeout rate to the 20-cent Pick 4 as well.

Horowitz, who wore many hats in the business, started out as a partner with longtime friends Donald and Barbara Arnstine and Steve Desomer with a $25,000 claimer named Quaker Byrd. Quaker Byrd won his first race for the partners and Alan was hooked. Moving on, Alan would eventually become a board member and president of CHHA.

In 1994, Alan was instrumental in bringing harness racing back to Cal Expo in the form of Capitol Racing and was also its successful general manager. He was serving as the Executive Secretary of the CHHA at the time of his retirement in 2013 and continued to stay in touch with the sport that he loved so much.

Bill Conlin was the longtime sportswriter, editor and columnist for the Sacramento Bee who passed away in 1997 at the age of 84. With great wit, he covered sports (and more) for six decades, first at the Sacramento Union and then at the Sacramento Bee. He was a daily presence in the Bee’s sports section until his retirement in 1985

DUNN, TAKTER LOCK UP “OF THE YEAR” HONORS AT BIG M

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Fall Final Four/TVG Finals Night saw a handful of horses lock up divisional honors Saturday night at The Meadowlands.

It also saw the two most-coveted human awards cinched by a pair of the game’s biggest stars.

First up was Dexter Dunn, the 30-year-old native of New Zealand, who in his second year driving full time in America, left no doubt whom the United States Harness Writers Association’s Driver of the Year will be.

Of the eight stakes races on the card, Dunn emerged victorious four times, guiding Manchego (TVG Open Trot), Kissin In The Sand (TVG Mares Pace), Always A Miki (Governor’s Cup) and Bettor’s Wish (TVG Open Pace) to victory lane.

Add in the fact that Dunn won four Breeders Crown races and was the only driver in the sport with $10 million in earnings this year coming into the night, he better make room for a second DOTY trophy.

Takter scored three times on the card, as her trainees – Manchego, Kissin In The Sand and Always A Miki – were all handled by Dunn. She entered Saturday with earnings of $7.3 million from just 397 starts.

During 2020, in addition to the aforementioned power-packed threesome, Takter also had likely Horse of the Year winner Tall Dark Stranger – the Meadowlands Pace and North America Cup champion – in her barn.

It’s clear that Takter will raise the USHWA Trainer of the Year hardware.

A LITTLE MORE: Trainer Ron Burke and driver Dave Miller both reached an incredible milestone, as each pushed past the $250-million mark in lifetime earnings. Burke reached that lofty number when his Baklouva finished second in the Governor’s Cup Consolation while Miller became a quarter-billionaire after scoring with Blue Diamond Eyes in the Three Diamonds. Burke is harness racing’s leading all-time trainer in terms of earnings while Miller is second to John Campbell, who finished his career with $299 million in his bank account. … All-source handle on the 13-race card was $2,744,397. … Racing resumes Friday at 7:15 p.m.

PLUNGE BLUE CHIP WINS SURPRISE SWAN SONG AT BIG M

By Shades Demsky, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Three months have passed since When Dovescry and Plunge Blue Chip clashed at The Meadowlands in a Steele Memorial thriller. Saturday night (Nov. 21), both million-dollar mares returned to settle the score in the $140,000 TVG Mares Trot.

The 2019 Hambletonian Oaks winner When Dovescry, a 4-year-old mare by Muscle Hill-Cedar Dove, set a career best mark of 1:50.0 in the Steele this past August. The Brett Pelling trainee entered off a second-place finish in her local prep race last week. She left from the outside post (6) as the even-money favorite taking on five rivals, with her adversary, Plunge Blue Chip, drawing post position three.

Plunge Blue Chip, the daughter of Muscle Mass-Dunk The Donato, finished second to When Dovescry when the two last met locally in the Steele. Ake Svanstedt, who trains, drives and owns the 5-year-old mare in partnership with Blue Chip Bloodstock, Inc., got away well at the sound of the bell, sending Plunge Blue Chip to the early lead. Around the first turn, she relinquished the top to long-shot, Felicityshagwell S, who made the opening quarter in :27.1.

Sensing a slow pace, Svandstedt pulled the pocket and brushed to the point with Plunge Blue Chip as the field linked up with the backstretch. She progressed unhurried to the half-mile marker, catching a :29.1 breather, clipping the beam in :56.2. With plenty in reserve and no serious threats, Plunge Blue Chip showed the field her heels in the stretch, kicking clear to a 1½-length victory.

Pat Matters advanced from last to finish second from When Dovescry who disappointed, settling for third.

Plunge Blue Chip stopped the clock in 1:51.4, matching a stakes record jointly held by Hanalore Hanover and Emoticon Hanover. She paid $5.80 to win as the 9-5 second choice.

“The best position for her today was in the front, and she made it,” Svanstedt said. “She came home fast and felt good.”

On a night that celebrated the retirements of Manchego, Bettor's Wish and Kissin In the Sand, Svanstedt revealed in a surprise post-race announcement, that Plunge Blue Chip has made her final trip around the Big M oval.

According to Svanstedt, “[Plunge Blue Chip] sold as a broodmare and she is going to Anvil and Lace farm in Kentucky.”

With her win in the TVG Mares Trot, Plunge Blue Chip improved her record to 23 wins from 48 career starts. She retires with $1,576,251 in earnings.

ALWAYS A MIKI, BLUE DIAMOND EYES PLAY SPOILERS IN ‘FINAL FOUR’

By Ray Cotolo, for the Meadowlands Racetrack

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Supporters of the betting favorites found themselves empty handed following the Fall Final Four pacing events on Saturday (Nov. 21) at the Meadowlands.

Breeders Crown champ Summa Cum Laude grew leg weary off quick fractions while pocket-sitter Always A Miki vaulted with fresh legs to a 1:50.2 victory in the $371,900 Governor’s Cup—sponsored by Walnridge Farm & Heritage Hill Farm.

Captain Sleaze, at odds of 90-1, kicked to the front and held a brief lead by a :26.3 opening quarter as Always A Miki pulled wide from the pocket with Summa Cum Laude on his back. Always A Miki cleared command to the backstretch before yielding to Summa Cum Laude. Then Abuckabett Hanover tipped first over from fourth tracked by his stablemate, Metro Pace winner Exploit, approaching a :54.3 half.

Abuckabett Hanover ranged toward the pacesetter nearing three-quarters in 1:21.4, but his advance stalled nearing the straightaway and forced Exploit to launch three wide. Summa Cum Laude clung to the lead into the stretch as a lane opened for Always A Miki to vacate pocket, and the Always B Miki-Beach Gal colt lunged to a late lead over an extended Exploit and held firm to a half-length victory. Summa Cum Laude held third with Captain Fancy closing for fourth.

