Sun sets on Arlington, but horse racing goes on at Hawthorne

Industry expected to grow even as Arlington shuts down

HINSDALE IL--Arlington Park will host its final Thoroughbred races this weekend but Chicago horse racing will carry on at Hawthorne Racecourse, and Illinois horsemen are optimistic that a second new racetrack will be built in the near southwest suburbs in the next few years.

 “Illinois horse racing is poised to make a comeback,” said Illinois Harness Horsemen’s Association President Marty Engel. “There is a lot of excitement in the industry, especially in harness racing. A new day is dawning.”

 Illinois horsemen won approval for casino-style gaming at racetracks in 2019. That system of supplementing purses has been used by other horse racing states to revive the breeding industry. Over the years, Illinois harness racing – once a premier harness destination in the United States – has been decimated by riverboats and land-based casinos.  Horsemen here moved their farms and employees to other states that offered more opportunity because of slot machines at racetracks. At one time, horse racing and agribusinesses in Illinois employed 40,000 people including breeders, trainers, grooms, veterinarians, blacksmiths, and farmers.

A NEW RACETRACK

Another achievement of the 2019 legislation is language that will allow for a new Standardbred only racino to be opened in Chicago’s southwest suburbs. Currently, Standardbred racing only happens at Hawthorne Racetrack which splits it’s time between Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing.

 The number of foals born in 2020 was 354, up from 144 born in 2018. And while that is a far cry from the peak of 2,535 horses born in 1984, it is solid growth that can be built upon. Because of the recently passed “racino” bill, Illinois-bred horses will be racing for larger purses and better racing opportunities in the years to come and that has driven interest in owning Illinois Standarbred racehorses.

Meadowlands Racetrack’s 6th Annual Chili Cook Off this Saturday

 

Meadowlands Chili Cook-off this Saturday, September 25 with $4,750 in Prize Money

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – This Saturday, September 25^th is the Meadowlands Racetrack’s 6^th annual Chili Cook Off! This year’s cook off features Salsa, Homestyle Chili and Chili Verde categories.

 Grand prize winners will earn a spot in the International Chili Society’s 2022 Annual World Championship Chili Cook-off in their categories. Cooks can still register at https://www.chilicookoff.com/cookoffs/full/6302

 There are also cash prizes for the runners up in each category:

Home-style Chili:

* $1,000 Grand Prize plus a spot in the ICS's World Championship Home-style Chili Cook-off 

* $500 - 2nd
* $250 - 3rd 

 

 Chili Verde:

* $1,000 Grand Prize plus a spot in the ICS's World Championship Chili Verde Cook-off 

* $500 - 2nd
* $250 - 3rd 

The Salsa category makes a return to the official ICS World Championships after a brief hiatus. Grand prize is $500 in addition to winning a spot in the ICS’s World Championship.  The 2^nd place winner receives $250 while third place earns $100.

Racetrack guests are also welcome to be part of the fun.  They are encouraged to sample the chili and vote for their favorite.  The fan favorite cook will walk away with the $250 prize, 2^nd will receive $100 and third place $50.  Fan favorite voting begins 8 pm; voting tickets are available in the chili cook off area. 

As an added bonus, fans can enjoy live harness racing with first race post time at 6:20 pm.    

For complete chili event details visit http://playmeadowlands.com/event_detail.aspx?id=13416

BURKE, GINGRAS, TEAGUE JOIN BORING AS SET FOR HALL OF FAME

Christiansburg, Ohio -- The United States Harness Writers Association (USHWA) is pleased to announce that Ron Burke, George Teague, Jr., and Yannick Gingras will be inducted into the 2022 Harness Racing Hall of Fame, along with Chris Boring who will be inducted in the Veterans category.

 

“This is a fantastic group of horsemen who will be inducted at Goshen in 2022,” said Kimberly Rinker, USHWA President. “All of them have contributed greatly to harness racing through their professionalism, indefatigable work ethics, horsemanship, and willingness to participate in publicity for the betterment of the sport. They without a doubt certainly deserve this honor.”

 

The trio of Burke, Gingras, and Teague secured well above the 75% of the yes-no votes required of the electorate, with 147 ballots cast in the voting conducted by USHWA.

 

This quartet will first be honored at USHWA’s Dan Patch Awards & Night of Champions on February 20, 2022, at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort, in Orlando, Florida. They will be formally inducted into the Harness Racing Hall of Fame on July 3, 2022 in Goshen, New York.

 

Ron Burke has rewritten the definition of the modern trainer while shattering all previous records for trainers in earnings and money – he currently has sent out more than 11,700 winners, 4,900 more than any other conditioner, and the $250 million+ earnings of his trotters and pacers are nearly double of his closest competitor. He is a three-time winner of the Glen Garnsey Trainer of the Year award selected by USHWA, in 2011, 2013, and 2018.