“He’s a very small horse, there’s not much too him—but he’s shown all year [that] he’s a true competitor,” driver Dexter Dunn said after the race. “We re-moved there at the quarter, then Yannick [Gingras and Summa Cum Laude] came and it worked out perfect. The three-quarters was pretty fast, and he was tagged on Yannick’s helmet the whole trip. I knew he had something left if I could get him clear.”

Owned by Christina Takter, Goran Anderberg, Herb Liverman and Rojan Stables, Always A Miki collected his fifth victory from 13 starts, earning $342,418. Nancy Takter trains the $16.00 winner.

Blue Diamond Eyes culled the flames of red-hot Breeders Crown champ Fire Start Hanover and emerged victorious in the $323,600 Three Diamonds Final—sponsored by Daniel Baer & South Mountain Stables.

Driver David Miller had Blue Diamond Eyes revved early, powering for the front past a :27.3 first quarter to pocket Notorious Pink into the backstretch. Fire Start Hanover raced fourth into the backstretch and gradually edged off the pylons until committing first over by a :56 half. Once taken outside, Fire Start Hanover rolled towards Blue Diamond Eyes to battle the leader by three-quarters in 1:23.3.

However, the far-turn blitz paid a toll on Fire Start Hanover as she retreated through the field with shortening strides. Blue Diamond Eyes meanwhile blazed to the finish while prompted by pocket-popping Notorious Pink, who settled for second by one-and-a-half lengths in the 1:51.1 mile. Thebeachiscalling wove through traffic for third with Lindy At The Beach taking fourth.

“Really where she turned her whole year around was in the Kentucky Sires Stakes,” trainer Ron Burke said after the race. “She went down, re-found herself, then she came back and won the final. Then even in the Breeders Crown, we couldn’t get her in the right spots. Last week [David Miller] said she’s ready for a big effort and he said we’ll give it to her this week. Like, we’re just going to put her on the front and make them come beat her. He was very right—I knew when they came into the last turn [that] they’d have to pace hard to get around her, because she’ll fight when she gets the lead.”

Winning her fifth race from 13 starts, Blue Diamond Eyes has banked $554,617 for owners Thomas & Scott Dillon. The filly by Captaintreacherous-Aria Hanover returned $11.40 to win.

An $81,000 consolation was contested earlier on the card for the Governor’s Cup. Chris Ryder trainee Beachhead bolted down the center of the track off swift fractions of :26.2, :54.3 and 1:22.4 to win by three-quarter lengths in 1:51.2 over Baklouva, who rallied from last for second. David Miller drove the $13.40 winner for owners Steve Heimbecker and Mac Nichol.

ANOKA HANOVER, BEE FOREVER SCORE IN ‘FINAL FOUR’ TROTS

By Frank Cotolo for The Meadowlands

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – On Nov. 21, a filly defended her crown while a gelding of regal blood scored himself high honors in Fall Final Four action at the Meadowlands.

Anoka Hanover won the $451,800 Goldsmith Maid for freshman trotting fillies—sponsored by Hunterton Farms. Todd McCarthy drove the Noel Daley-trained filly to victory in 1:53.2. The Kindergarten Classic champion scored her seventh-straight win of the season and her 10^th win in 14 starts.

Beautiful Game was rushed to the front entering the first turn but settled for the pocket to a :28.1 opening quarter as Insta Glam cruised to the lead. Race-favorite Anoka Hanover, from the pylon post, protected position to race third, and stayed put at the pegs while Insta Glam sped to a :55.4 half. But, to the far turn and with the Breeders Crown champ Lady Chaos ranging uncovered, McCarthy moved his charge for the leader.

Insta Glam began to feel the pressure of Anoka Hanover’s strong strides past three-quarters in 1:23.3 while Lady Chaos spun her wheels and gapped cover. Into the stretch, Anoka Hanover drew away from the field to score easily by two-and-a-quarter lengths. Soaring up the inside came Flawless Country, who finished second, passing Beautiful Game, third, and Wet My Whistle, fourth.

Noel Daley co-owns the daughter of Donato Hanover—Aunt Mel along with LA Express Stable LLC and Caviart Farms.

“She’s been phenomenal,” Todd McCarthy said after the race. “Noel’s done an unbelievable job managing her. The success we’ve had with her has been a dream come true for me. She’s been getting better and better all the time. I love her attitude; she wants to do the job every time.”

Buck Chaffee of Caviart Farms said none of the connections thought Anoka Hanover was as classy as she raced this season. “She didn’t look great as a baby. We didn’t know she was good until she started racing,” he said. “As owners we’re happy. This is one of those pleasant surprises.”

As the public’s choice, Anoka Hanover paid $2.80 to win. She increased her earnings to $599,053.

Bee Forever, with Victor Kirby at the reins, pulled off an upset in the $398,650 Valley Victory for freshman trotting colts and geldings—sponsored by Kentuckiana Farms—closing with confidence down the stretch to win in 1:54.

Bee Forever was in no rush to leave, settling in ninth as Dees Red Delicous, race-favorite On A Streak, and Incommunicado stepped quickly off the gate. Incommunicado grabbed the top spot, but gave way past a :27.4 first quarter as Dees Red Delicous strode to the front. On A Streak, positioned fourth, then made his move for the lead, cruising by Dees Red Delicous through a :55.4 half before bearing a first-over charge from Zenith Stride to the far turn. Zenith Stride kept the pressure on the leader to three-quarters in 1:25.1, but grew leg weary off the turn.

Storming three-wide from near last, Bee Forever found a clear path to aim at the finish line, and full of trot, Kirby did not have to urge the son of Muscle Hill—Bee A Magician to glide safely to victory by a neck. On A Streak held for second and Delayed Hanover followed to get third.

Richard “Nifty” Norman trains Bee Forever, who won his second race in nine starts.

“The first time I drove Bee Forever, Nifty told me the colt can trot really fast but he’s green and needs to be taught. Every week he got better.” Kirby said in Bee Forever’s Kindergarten Final performance two weeks ago, “if I shake free, he wins, so I knew if he gets open space it would work out.”

Bee Forever has now earned $240,986 at two and Kirby feels there’s a lot more to come at three. “You’re going to hear from him next year,” he said.

Bee Forever paid $30.60 to win.

HL REVADON DOMINANT IN BIG M FEATURE

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – After failing in consecutive starts as the favorite, HL Revadon had probably lost a few fans heading into Friday night’s $20,000 high-end conditioned trot, the feature race at The Meadowlands.

But those chalk players who went to the well just one more time got to pay for the drinks at the race's end.

The super-consistent HL Revadon, who had hit the board in five straight starts heading into the non-winners of six event, was handled differently by driver Mark MacDonald than he was a week ago, when he went directly to the lead before ending up third.

This time around, MacDonald had his horse away in no particular hurry, sitting third in the early stages before using a quick burst of speed to claim the lead while parked at the half in a tepid :57.3.

From there, it was no problem for the 4-year-old gelded son of Andover Hall-D Liteful Hanover, who trotted clear of the pocket-sitting I Got The Looks by 2½ lengths at the head of the stretch before reporting home a 2¼-length winner in 1:53.2. Winnerup rallied along the inside to get second. I Got The Looks was third.

Trained by Harry Landy and owned by Share A Horse Inc., HL Revadon returned $6.20 to win as the 2-1 public choice. He’s now won seven of 32 lifetime starts and earned $182,349.

DUNN DEAL: Driver Dexter Dunn continues to impress as the 30-year-old native of New Zealand, the only driver in the sport this year with $10 million in earnings, and who won four Breeders Crown events several weeks ago at Harrah’s Hoosier Park, tightened his stranglehold on a second straight Driver of the Year trophy by winning three times on the Friday night program.

A LITTLE MORE: Action on the Big M’s two 50-cent Pick-4 wagers continued strong as a total of $137,715 was put in play on the bets. … Favorites have been on a roll of late at the track, as after six public choices clicked on Friday a total of 29 winning public choices have scored over the last 64 races (45 percent). … All-source wagering totaled $2,334,662. … The 20-cent Pick-6 went unhit, creating a $5,088 carryover. There will be a guaranteed pool of $15,000 for the next program. … Racing resumes Saturday night at 7:15 p.m. as eight stakes races for purses totaling $2.495 million will be up for grabs on Fall Final Four/TVG Finals Night.

Carryovers, reduced takeout wagers Spice Cal Expo opening-night action

 

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo Harness

Players will have something immediate to shoot at when Cal Expo kicks off their meeting Saturday, with a $9,819 carryover in the Hi Five and a $61,678 carryover in the Single 6.

Cal Expo has also added a third low-takeout wager to their menu from last season.

In addition to the reduced 16 percent takeout rates on the 20-cent Pick 4 and early 20-cent Pick 5, the 20-cent Late Pick 5 will now also feature that value 16 percent takeout rate.

The Pick 4 also comes with a $25,000-guaranteed gross pool.

James Kennedy will be back to defend his driving title from the previous stand, where he edged out Mooney Svendsen with 101 trips to the charmed enclosure, giving him a half-dozen more than veteran Svendsen.

Luke Plano has several driving titles to his credit and also figures to make his share of winner circle appearances this season.

 In the training ranks, the Kathie Plested barn ran away with the crown at the last meet with Gordie Graham, Bob Johnson and Leon Smith also getting plenty of snapshots.

 Curtain goes up on Cal Expo harness meet  

 The trotters and pacers return to Cal Expo Saturday night under the Watch and Wager LLC banner with a 12-race card that finds a pair of $5,000 Open III contests commanding the spotlight.

 Racing will be conducted on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the 44-day session and with the implementation of the 10 p.m. California curfew beginning Saturday, first post will now be 4:35 p.m. 

The Open III event for pacing fillies and mares looks like a good spot for the hard-knocking disaffer Delightfully Wild, who has gone a number of big races over this course in her career.

Delightfully Wild is a 7-year-old daughter of Bettor’s Delight who carries the banner of Richard Morita and David Yamada and sports a 1:51 1/5 career standard that was established two years ago at Pocono Downs.She has plenty of back class in her corner.

 

“YANKEE JOE” LEE WINS NAADA TROT AT MONTICELLO WITH COCO HALL

by John Manzi for the North American Amateur Drivers Association

Monticello, NY--- When driver Alan Schwartz realized that the field in the $5000 NAADA Trot at Monticello Raceway on Thursday afternoon (Nov. 19) was narrowed to just six starters by post time his spirits rose since he had the favorite, Ladys Big Stormont, who'd start from the far outside.

But all didn't go as expected. His trotter was rough behind the gate and when the starter said go Ladys Big Stormont was sluggish leaving, a far cry from the horse's usual habits.

Joe Lee hustled Coco Hall to the lead from the two-hole and then grabbed leather to allow Ladys Big Stormont to take command in the soft 30- second first panel.

With Schwartz on the lead the eventual winner Coco Hall was more than content to sit the pocket behind the favorite.

“I was surprised that the first quarter was so soft but I was plenty happy to be in the two-hole ,” Lee said later. “I didn't know at the time that Alan's horse wasn't himself today but I was sure going to enjoy a covered journey near all the action anyway.”

Ladys Big Stormont got the short field by the half in 1:01.2 and then began to open some daylight on the trailers.

At the three quarters it was still the race favorite showing the way with Coco Hall and driver Joe Lee waiting patiently until the top of the lane so he could angle his charge down along the pylons and have a clear shot at the wire.

“When my horse saw daylight at the top of the stretch he grabbed the bit and put it in another gear and then he trotted alongside the leader and finished him off in the final strides,” Lee explained.

Garnet, who started from the pole position finished third, two lengths behind the winner, with the ever- improving Christopher Doherty (Duff's grandson) at the lines.

Coco Hall, a 6-year Amigo Hall mare, is owned by Brenda Messenger and Dr. Scott Woogen and trained by Gary Messenger.

He returned a $7.00 win payoff. to his backers. 

BIG M LOOKS TO RAISE HANDLE BAR AGAIN

Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – One week after setting new Fall Meet handle marks for a single card and a weekend, The Meadowlands is in position to better both bests again as the upcoming pair of race cards (Nov. 20-21) feature plenty of competitive racing, with Saturday night’s Fall Final Four/TVG Finals Night standing dead center in the spotlight.

The stakes-race eight pack – the third biggest “event” program of the Big M calendar year after Hambletonian Day and Meadowlands Pace Night – has purses that total $2,495,950, and figures to create a big night at the windows.

Last week (Nov. 13-14) saw Fall Meet highs of $5,299,941 bet over the course of the two race cards with a single-night best of $2,823,647 wagered on Saturday. In the end, the track had its first $5 million weekend since Sept. 18-19.

The 20-cent Pick-6 continues to be a wager that creates big interest and big pools. A two-day carryover of just $28,142 led to a total pool of $104,695 on Saturday night, and those sharp enough to have all six winners walked away with $5,642.

“All of us at The Meadowlands are pleased with the way things have gone with the Pick-6,” said track Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Jason Settlemoir. “There is an awful lot of excitement when there are carryovers in the wager, and a lot of value for the player. For instance, last week, only the $76,553 in “new money” was subject to the low 15 percent takeout. All of the $28,142 carryover was subject to no takeout at all.”

Other eyebrow-raising Saturday night payoffs included the 20-cent Pick-5 ($1,599), 20-cent Survivor Pick-7 ($2,527 for six-of-seven) and the 10-cent Pentafecta ($1,166).