 

The list of champions with whom Burke has been associated could go on for paragraphs, but some top horses would be the highest earner of all-time, Foiled Again ($7.6 million); Hannelore Hanover, the trotting mare who was 2017 Horse of the Year; Mission Brief; and Sweet Lou. His stable has sent out 18 Breeders Crown champions.

 

Foiled Again and some other top Burke Brigade horses were driven by Yannick Gingras, who came to the United States from his native Quebec, was USHWA’s Rising Star of 2003, and has gone on to establish himself among the very highest ranks of drivers that trainers seek out to handle their champions, while additionally continuing to post a high UDR with all the horses he drives.

 

Likely before the end of the year to become the sixth driver to join a select club of horsemen whose horses have earned $200 million, Gingras is a two-time Driver of the Year (2014, 2017) who led the sport in earnings for four years and finished second four other times. He has to his credit 24 Breeders Crown championships, six of the last seven Hambletonian Oaks and countless other major races, and has guided stars such as 2020 Horse of the Year Tall Dark Stranger, Foiled Again (as noted), Mission Brief, and at times the redoubtable evergreen trotting mares Manchego and Atlanta.

 

George Teague Jr. has campaigned some of the top horses of the 21^st century. That list would begin with Rainbow Blue, a pacing distaff who was the 2004 Horse of the Year while winning all but one of her 21 seasonal starts and who is generally regarded as one of the most talented female pacers of all-time.

 

A second Horse of the Year campaign by a Teague horse came from Wiggle It Jiggleit (2015), who was as prolific a winner as Rainbow Blue and who earned over $4 million in his combined 3- and 4-year-old seasons, with his most famous win coming in the Little Brown Jug where he was passed in the stretch but fought on to claim the victory. Most recently Team Teague has campaigned Lather Up, a tremendously fast pacer who shares the 1:46 record for the fastest mile ever with Always B Miki.

 

The exploits of George Teague Jr. have earned him the William R. Haughton Good Guy Award (2004, 2016) and HHI’s Dominic Frinzi Person of the Year (2016); in that same year, his outstanding Team Teague received the Stan Bergstein Proximity Award, USHWA’s highest honor.

 

Boring is a direct member of the Hall of Fame through the Veterans provision, which permits the Screening Committee once every three years to make a direct assignment of a person 70 years of age or older, who has contributed greatly to harness racing.

 

Chris Boring, a member of one of Michigan’s founding families of harness racing, began to make his reputation in his native state early in his career, and then made his first foray into the national spotlight with True Duane, a winner of $360,000+ more than 50 years ago. True Duane is best known for defeating older stars Cardigan Bay and Bret Hanover while a sophomore in the American Pacing Classic at Hollywood Park, obliterating the world record for 1 and 1/8 miles.

 

Boring was the handler of Colt Fortysix, winner of the 1984 Little Brown Jug, with whom he had earlier won in 1:50.3 at Springfield (the fastest time ever in a race), and another outstanding 3-year-old, Albert Albert. A member of the Michigan Harness Hall of Fame and inaugural class of the Hazel Park Hall of Fame, Boring won races in seven different decades, amassing 3,979 wins and $19,832,277 as a driver. He had the respect from his peers as a master horseman, especially with younger horses.

 

Any further inquiries can be directed to USHWA at ushwainfo@gmail.com.

 

ALESHA BINKLEY; JAZMIN ARNOLD; TYLOR PRICE; GLADA WINNERS AT DELAWARE, OHIO

 by John Manzi for GLADA

 

Delaware, Ohio---Three races for GLADA  amateur drivers in were featured today(Sept 19) at the  home of the Little Brown Jug and when the judges declared each official, Alesha Binkley, Jazmin Arnold and Tylor Price were victorious in their respective divisions;

 

 Binkley won with Lucius Vorenus in 1:58.4 while Arnold copped her split with Mj's Libertyvalance in 2:01.1 and Tylor Price was victorious with Quadrangle in 1:58.1.

 

In her division Binkley's trotter was sent away as second choice in the 6-horse field and she wasted no time sending her charge to the lead. And once on top she gave the veteran Father Patrick trotter his head and Lucius Vorenus began putting daylight between him and his rivals drawing off to a 7-1/2 length triumph  over the betting favorite Gonna Fly (Steve Oldford). PC's Alleyway garnered the show dough for Shawn Sweeney.

 

Lucius Vorenus is owned and trained by Stacey Van Hulzen. He paid $6.20 for win. For Ms Binkley it was her 27th career winning drive.

 

The ladies continued to shine when Jazmin Arnold used the front end route  to notch a nose victory with MJ's Libertyvalence in 2:01.1. After cutting all the early fractions Arnold's trotter hung tough and eked-out a very close nose victory over Steve Oldford's 

A Royal Line.

 

Doyle Bross owns and trains the altered son of Wishing Stone who returned a $7.80 win mutuel. And for Ms Arnold it was her 27th career driving victory.