Friday night was for 50-cent Pick-4 players as over $140,000 in action was taken on the wagers. The Early Pick returned $4,186 while the Late Pick paid $2,362.

As for hot horsemen, Dexter Dunn (five winners) led the driver’s colony while Kelvin Harrison (three) topped the trainer’s list.

FREE PPs: For free past performances of Meadowlands races, courtesy of the United States Trotting Association and TrackMaster, go to playmeadowlands.com.

Races one through five will be available for Friday’s program while Saturday’s entire Fall Final Four/TVG Finals card will be offered.

TWEET THE TEAM: Stay in touch on Twitter with the Big M’s Dave Brower (@eedoogie), Dave Little (@DaveLittleBigM), Ken Warkentin (@kenvoiceover), Andrew Demsky (@shadesonracing) and Jessica Otten (@JessicaOtten1). Check in everyday for Meadowlands news and updates at those handles, as well as @TheMeadowlands and #playbigm.

CHECK OUT THE PICKS: For those who need to get a leg up on the action, go to playmeadowlands.com to see track oddsmaker and analyst Brower’s selections and commentary. Click on this link to check out Friday’s card: http://playmeadowlands.com/RaceReviews.aspx?racedt=11/20/2020.

Additionally, track announcer Warkentin’s blog is available on the site and offers his picks and analysis.

On race nights, access picks and plays from the Big M TV team at #playbigm or at @TheMeadowlands.

CHECK OUT THE SHOW: As always look for the “Racing from The Meadowlands” live in-house simulcast show every Friday and Saturday night. The pre-game show begins at 6:42 p.m. First race is at 7:15 p.m.

It’ll be the “Dave & Dave” show on both Friday and Saturday as Brower and Little will be the on-camera presence all weekend long, with additional coverage in the form of winner’s circle interviews and retirement ceremonies for some of the game’s biggest equine stars on Saturday night.

If you can’t make it out to the track, you can watch and wager on all the action at home. Go to rtn.tv or your favorite ADW platform to catch every race live.

GET YOUR FOOTBALL FIX: The National Football League season rolls on with games this Thursday, Sunday and Monday, and you can wager on all of the action in the Big M’s FanDuel Sportsbook.

Thursday’s (Nov. 19) NFL matchup has the Kyler Murray-led Arizona Cardinals, fresh off a “Hail Mary” win over the Buffalo Bills, traveling to Seattle to take on Russell Wilson and the Seahawks. Seattle is a 3-point favorite (-114). For those who prefer money lines, the Seahawks are -164 to win the game, regardless of by how much.

One can wager on a full slate of Saturday college football games as well. There are also other sports available to bet on in the book from 10 a.m. – midnight Sunday through Friday and from 10 a.m. – 2 a.m. on Saturday.

WESTERN JOE BACK IN BIG M WINNER’S CIRCLE

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Longtime fan favorite Western Joe worked his way into a live flow and got up after a thrilling stretch duel with Ana Afreet N to win the Saturday night feature at The Meadowlands, the $28,000 Preferred Handicap for pacers.

It was anything but easy for the 6-year-old gelded son of Western Ideal-Ante Fay, who departed from post 10 in a strong field for trainer Chris Choate. Filibuster Hanover, with his gaudy lifetime bankroll of $1.8 million, was sent to the gate as the 6-5 public choice and after driver Yannick Gingras asked for a quick burst of speed, cleared the top before the half, which was timed in :54.1.

Western Joe, winless in his last five Meadowlands starts, was now working his way into the outer flow, following fourth-over right behind the red-hot Ana Afreet N, who was searching for his fourth win in five starts.

At the head of the stretch, the field bunched up as Filibuster Hanover weakened. Ana Afreet A and Western Joe battled throughout the final eighth of a mile on the far outside, and at the wire, it was Western Joe, the winner of the 2018 Sam McKee Memorial, scoring his 28^th win from 91 lifetime starts by a nose. The time for the mile was 1:49.4, and after being dismissed at odds of 10-1, ‘Joe’ paid $22.60 to win. Wes Delight finished third. Filibuster Hanover was eighth.

Western Joe, who now sports career earnings of $687,208 for owners Anthony Ruggeri and Richard Tosies, is heading for the Nov. 21 TVG Open Pace at The Big M.

BIG NIGHT AT THE WINDOWS: Betting was solid throughout the 13-race program, as a Fall Meet high of $2,823,647 was pushed through the windows.

The 20-cent Pick-6, with a $28,142 carryover serving as the catalyst, saw a total pool of $104,695. Those with winning tickets cashed in for $5,642.38 after seeing a sequence where the winner’s odds were 4-5, 5-1, 10-1, 6-5, 5-2 and 5-1.

Four races on the card saw action that exceeded $250,000, while betting was vigorous on the two Pick-4s, as the Early Pick took in $75,400 while the Late Pick saw $70,574 in action.

FINAL FOUR PREPS: Always A Miki (Always B Miki-Beach Gal) readied himself for next week’s Governor’s Cup by taking a 2-year-old colt and gelding pace in 1:52.3 for driver Dexter Dunn and trainer Nancy Takter as the 6-5 favorite, ending a personal seven-race losing streak in winning for fourth time from 12 starts.

Three Diamonds hopeful Notorious Pink sat a pocket trip behind JK Alwaysbalady before getting up at the wire in 1:53 in a 2-year-old filly pace as the 8-5 public choice. Driven by Tim Tetrick and trained by Tony Alagna, the daughter of Captaintreacherous-She’s A Hot Mess upped her lifetime stats to five wins in 12 tries.

A LITTLE MORE: The final stakes-laden card of the year takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 when $2.8 million in purses will be up for grabs on Fall Final Four/TVG Finals Night. … Todd McCarthy, Andy McCarthy, Dunn and George Napolitano Jr. accounted for eight of the winners on the card by winning two races apiece. … Racing resumes Friday at 7:15 p.m.

‘LINDY’ GREAT IN BIG M FEATURE

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Even though he’d earned more than $339,000 from just 14 starts this year, Lindy The Great was winless heading into Friday night’s high-end conditioned trotting feature at The Meadowlands.

“I was petting him this morning,” said trainer Julie Miller, “and I said to him ‘all the talk is about you being an oh-fer. Let’s change that’.”

After going a perfect second-over trip, Lindy The Great surged past 3-2 favorite When Dovescry nearing the wire to set the 6-year-old son of Crazed-Highscore Kemp up perfectly for the $350,000 TVG Open Trot at The Big M, which takes place Nov. 21.

When Dovescry was away from the gate quickly from post nine in the nine-horse field, and after being forced three-wide into the first turn, made the lead just after the quarter. Driver Dave Miller was able to rate the second fraction in :28.3 as the pair hit the half in :56.1.

Mission Accepted came with a burst of speed first-over to go after the leader, which provided a live tow for Lindy The Great past three-quarters and around the far turn. LTG was tipped off his cover mid-stretch by Andy Miller and got past When Dovescry by 1¼ lengths at the finish in 1:52.1 after coming home in :26.1. Mission Accepted finished a determined third.

“When you are racing against the best of the best all year long it’s tough,” said the trainer, “but we were hoping to get the job done sooner or later.”

Lindy The Great, who returned $9.20 as the third choice in the wagering, now has 15 wins from 62 career starts. With the victory, he became harness racing’s newest millionaire with earnings of $1,000,079 for owners Andy Miller Stable and Team Lindy The Great.

“This was our prep for the TVG,” said Julie, “and now we have a taste of what it is to get a win. Next week, hopefully we get some racing luck. The biggest thing about him is his personality. He’s just a likeable horse. You are in a happy place when you are around him. I’m very fortunate to have him. We are very happy with him.”

BIG BUCKS BROWER: Dave Brower has made a career of reporting what’s going on at The Meadowlands, but for much of Friday night, he was the story, as the track’s morning-line oddsmaker, program analyst and TV host had himself quite a night at the races.

The author of “Harnessing Winners: The Complete Guide To Handicapping Harness Races” correctly selected the first seven races on the card until his Alkippe finished second in the eighth race to 90-1 longshot Milady Denver A.

When the 13-race card had concluded, Brower had seven on top, with four of his selections finishing second and one third. His lone pick to finish off-the-board came in the 13^th and final race of the night.

A LITTLE MORE: Prepping for the TVG Mares, Caviart Ally scored early on the program in 1:50 in a high-end conditioned pace for fillies and mares. … Dexter Dunn led the driver colony with three winners. … The 20-cent Pick-6 went unhit, creating a $28,142 carryover for Saturday night. Big M management has put a guarantee of $60,000 on the pool, which begins in race eight. Free past performances for the wager are available at playmeadowlands.com. Those who had five out of six cashed in for $1,778.16. … All-source handle totaled $2,475,294. … Racing resumes Saturday at 7:15 p.m.

BIG M PICK-6 HAS $60K GUARANTEE SATURDAY NIGHT

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Friday the 13^th might be unlucky for some, but after the 20-cent Pick-6 failed to produce a winner at The Meadowlands, Saturday the 14^th could prove very lucky for others.

When driver Leon Bailey guided Milady Denver A to victory lane at odds of 90-1 in the eighth race Friday night at The Big M, many a Pick-6 ticket went dead. In the end, the wager went unhit, creating a carryover of $28,142.45, leading management to guarantee the pool at $60,000 for Saturday night.

Those who had tickets with five winners Friday did well for themselves, cashing in for $1,778.16.

Saturday evening’s Pick-6 will kick off in the eighth race. Free past performances are available by going to this link: https://www.trackmaster.com/freeContent/usta/freeContentFiles/hpl/mxx1114x.pdf

Cal Expo Qualifiers Sunday;

 Meet opens November 21

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo Harness

Qualifiers are set for noon Sunday at Cal Expo in advance of the opening night of the 2020-21 meeting that gets underway on Saturday, November 21.

The trotters and pacers will be in action on Friday and Saturday evenings through April 24 with a first post of 6:10 p.m , and opening night will feature a $9,814 carryover in the Hi Five and a $61,650 carryover in the Single 6.

In addition to the existing reduced 16-percent takeout rates on the 20-cent Pick 4 and early 20-cent Pick 5, the 20-cent Late Pick 5 will now also feature that value 16-percent takeout rate.

 

GOBS OF GUARANTEED GREEN UP FOR GRABS AT BIG M

Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – There will no doubt be plenty of money put in play over the course of the upcoming weekend (Nov. 13-14) at The Meadowlands as the track’s popular multi-leg wagers will offer a total of $300,000 in guaranteed pools.

On Friday night, the 20-cent Pick-6 – which begins in the eighth race – has a guaranteed pool of $20,000. Big M management saw fit to make the monetary assurance in the aftermath of last Saturday (Nov. 7) when the wager went unhit, creating a carryover of $8,031.

Last Friday (Nov. 6), a Pick-6 carryover led to a total pot of over $51,000, and those sharp enough to have tickets bearing all six winners walked away with $23,020.

The other $280,000 in assured funds will come from the 20-cent Pick-5 and 50-cent Pick-4. The Pick-5 – which begins in the first race – will be offering $50,000 guaranteed pools on both Friday and Saturday, while the 50-cent Pick-4s will offer $50,000 on both race sixes and $40,000 more on each race 10 during the course of the weekend.

All of those wagers offer a low 15 percent takeout, which is also true of the 20-cent Survivor Pick-7 – which starts on the third race – as well as the 10-cent Pentafecta, which is offered on the 13^th and final race of the night.

Other payouts worth mentioning from last week include Friday night’s Pick-4 ($1,120), Survivor ($3,118) and Pentafecta ($1,702), while Saturday’s big payoffs came in the Pick-4 ($1,912) and Pentafecta ($7,786).

LAST WEEK: A pair of Breeders Crown champions strutted their stuff in the Kindergarten Classic Finals for 2-year-olds last Saturday. Fire Start Hanover ran her seasonal stats to eight wins from 12 starts after taking the filly pace while Summa Cum Laude, fresh off his dead heat in the Crown with the unbeaten Perfect Sting, overcame post 10 to win the colt and gelding pace.

Anoka Hanover upped her winning streak to six on the way to victory lane in the filly trot while 6-1 shot Dee’s Red Delicious became the only winner to not go off as the public choice in the colt and gelding trot.

Big M fans can now look forward to the third biggest program of the calendar year – after Hambletonian Day and Meadowlands Pace Night – when Fall Final Four/TVG Finals Night takes place on Nov. 21, with many Kindergarten and Breeders Crown participants expected to be on hand.

That evening, 2-year-olds will be in the spotlight as the Governor’s Cup (colt pace), Three Diamonds (filly pace), Valley Victory (colt trot) and Goldsmith Maid (filly trot) makeup the Fall Final Four, with total purses of about $1.8 million.

In addition, year-end divisional honors will be on the line in the four TVG Finals, which are the Mares Trot, Open Trot, Mares Pace and Open Pace, a fabulous foursome which will see just over $1 million get doled out.

THE BIG THREE: George Napolitano Jr. and Todd McCarthy kept on rolling, as each won four times last weekend to lead the driver colony.

With many of the Big M regulars absent in recent weeks driving on the Grand Circuit, Simon Allard, Napolitano and McCarthy have combined to win 36 of the last 77 races contested at the mile oval. Allard and McCarthy are currently leading the standings with 26 wins apiece, “Georgie Nap” is right behind them with 22.