 

In his split Tylor Price was content to follow the leaders until the halfway point where he moved Quadrangle off the pylons and began moving up. Content to follow Don Sherman's Heidi's Heart to the head of the lane and then rally his trotter to a  neck triumph over Sheman's charge in 1:58.1. Utopia garnered the show dough for Tony Verruso.   

 

Quadrangle is owned by James Dutton and trained by Tylor Price. He paid $14.00 for win And Tylor Price is truly man because his victory with Quadrangle was the first of his driving career.   

 

.CHIN CHIN HALL TAKES BIG M FEATURE

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – With the exception of what route he took through the stretch, Chin Chin Hall made it two wins in his last three tries in the Saturday night feature, the $36,000 Open Trot, at The Meadowlands Saturday night after going a four-hole trip.

The Cash Hall-Canland Hall product won this event on Sept. 4 by swerving to the center of the track and methodically making his way to the lead nearing the finish. This time around, he waited for room along the inside and as horses vacated their spots along the pylons, Chin Chin Hall closed with a rush to get his seventh win of the season from just 17 starts.

“I just wanted to get away as close as possible,” said driver Victor Kirby. “Things were good, especially when the rail opened up. He just punched home. He does what you ask him, but you have to ask him.”

Lovedbythemasses, the even-money favorite, went to the lead seeking his second straight Open score, but on a night when the track bias was unkind to horses racing on the point, he could not maintain his edge and ended up finishing 4^th in a four-way photo in the six-horse field.

Chin Chin Hall, a Nifty Norman trainee, has filled his fans pockets with green, returning $17.40 to win as the fourth choice in the wagering two weeks after paying $35.40. Crystal Fashion was a neck back in second with Big Oil third. The time for the mile was 1:51.4 for the 5-year-old gelding, who is owned by Oldford Racing and David McDuffee. He now has 12 wins from 43 lifetime starts and earnings of $656,040.

On the undercard, Vettel N stayed in striking position through the stretch and just got up in a three-way photo to take the $100,000-$150,000 claiming handicap pace for a second consecutive week.

The 8-year-old gelded son of American Ideal-Talk To Angels lowered his lifetime-best to 1:48.3 in defeating Twin B Tuffenuff by a nose with 2-1 favorite Semi Tough third. Vettel N, who was driven by Vinny Ginsburg and is trained by Jenn Bongiorno, returned $10.40 to his backers as the fourth choice in the betting in winning for the 32^nd time from 125 lifetime tries.

A LITTLE MORE: Kirby led the driver’s colony with three winners. George Napolitano Jr. and Ginsburg had two apiece. … Edwin Quevedo and Norman each trained a pair to victory lane. Norman finished the weekend with five victories … There were no winning tickets sold in the 20-cent Pick-6, creating a carryover of $4,002.65. Those with five correct collected $233.82. … All-source handle totaled $2,231,892. … Racing resumes Friday at 6:20 p.m.  

FAVORED FILLIES FABULOUS IN BIG M’S KINDERGARTEN

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – The third leg of the Kindergarten Series featured nine divisions for 2-year-olds of each sex and gait at The Meadowlands Friday night, with a pair of trotting fillies scoring impressively after being heavily bet at the windows.

Lilbitalexis (Walner-Jolie De Vie) stopped the clock in a lifetime-best 1:52.2 for trainer Nifty Norman to lift her lifetime stats to five wins from six starts. The 1-9 public choice ($2.20 to win) took over at the half and strolled to a 2¼-length, never-in-doubt score.

“She’s pretty special,” said driver Todd McCarthy. “I was getting off the first turn there pretty good and once she got to the pocket she was good. She then moved to the lead easily. I heard Mark [MacDonald, driving second-place finisher Cash Infusion] on my back in the stretch but when I popped the ear plugs, she went well from there.”

Misswalner Fashion (Walner-Sweet Love) made it three wins in four lifetime tries for trainer Jim Campbell after hitting the wire in a lifetime-best 1:54.1, 6¼ lengths in front of Lookin Chic after she made the front just after the quarter.

“She’s got tons of talent,” said driver Tim Tetrick. “She didn’t like the dirt hitting her in the face early and I didn’t want to get away too far back. I didn’t want to cut the mile because she was asleep up there on the lead. She’d be happy to go 45 seconds for a quarter so I had to keep her busy.”

Misswalner Fashion paid $2.40 as the 1-5 favorite on a night where favorites scored 12 times on the 13-race card.

Robertsin ($2.60 as the 1-5 public choice) tripped out to take a division for male trotters. The gelding by Muscle Hill-Sina charged home off cover to win by a head in 1:55 for trainer Nik Drennan.

Driver George Brennan likes his horse but didn’t think he was at his best. “I didn’t want to have to put him on the lead. I wanted to get some kind of trip. The trip worked out good. He should have finished it off much better because early in the season he was coming home in :27. Tonight, he did not rocket right by. He wasn’t explosive. But his ‘B’ game was good enough.”

The Brett Pelling-trained Hammering Hank stayed perfect in five lifetime starts in a split for pacing colts and geldings. The gelded son of Captaintreacherous-History Repeats was last at the half in the seven-horse field, picked up a live tow from Layton Hanover down the backstretch and rolled by late to win by a length over Seven Hundred with McCarthy in the bike in 1:53.4.

The 1-9 favorite paid $2.20 to win.

A LITTLE MORE: McCarthy scored four times on the card while Norman trained three to victory lane. … The lone winning non-favorite came in the first race as Kingofthejungle scored in a GSY Series event at odds of 4-1. … All-source handle totaled $2,144,644. … Racing resumes Saturday at 6:20 p.m. 

JOE PENNACCHIO WINS NAADA TROT WITH PRESCOTT AT MONTICELLO ON `` SEPT 15

Monticello, NY-- When Joe Pennacchio moved Prescott first-up at the half not only did he block others but his recent purchase rallied to challenge Makin Trouble K (Joe Lee) and then sped past him in the deep stretch to score a 1:59.3 victory in the NAADA trotting series at Monticello Raceway on the ides of September.

"We had the pole but Joe Lee hustled his trotter to the front and they led us by the first stanza in :29 seconds," Pennacchio said.

With the field in single file as they headed for the halfway point Pennacchio was the first to move.

"My horse felt strong so I moved him out to challenge for the lead as the field headed to the half and we raced side by side with Makin Trouble N  up the backside and around the last turn and when I  asked him for more the little guy ( Prescott)  gave it to me and we went on to an easy two-length victory," Pennacchio related.

Pennacchio said he recently purchased Prescott  because his other trotters had won their way above of the series regulations  and became ineligible.

"So three weeks ago I bought Prescott to have a horse for this series and I love him.. he's such a pleasure to drive."

Prescott is owned by Joe P Racing LLC and trained by Cory Stratton. Sent off as the favorite in the race he paid $4.40 for win.

  

 

2021 World Harness Handicapping Championship (WHHC) presented by DerbyWars.com Cancelled

 

Meadowlands Racetrack

East Rutherford, NJ - Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and people’s uncertainty and uneasiness with traveling, the 2021 World Harness Handicapping Championship presented by DerbyWars.com has been cancelled.   

Players that qualified for a seat through various outlets including the Meadowlands Survival Challenge, will be refunded the $1,300 tournament seat as a prize payout. 

“After speaking with our players this was the best decision,” said Rachel Ryan, Director of Marketing and On-site Events for the Meadowlands Racetrack.  “Many of our players are still uncomfortable traveling due to the pandemic.  Hopefully we can restart the WHHC in 2022 and have a number of onsite tournaments that allow players to win their entry into the Final.”

WHHC updates will be posted at PlayMeadowlands.com.

Meadowlands Racetrack is a Burger Lover’s Paradise

 Local Food Trucks & Delicious Burgers

 

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – This Saturday, September 18^th the 6^th annual Burger Battle returns to the Meadowlands Racetrack.  $3,000 is up for grabs in the Battle with a $1,500 grand prize, $1,000 second place prize and $500 third place prize.

From 5:00 p.m.-11 p.m. in the Backyard, fans can grab some delicious burgers and food truck eats from some of the best local food trucks and restaurants in the area.

Twelve contestants have signed up to compete in this year’s Burger Battle including: Magic Mike’s Smoked Meats, The Mozzarella God, Twelve Truck, Spanky’s Gourmet Grub, Cheeseburger Cheeseburger, Rod’s Fish and Chips, Super Stuffed Burgers, Antojitos De Mi Tierra, The Rolling Pita, Latin Bites, Grumpy’s Shack and Hamurguesa. All will be serving up their original burger creations in hopes of winning the $1,500 top prize.

Additional food and dessert options ranging from empanadas to fish and chips will be provided by The Empanada Truck, DAW Concessions, and Clyde’s Homemade Italian Ice and Ice Cream.

In addition to the great burgers, fans will be treated to exciting horse racing on the track with post time at 6:20pm

All the Burger Battle details can be found at http://playmeadowlands.com/event_detail.aspx?id=13715  

 

Boyd and Deters team up to sweep features at Tioga

Driver Braxten Boyd and trainer Mike Deters combine to capture the co-features at Tioga Downs on Sunday (September 12). 

Anchors Away ($6.00) hangs on to take the $9,000 Open 2 trot. 

Joey Pro (Wally Hennessey) went to the front and led to the first quarter in :27.2.  He used a :29.2 second quarter to lead to the half in :56.4.  Anchors Away made his move first-over down the backstretch.  He took a short lead to three-quarters in 1:25.3. 