FREE PPs: For free past performances of Meadowlands races, courtesy of the United States Trotting Association and TrackMaster, go to playmeadowlands.com, where one can access races one through five – the entire 20-cent Pick-5 – on both the Friday and Saturday night cards. In addition, because of the $20,000 guarantee, Friday’s Pick-6 (races eight through 13) will also be available.

TWEET THE TEAM: Stay in touch on Twitter with the Big M’s Dave Brower (@eedoogie), Dave Little (@DaveLittleBigM), Ken Warkentin (@kenvoiceover), Andrew Demsky (@shadesonracing) and Jessica Otten (@JessicaOtten1). Check in everyday for Meadowlands news and updates at those handles, as well as @TheMeadowlands and #playbigm.

CHECK OUT THE PICKS: For those who need to get a leg up on the action, go to playmeadowlands.com to see track oddsmaker and analyst Brower’s selections and commentary. Click on this link to check out Friday’s card: http://playmeadowlands.com/RaceReviews.aspx?racedt=11/13/2020.

Additionally, track announcer Warkentin’s blog is available on the site and offers his picks and analysis.

On race nights, access picks and plays from the Big M TV team at #playbigm or at @TheMeadowlands.

CHECK OUT THE SHOW: As always look for the “Racing from The Meadowlands” live in-house simulcast show every Friday and Saturday night. The pre-game show begins at 6:42 p.m. First race is at 7:15 p.m.

Otten will join Brower on the Sam McKee Memorial broadcast set Friday. The usual team of Brower and Little will be on camera Saturday.

If you want to watch all the action at home, go to rtn.tv or your favorite ADW platform to catch every race live.

FORE! The 2020 Masters at Augusta National begins Thursday (Nov. 12), and if wagering on golf is your thing, head to the Big M’s FanDuel Sportsbook where all kinds of straight wagers and prop bets will be offered on professional golf’s “Super Bowl”.

You can also watch and wager on all the National Football League and college football action, as well as other sports, when the book is open for business from 10 a.m. – midnight Sunday through Friday and from 10 a.m. – 2 a.m. on Saturday.

Trotters Open for Dining at the Meadowlands Racetrack

East Rutherford, NJ - For live racing on Friday and Saturday nights, Trotters is open and has a $29.95 pre fixe menu featuring a selection of salads, entrees and desserts. 

This Friday’s menu features a traditional Greek salad, Szechuan chicken and shrimp stir fry, roasted Vermont ham and NY strip steak.

Saturday’s menu includes a traditional Caesar salad, sole Oreganata, grilled chicken with Shiitake mushrooms and BBQ flank steak.

Trotters is open to all guests, both members and non-members. Reservations are required and dining must be prepaid.  Reservations can be made by calling 201-The-BigM (201-843-2446)

The complete menus can be viewed at https://www.playmeadowlands.events/trotters

Victory Lounge and the outdoor Pavilion are also open for food and beverage service for both live racing and sports.  Diners can enjoy a variety of appetizers including wings, loaded fries and guacamole with chips.  BBQ favorites including brisket, ribs, pulled pork and burgers are also available.

Reservations must be made by emailing Victoryreservations@arkrestaurants.com or calling 201-842-5102.

SUMMA CUM LAUDE, FIRE START HANOVER SCORE IN KINDERGARTEN PACING CLASSICS AT BIG M

By Frank Cotolo for The Meadowlands Racetrack

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – On Nov. 7, a week after Summa Cum Laude and Perfect Sting recorded the first dead-heat Breeders Crown win, Yannick Gingras steered him to a 1:50.2 win in the $204,050 Kindergarten Classic.  Soaring to first off the gate was Shakespeare, followed by Captain Sleeze, with the Ron Burke-trained Summa Cum Laude in fourth behind Ilderton AM after leaving from the 10 hole. Shakespeare cut the first quarter in :26.4.

Summa Cum Laude took to the outside and smoothly passed Shakespeare. With the lead, he was entirely in charge pacing to a 1:23.3 three-quarters. Simon Says Hanover came first over to make his bid but Shakespeare was still strong and still after the leader, while Always B Sweet came into the stretch picture.

Without urging, Gingras drove Summa Cum Laude across the wire to a lifetime- best-equaling score by one-and-a-quarter lengths.

“I just tried to get him in play,” Gingras said after the race. “I wasn’t going to take back to last, so I was able to get away fourth and from there I saw what the pace was going to be, though it didn’t matter, because he can race any which what way. I had a ton of pace still when finishing.”

Shakespeare held on for second, Captain Sleeze got third and Always B Sweet closed late to get fourth.

Summa Cum Laude is by Somebeachsomewhere—Western Graduate. Burke Racing Stable and P. Collura, J. and T Silva-Purnel and Libby own the colt who took his fifth win in 14 starts and accrued $445,425 in earnings.

As the favorite, Summa Cum Laude paid $4.00 to win.

Fresh from her Breeders Crown 1:50.4 victory at Harrah’s Hoosier Park, Fire Start Hanover and driver Dexter Dunn swarmed over her competition to win the $151,030 Kinergarten Classic for freshmen pacing fillies.

Fire Start Hanover, opening the 1-9 favorite, was in no rush leaving the gate, and settled into fourth as High Minded and Lindy At The Beach rushed from the outside and Three Way Split held onto his rail position.

As the first quarter clocked in :26.3, High Minded gave up the lead to Classicist, who could not keep the top before the :55.2 half when Dunn guided Fire Start Hanover to the outside. With Off The Record at his back, Fire Start Hanover became the leader and never looked back.

The “Nifty” Norman-trained filly glided into the stretch in total command, with Off The Record in futile pursuit, crossing the wire one-and-a-quarter lengths in front in a 1:51.1 mile. Off The Record was second and Classicist shifted into third over High Minded, fourth.

Dunn said, “She bounced back okay. It’s only a week since she raced in the Breeders Crown and though that was a tough mile she did it pretty easily.” In the Kindergarten, he said, “The way she was traveling to three-quarters I was not worried because she was full of pace. She finished the mile with the ear plugs still in. She’s strong.”

Fire Start Hanover is a daughter of Somebeachsomewhere, out of Fit To Frame. Pinske Stables, David K. Hoese and Lawrence M. Means own the filly who collected her eighth win in a dozen starts and has earned $593,101. He paid $2.40 to win.

Diamond Creek Farm sponsored each division of the Kindergarten Classics.