As they entered the stretch a mad scramble was on as they went five across the track.  As they reached deep stretch it was down to two as Sortie (Marcus Miller) came charging while Anchors Away dug in and held on to win in 1:55.4.  Sortie had to settle for second while Jammin Jack (Corey Braden) finished third. 

Anchors Away is a 4-year-old gelding by Whom Shall I Fear.  He is owned by Joel Warner and trainer Deters.  It was win number nine in 2021.  He now has 14 career victories. 

Mighty Santana N ($3.20) cruises to an easy win in the $9,000 Open 2 Pace. 

Agedcheddar Hanover (Wally Hennessey) went to the front but Mighty Santana N came flying by and got the lead just before hitting the first quarter in :27.1.  He was first to the half in :55.2.  Mississippi Rabbit (Mike Simons) was the first to make a move going first-over down the backstretch.  Mighty Santana N led to three-quarters in 1:23.0. 

As they made the turn for home Mighty Santana N let out another gear and made it a race for second.  He breezed home to win easily in 1:51.3.  Agedcheddar Hanover was second best as Mississippi Rabbit finished  third. 

Mighty Santana N is an 8-year-old gelding by Santana Blue Chip.  Owned by Deters and Warner.  It was his sixth win this season.  He now has 18 career victories. 

Boyd drove four winners in all as Deters trained three winners.  They combined for another win with Hidden Assassin ($2.30).  Boyd got his other win with KJ Leo ($10.40).  

Tioga Downs returns to Live racing on Friday (September 17) starting at 6:15 p.m. 

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com. 

Vicious Finds Succses at Tiogoa Downs

 By Shades, Tioga Downs Media Relations

NICHOLS, NY – After struggling to hit the board in August at Yonkers, Vicious Circle shipped to Tioga Downs and stayed perfect in September, winning race five, the Fillies and Mares Open II Pace on Saturday night.

Vicious Circle, the daughter of Manhardt-Vivacious Raider, moved into the John Hallett barn since arriving from Yonkers, and has done no wrong in Nichols, NY. She surged for victory last week, beating lesser competition and jumped up a notch on the class ladder for her second local effort.

Driver Bruce Aldrich Jr wasted no time, hitting the gas early with the 4-year-old mare, sending her straight to the top. No Where to Hide, a winner by three lengths in her last Tioga Downs effort, was hot on her tail. Vicious Circle paced the opening quarter in :27.

There was little movement as the field of seven pacing mares went to the half single file with Vicious Circle clipping the beam in :55.2. Down the backstretch, Shecouldbegood N made an aggressive first-over charge only to stall alongside No Where to Hide, never seriously challenging Vicious Circle who hit three-quarters in 1:23.0.

When the field straightened away for the wire, No Where to Hide pulled the pocket to no avail. Vicious Circle went on to win in 1:51.3, a new lifetime best mark. No Where to Hide settled for second with Shecouldbegood N checking in third.

Vicious Circle paid $4.60 to win as the 6/5 favorite. This was her twenty-second win from forty-eight career starts.

THROUGH THE SHADES: Tioga Downs' leading-driver, Wally Hennessey, entered Saturday night with 10,983 career driving wins and is quickly approaching the 11,000-win milestone. On Sunday, September 12, Tioga Downs will hold the “Change Your Luck” promotion where on-track patrons will have an opportunity to turn losing tickets into free wagering vouchers. The 10 race card begins at 1pm.

Excelsior “A” horses shine at Vernon.

Vernon Downs played host to eight $50,000 Excelsior “A” finals on Saturday (September 11). 

 

Debs Prince Hall (Alek Chartrand) comes back late to win the freshmen trotting colts & geldings final. 

 

Southwind Rifle (Brian Cross) took the early lead but Debs Prince Hall ($7.40) took over before hitting the first quarter in :28.1.  Debs Prince Hall was first to the half in 1:00.2 and to three-quarters in 1:29.3. 

 

As they reached the stretch Southwind Rifle popped the pocket and the fight was on.  Southwind Rifle took a short lead in deep stretch but Debs Prince Hall used a late surge in the finals yards and won in 1:59.2.  Southwind Rifle had to settle for second with Barn Bully (Andy Miller) getting third. 

 

Debs Prince Hall is a colt by Conway Hall-Debs Princess.  Owned by Richard Vale and trained by Chartrand.  It was career win number three. 

 

Nadina Hanover (Wally Hennessey) hangs on to win the final for 2-year-old pacing fillies. 

 

Flip The Script (Jordan Stratton) was first to the quarter in :27.2.  Nadina Hanover ($12.60) came first-up from fourth to take over and lead to the half.  American Jazz (Jason Bartlett) made her move and battled Nadina Hanover around the final turn.  American Jazz took a short lead to three-quarters in 1:26.4. 

 

As they made the turn for home Nadina Hanover battled back and re-claimed the lead in the stretch.  Flip The Script came flying late but had to settle for second as Nadina Hanover hung on to win in 1:54.1.  American Jazz finished third. 

 

Nadina Hanover is a filly by American Ideal-New Album.  She is owned by the Dune Road Stables and trained by R Nifty Norman.  It was her third career win. 

 

Impact Jane (Wally Hennessey) is upset winner in the final for 2-year-old trotting fillies. 

 

Impact Jane ($19.60) led to the quarter in :28.1 and to the half in :59.1.  Angels Trolly (Trond Smedshammer) came first-over and took the lead at three-quarters in 1:28.2. 

 

Impact Jane re-claimed the lead in the stretch.  She held off a late charge from second-place finisher, Adjure Hanover (Braxten Boyd) to get her first career victory in 1:56.2.  Je Suis Si Belle (Andy Miller) was third best. 

 

Impact Jane is a filly by E L Titan-Miss Gibbons.  She is owned by Howard Gill and trained by George Ducharme.   

 

Jovian (Wally Hennessey) charges late to win the final for freshmen pacing colts & geldings. 

 

Power Blu (Matt Kakaley) led to the first quarter in :26.4 and to the half in :57.3.  Handsoffmytitos (Andy Miller) came flying first-over and led to three-quarters in 1:25.2.   

 

It was Power Blu back in front when they entered the stretch.  Jovian (17.20) forged his way to the front and won his first career race in 1:53.4.  Shakertown (Jason Bartlett) came up to finish second.  Power Blu had to settle for third. 

 

Jovian is a gelding by Roll With Joe-Kings Ideal.  He is owned by Curran Racing LLC., Adam Friedland, and trainer Eve Bergeron. 

 

Chapolier (Jordan Stratton) captures the final for 3-year-old trotting colts & geldings. 

 

Chapolier ($9.00) was first to the quarter in :26.2.  Barn Hall (Braxten Boyd) took over and led to the half in :56.4 and to three-quarters in 1:26.0. 

 

As they made the turn for home Chapolier found an opening on the inside and went on by to win in a lifetime best of 1:54.2.  Barn Hall was second best as Creditrina (Trond Smedshammer) finished third. 

 

Chapolier is a gelding by Chapter Seven.  He is owned by William Hartt and trained by Lance Hudson.  It was his third win of the season and his career. 

 

Therewasthisgirl (Tyler Buter) dominates sophomores in the pacing fillies final. 

 

Seafood Sweetheart (Andy Miller) was first to the first quarter in :27.0.  So Amazing (Wally Hennessey) then made her move to hit the half first in :55.4.  Therewasthisgirl ($2.30) took over heading to the final turn as she was first to three-quarters in 1:24.1. 

 

Therewasthisgirl breezed her way down the stretch winning it easily in a lifetime best of 1:51.4.  Itzpapalotl (Jason Bartlett) fired late to finish second.  Relay Roll (Matt Kakaley) collected third money. 

 

Therewasthisgirl is a filly by So Surreal.  She is owned by Heather Marshall and trainer George Ducharme.  She won for the fifth time this season after being winless as a two-year-old. 

 

Cindy Michelle (John Stark Jr.) takes the 3-year-old trotting fillies final. 

 

Just Joshing (Andy Miller) controlled all the early fractions (:27.2, :57.1, 1:27.0). 

 

As they made the turn for home Izzy Demsky (Mattias Melander) battled Cindy Michelle all they way down the stretch.  Cindy Michelle was too strong and won in 1:56.0.  Izzy Demsky had to settle for second with You Make It Easy (Jason Bartlett) getting third. 

 

Cindy Michelle is a filly by E L Titan.  She is trained by Stark Jr. for owners Peter Barbato and Sam Bova Racing.  Unraced as a two-year old she has eight wins this season. 

 

Isaac (Tyler Buter) nips Bolt Power (Jason Bartlett) in the sophomore pacing colts & geldings final. 

 

Surrealin (Matt Kakaley) led to the first quarter in :26.2 and to the half in :55.3.  Bolt Power made his move and led to three-quarters in 1:23.3. 

 

As they reached the stretch Bolt Power continued to lead but Isaac ($19.80) had other ideas and ran him down to get the victory in a lifetime best mile of 1:51.3.  Bolt Power had to settle for second.  Trevor’s Ace (Jimmy Whittemore) came up to finish third. 

 

Isaac is a colt by American Ideal.  He is owned by Amy Cable and trained by George Ducharme.  It was his fourth win this season and the eighth win of his career. 

 

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday (September 17). 

 

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com. 

 

FIVE EACH FOR SEARS AND BURKE AT BIG M

 

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Driver Brian Sears and trainer Ron Burke were on fire Saturday night at The Meadowlands, as each recorded five winners on the 13-race card.