MAKING THE GRADE: Wagering got off to a good start on the 13-race program as over $341,000 was pushed through the windows on the opener, leading to an all-source total of $2,561,614. … Todd McCarthy led the driver’s colony with three winners, including 45-1 long shot S McKee in the finale, leading to a 10-cent Pentafecta payoff of $7,786.22. … The 20-cent Pick-6 went unhit, which means a carryover of $8,085 will be up for grabs on the next program. Those with tickets bearing five winners cashed in for $245.02. … George Napolitano Jr., Corey Callahan and Dexter Dunn all had driving doubles. … Expect to see a big handful of the horses who raced in the Kindergartens to be on hand Saturday, Nov. 21 on Fall Final Four/TVG Finals Night, when approximately $2.8 million in purse money will be on the table. … Racing resumes Friday at 7:15 p.m.

DEE’S RED DELICIOUS IN TIME, ANOKA HANOVER NABS KINDERGARTEN TROT

 

By Ray Cotolo, for the Meadowlands Racetrack

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Leading a tightening bunch after leader Jack Fire, Dee’s Red Delicious emerged victorious in the $207,570 Kindergarten Classic for two-year-old trotting colts and geldings on Saturday (Nov. 6) at the Meadowlands Racetrack.

Driver Corey Callahan floated Dee’s Red Delicious into fourth to a :28 first quarter as 3-5 favorite Lindsymusclemania broke into a gallop entering the backstretch. Straightening to the backside, Jack Fire circled to the top out of third and posted a :57.4 half while Callahan gave Dee’s Red Delicious his cue.

Into the far turn Dee’s Red Delicious loomed closer with Peter Haughton champ Zenith Stride in tow to three-quarters in 1:26.2. Jack Fire clung to command as the charge closed in, with Zenith Stride angling three wide, Royson’s Punch trying to squeak up the pylons and Bee Forever lodged between horses. But Dee’s Red Delicious kept the compact late threats to his back and slid to a three-quarter length victory over Jack Fire. Bee Forever finished third in the 1:54.3 mile while Zenith Stride took fourth.

“He’s really been kind of the perfect horse,” trainer Bruce Saunders said of Dee’s Red Delicious, whose poised to compete in the Valley Victory on Nov. 21. “When he got beat it wasn’t his fault, it was my fault and maybe Corey’s fault. Last week we were stunned that he was so flat—he had some respiratory issues that fortunately we were able to get cleared up.”

Owned by Joseph Martinelli Sr., Dee’s Red Delicious scored his sixth win from 12 starts, banking $460,861. The Credit Winner-Apple Plush gelding paid $15.40 to win.

While Insta Glam fast-stepped her way through the early portions of the mile, Anoka Hanover readied her attack, and the 4-5 choice successfully reeled in the tiring pacesetter for driver Todd McCarthy to win the $252,340 Kindergarten Classic for two-year-old trotting fillies.

McCarthy landed Anoka Hanover in fifth while Insta Glam ground to the lead by a :27.2 opening quarter. Insta Glam continued on an uncontested lead to a :55.4 half as Anoka Hanover edged wide off the pylons with Mazzarati on her back.

Anoka Hanover made gains first over into the final turn, but caught cover to three-quarters when Wet My Whistle angled off the cones from third. Insta Glam meanwhile expanded her lead by the three-quarters in 1:24.1 but grew leg weary into the stretch. McCarthy took aim with Anoka Hanover to the center of the track and slid to a one-and-a-quarter length victory with ease while stopping the clock in a lifetime-best 1:52.3. Insta Glam held second with Mazzarati finishing third and Hot As Hill fourth.

“She’s always been very clever, very easy going on herself, not nervous at all,” trainer Noel Daley said of Anoka Hanover, whose next start will come in the Goldsmith Maid on Nov. 21. “It’s easy to work with a trotting filly when they’ve got the brains. She’s not the prettiest going thing, but she just had the guts.”

A Donato Hanover-Aunt Mel filly owned by Daley along with L A Express Stable LLC and Caviart Farms, Anoka Hanover collected her ninth victory from 13 starts to push her bankroll to $379,461. She paid $3.60 to win.

Each division of the Kindergarten Classic was presented by sponsor Diamond Creek Farm.

WARRIOR ONE CRUSHES IN BIG M FEATURE

 By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Warrior One started the year like a house on fire, scoring in seven of his first nine starts for trainer Ron Burke before going winless in his next seven outings.

So much for the losing streak.

The 4-year-old gelded son of Father Patrick-Yoga, the only wire-to-wire winner on the card, made his fifth 2020 visit to the Meadowlands winner’s circle in the featured high-end conditioned trot Friday night after stopping the clock in an eye-popping 1:51.4 to lower his previous lifetime best by a full second.

Driver Andy Miller had designs on the top and guided Warrior One directly to the lead, hitting the quarter in :26.3. A rated second fraction of :28.3 followed as Trolley, using trotting hopples for the second time, came first over as they approached the far turn.

But Miller hit the gas pedal again as Trolley, the 3-1 second choice, struggled on the far turn. Warrior One was still going well on the point after rating the middle half in :57.2 before opening up a 2¼-length edge at the head of the stretch on the pocket-sitting 7-5 favorite, HL Revadon.

Warrior One then finished the job by sprinting home in :27.4 to hit the wire three lengths in front of HL Revadon, who was no match. Eye Ofa Tiger As was third. Trolley faded to fifth in the seven-horse field.

Owned by Frank Canzone and Yannick Gingras, Warrior One returned $15.60 as the fourth choice in the wagering in winning for the eighth time this year from 17 starts. Lifetime, he has 12 victories from 47 tries and earnings of $202,446.

A LITTLE MORE: A two-day 20-cent Pick-6 carryover of $13,394 led to a total pool of over $51,000, and after a sequence that saw winner’s odds of 2-1, 7-2, 6-1, 6-1, 9-2 and 2-1, the payoff was a handsome $23,020.24. … The 20-cent Survivor Pick-7 made its return to The Big M betting menu. One lucky player wagering into the Oregon Express hub had the only ticket with all seven winners and cashed in for $3,118.82. … Anette Lorentzon recorded a training double while drivers Vinny Ginsburg and George Napolitano Jr. each won twice to pace the driver’s colony. … All-source handle totaled $1,961,021. … Racing resumes Saturday at 7:15 p.m. with four Kindergarten Classic Finals – worth over $800,000 in total purses – sitting atop the marquee.

MARIANNA MONACO WINS NAADA TROT ATMONTICELLO RACEWAY ON THURSDAY

 by john manzi for NAADA

Monticello, NY---The betting crowd had confidence that Marianna Monaco would win the $5000 NAADA Trot at Monticello Raceway on Thursday afternoon so much so, that they sent her trotter, Hot Summer Knight, away as the 2-5 favorite. And she didn't let them down.

It took a strong stretch drive and a :29.2 final quarter but she hustled the veteran Justice Hall gelding to a come-from-behind triumph over the pace-setter, Ladys Big Stormont (Alan Schwartz), for a head victory in a 2:00 clocking.