Three times the pair teamed up to score, hitting the winner’s circle with Globetrotting ($3.60 to win as the 4-5 favorite) in the fourth race low-end conditioned trot in a lifetime-best equaling 1:52.4, Bee Two Bee ($5.20 as the 8-5 public choice) in the seventh race mid-range conditioned pace in a lifetime-best 1:49.1 and Warrawee Ubeaut ($5.40 as the 8-5 favorite) in the ninth race high-end conditioned pace for fillies and mares in 1:48.4.

Sears’ other victories came with Sweet Lucy Lou ($4.20 as the even-money choice) for trainer Robert Cleary in the third race low-end conditioned pace for fillies and mares in 1:50.1 and Lovedbythemasses ($3.20 as the 3-5 favorite) in the sixth race featured Open Trot in 1:51.3 for Jeff Cullipher.

Burke’s other two scores were handled by George Brennan. De Los Cielos Deo ($2.20 as the 1-9 public choice) took the second race low-end conditioned pace in 1:49.1 and Patriarch Hanover ($3.40 as the 3-5 favorite) wired the field in the eighth race mid-range conditioned trot in 1:53.3.

A LITTLE MORE: Corey Callahan, Marcus Miller and Brennan all recorded driving doubles while Cullipher trained a pair to victory lane. … There were no winning tickets sold in the 20-cent Pick-6, which means the wager will start out with a $3,576 carryover Friday night. Those with five correct collected $63.44. … All-source handle totaled $2,337,146. … Racing resumes Friday at 6:20 p.m.

-30-

Excelsior “A” finals set for Saturday at Vernon.

Vernon Downs will host eight $50,000 Excelsior “A” finals on Saturday (September 11). 

In the final for 2-year-old trotting colts & geldings the morning line favorite at 3-2 is the Timothy Dickie trained Southwind Rifle (Brian Cross).  The gelding by Devious Man-Raising Roxanne is three for five lifetime. 

Patsville (Tyler Buter) is the top choice in the final for 2-year-old pacing fillies.  John Butenschoen trains the filly by Huntsvillie-Major Master Piece.  She has reached the winner’s circle four times in her career. 

The Julie Miller trained entry of Je Suis Si Belle (Andy Miller) and Adjure Hanover (Braxten Boyd) are the 3-5 morning line choice in the final for 2-year-old trotting fillies.  Je Suis Si Belle is a filly by Chapter Seven-Somebody To Love.  She has picked up two wins in four starts.  Adjure Hanover is a filly by Chapter Seven-Anonyme Hanover.  She has three wins and two seconds in five starts. 

Tony Alagna trains Shakertown (Jason Bartlett), who is the morning line favorite in the final for freshmen pacing colts & geldings.  The colt by American Ideal-Shake That Junk has won two of his five career starts. 

The entry of Barn Hall (Braxten Boyd) and Creditrina (Trond Smedshammer) are the 7-5 morning line choices in the final for 3-year-old trotting colts & geldings.  Steven Pratt trains Barn Hall, the colt by Conway Hall.  He has four wins this season and eight victories in his career.  Creditrina is a gelding by Credit Winner.  Trained by Smedshammer, he has four career wins. 

The entry of Therewasthisgirl (Tyler Buter) and So Amazing (Wally Hennessey) are the even money morning line favorites in the final for 3-year-old pacing fillies.  The So Surreal fillies are trained by George Ducharme.  Therewasthisgirl has four wins this season after being winless as a 2-year-old.  So Amazing has six wins this season and has reached the winner’s circle 10 times in her career.  

Marcus Melander trains the entry of Izzy Demsky (Mattias Melander) and Insured AM S (Braxten Boyd) in the final for 3-year-old trotting fillies.  The duo are the 3-2 morning line favorites.  PCzzy Demsky is a filly by E LTitan.  She has four wins this season and seven career victories.  Insured AM S is a filly by Chapter Seven.  She has two wins in 2021 and has been to the winner’s circle three times in her career. 

The 3-1 morning line favorites in the final for 3-year-old pacing colts & geldings are the Paul Kelley trained entry of Icangogo (Wally Hennessey) and Surrealin (Matt Kakaley).  Icangogo is a gelding by American Ideal.  He has two career wins.  Surrealin is a gelding by So Surreal.  He has five career victories all in 2021. 

 

The 12-race card starts at 6:10 p.m.  Fireworks follows live racing.

 

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com

Annual Meadowlands Racetrack Beerfest Just Days Away

 Sixty-one Featured Breweries on Saturday, September 11^th

 

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – This Saturday, September 11^th, Meadowlands Racing and Entertainment hosts its   Annual Racetrack Beer Fest.  Doors open for VIP at 4:30 pm with General Admission at 5:30 pm and beer is poured until 9:30pm. It is an evening of great craft beer and horse racing. 

The Beer Fest will be held in the Backyard and opens at 4:30 pm for VIP admission.  The VIP ticket is $85 (or $90 at the door) and includes an additional 1 hour of sampling, exclusive VIP Tent beer samplings, and food buffet.  General Admission begins at 5:30 pm and is available in advance for $45 or at the door for $50.  Live harness racing will commence at 6:20pm.