When the wings of the mobile gate folded Schwartz gunned Ladys Big Stormont to the lead from the three-hole while Monaco floated away in second position from the two-hole and they remained one-two by the first stanza in :29.4. With no one challenging, Schwartz tapped the breaks---albeit lightly-- and he led his competition by the halfway point in 1:00.1.

Despite a few starters being on the limb as leaders trotted by the half it appeared that the race would be decided between Schwartz and Monaco... And it was.

Ladys Big Stormont got first call by the three quarters but he was being stalked by the odds-on favorite Hot Summer Knight. And when they rounded the final turn and headed for home Schwartz's charge was strong on the lead but Monaco's .trotter was a bit stronger and Hot Summer Knight rallied in the final strides for a head victory. Noble Warrawee finished third for Mike Polansky.

It was the fourth seasonal driving victory for the former “Gamecock” (she's a graduate of University of South Carolina) who had been a pupil of Richie La Cava.

Hot Summer Knight is owned by Lynette Buter and trained by Todd Buter. He paid $2.70 for win.

Next Thursday the series continues at Yonkers Raceway.

KINDERGARTEN FINALS, NEW BETTING MENU ON TAP AT BIG M

 Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – When it comes to the best that harness racing has to offer, all roads lead back to The Meadowlands.

Last week a winding stakes highway that took the best horses and horsemen from Woodbine at Mohawk Park in Ontario to the Delaware, Ohio Fairgrounds to Lexington’s Red Mile made its final stop at Indiana’s Hoosier Park for the Breeders Crown.

Now, the Big M will be the place for the sport’s biggest events for the next three weeks as this Saturday’s (Nov. 7) program kicks everything off with four Kindergarten Classic Finals for 2-year-olds of both sexes and gaits.

Anoka Hanover will try to up her winning streak to six in the $252,340 filly trot while Lindysmusclemania and Jula Muscle Pack – both winners in their final Kindergarten preliminaries – take on Peter Haughton champion Zenith Stride in the $207,570 trot for colts and geldings.

Breeders Crown winner Fire Start Hanover is the marquee attraction in the $151,030 filly pace while Simon Says Hanover – who seeks his fifth straight score – takes on Breeders Crown winner Summa Cum Laude (who dead heated with Perfect Sting) in the $204,050 colt and gelding pace.

Once the Kindergarten is over, it will be time for all Big M watchers to get ready for the third biggest program of the calendar year – after Hambletonian Day and Meadowlands Pace Night – when Fall Final Four/TVG Finals Night takes place on Nov. 21 with many Breeders Crown participants expected to be on hand.

That evening, 2-year-olds will once again be in the spotlight as the Governor’s Cup (colt pace), Three Diamonds (filly pace), Valley Victory (colt trot) and Goldsmith Maid (filly trot) makeup the Fall Final Four, with total purses of about $1.8 million.

In addition, year-end divisional honors figure to be determined by what happens in the four TVG Finals, which are the Mares Trot, Open Trot, Mares Pace and Open Pace, a fabulous foursome which will see just over $1 million get doled out.

CUP RUNNETH OVER: One of the biggest events on every track’s simulcast calendar is the Breeders’ Cup, and this weekend the best in Thoroughbred racing will be at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, KY for the 14-race extravaganza.

The Cup will be the centerpiece of the Meadowlands’ simulcast offerings over the weekend, as the event will begin with five races on Friday (Nov. 6) and conclude on Saturday (Nov. 7) with nine more dashes, the last of which is the $6 million Breeders’ Cup Classic.

The first Breeders’ Cup race on Friday is scheduled for 2:30 p.m., while Saturday’s opener goes at 12:02 p.m. The Classic has a post time of 5:13 p.m.

BETTING MENU UPDATE: The Meadowlands is refreshing its betting menu. There will be some addition and subtraction of wagers and it is bringing back guaranteed pools to its most-popular plays.

On a normal 13-race card, gone is the fifth race 10-cent Pentafecta and ninth race 20-cent Pick-5, but those who liked the 20-cent Survivor will no doubt be pleased that bet is back, albeit in a seven-race format rather than the former 10-race marathon.

Effective, Saturday (Nov. 7), here is the new wagering lineup for a normal 13-race card. Each bet offers a low 15 percent takeout:

·         Race 1: 20-cent Pick-5 ($50,000 guaranteed)

·         Race 3: 20-cent Survivor Pick-7

·         Race 6: 50-cent Pick-4 ($50,000 guaranteed)

·         Race 8: 20-cent Pick-6

·         Race 10: 50-cent Pick-4 ($40,000 guaranteed)

·         Race 13: 10-cent Pentafecta

“We are aware that many of our fans wanted the Survivor wager back,” said Big M Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Jason Settlemoir, “and we are happy to oblige them with the Survivor Pick-7.”

On Friday (Nov. 6) night, the Meadowlands will offer a 12-race card, so there will be one less Pick-4 offered, but because of a two-day carryover in the 20-cent Pick-6, a $25,000 guaranteed pool will be offered on the wager that kicks off in the sixth race. There will also be $50,000 promises on the first race Pick-5 and ninth race Pick-4, meaning that during the weekend, a total of $265,000 in guaranteed green will be up for grabs.

FREE PPs: For free past performances of Meadowlands races, courtesy of the United States Trotting Association and TrackMaster, go to playmeadowlands.com, where one can access races six through 12 on the Friday night card and races one through five for Saturday.

TWEET THE TEAM: Stay in touch on Twitter with the Big M’s Dave Brower (@eedoogie), Dave Little (@DaveLittleBigM), Ken Warkentin (@kenvoiceover), Andrew Demsky (@shadesonracing) and Jessica Otten (@JessicaOtten1). Check in everyday for Meadowlands news and updates at those handles, as well as @TheMeadowlands and #playbigm.

CHECK OUT THE PICKS: For those who need to get a leg up on the action, go to playmeadowlands.com to see track oddsmaker and analyst Brower’s selections and commentary. Click on this link to check out Friday’s card: http://playmeadowlands.com/RaceReviews.aspx?racedt=11/6/2020.

Additionally, track announcer Warkentin’s blog is available on the site and offers his picks and analysis.

On race nights, access picks and plays from the Big M TV team at #playbigm or at @TheMeadowlands.

CHECK OUT THE SHOW: As always look for the “Racing from The Meadowlands” live in-house simulcast show every Friday and Saturday night. The Big M’s regular team of Brower and Little will be on set both nights this weekend in addition to providing winner’s circle interviews for the Kindergarten Classic. The pre-game show begins at 6:42 p.m. First race is at 7:15 p.m.

If you want to watch all the action at home, go to rtn.tv or your favorite ADW platform to catch every race live.

GET YOUR FOOTBALL ACTION: You can watch and wager on all the National Football League