To purchase tickets visit PlayMeadowlands.com/beer  

Sixty-one breweries, hard seltzer producers and cideries will be highlighted including a number of local New Jersey brewers.   NJ favorites Bolero Snort, Ghost Hawk, Ashton, Toms River, 902 Brewing Company, NJ Beer Co., United Brewing Seven Tribesmen, Opportunity, and Angry Dad will be at the festival.

A variety of hard seltzers from Broad Street, Brooklyn, Press Seltzer, Lone River Ranch Water and Victory Waves will be sampled on Saturday. 

Ciders from Doc’s Hard Cider, Citizen Cider, Ommegang and City Roots can also be sampled for a little change of pace. 

Other featured breweries include: Halyard, Elysian Brewery, Golden Road, Kona, Clown Shoes, The Shed, Flagship, Deschutes, Sierra Nevada, Sam Adams, New Belgium, Boulevard, Revolution, Harpoon, Captain Lawrence, Firestone Walker, Clown Shoes, UFO, Evil Genius, Great Lakes, Jersey Girl, Cricket Hill, and Flying Fish.

There are fifteen brews available for VIP ticket holders.  Some standouts include Ashton Brewery’s Midnight Moonlight, Cisco Wandering Haze, Elysian Full Contact, Firestone Walker Tequila Barrel Sunrise, Ommegang Neon Rainbows, Bronx Brewery City Island Sour IPA, Halyard Volcanic Juice, and Opportunity Ocean Haze IPA.

A full list of the festival beers can be found at https://www.playmeadowlands.events/beerfest-lineup

Must be 21+ to attend. Following all NJ ABC permit rules and conditions. 

 

 

KINDERGARTEN, PICK-6 HIGHLIGHT FRIDAY CARD AT BIG M

Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – When racing resumes at The Meadowlands Friday (Sept. 10) night at 6:20 p.m., bettors have much to look forward to as seven highly competitive $20,000 divisions of the Kindergarten Series for 2-year-olds of each sex and gait will create opportunities for players, especially those who like to play the 20-cent Pick-6.

The wager figures to have plenty of money in the pool, as last Saturday, the Pick-6 saw no winning tickets. That has created a carryover of $9,776 heading into Friday. The last time there was a P6 carryover, over $40,000 in “new money” was added to a carryover of $10,855, creating a total pool of almost $52,000. Those who correctly selected all six winners collected a handsome $2,720, even though the sequence featured three favorites and no horse who was sent to the gate at odds longer than 3-1.

The wager could prove to be a gem for players, as the pool could once again pay out more than it takes in.

How?

The carryover is not subject to the already low 15 per cent takeout, thus, if there is $60,000 in new money bet, the “rake” would be only $9,000. You would then add the remaining $51,000 to the carryover and get a total of just a hair under $61,000, approximately $1,000 more than the total wagered, which is a “negative takeout.”

The Pick-6 begins in race eight on the 13-race card and free past performances for all Meadowlands programs are available by going to playmeadowlands.com.

The Kindergarten Series will have legs three (Sept. 17), four (Sept. 24) and five (Nov. 6) before the finals and consolations will be contested on Nov. 13 for total purses that are estimated at $700,000.

$100,000 GUARANTEED: Each live racing night, both 50-cent Pick-4s will offer a guaranteed pool of $50,000. The wager is offered on races 6-9 and 10-13.

WHO WILL DRINK FROM THE CUP? Simulcast patrons who love high-powered, stakes-caliber harness racing will be following the action from Woodbine Mohawk Park on Saturday night with great interest, as the 7/8ths-mile oval hosts Canada’s richest harness race, the $1-million North America Cup for 3-year-olds on the pace.

The 13-race card begins at 7 p.m., with The Cup slated to go as race 11 at 10:42 p.m.

The Cup has a superb field of 10 with the top two favorites off good-looking elimination wins.

Perfect Sting scored in 1:49.4 for driver Dave Miller and trainer Joe Holloway last week. The second-place Meadowlands Pace finisher (as the favorite) will take on Bulldog Hanover, the Ontario Sire Stakes Gold standout, who won his elim in 1:49 for Jody Jamieson and John Darling.

Also on the card is the $392,000 Peaceful Way for 2-year-old filly trotters (featuring Venerable), $240,000 Goodtimes for 3-year-olds on the trot (where Fashion Frenzie takes on Dancinginthedark M), $425,000 Fan Hanover for 3-year-old pacing fillies (Fire Star Hanover vs. Hot Mess Express) and $640,000 Wellwood for trotting 2-year-olds (King Of The North vs. Periculum). Purses on the card total over $3.2 million.

After the stakes are over, bettors will still have much to look forward to as the 13^th and final race on the card will offer a $300,000 carryover on the 20-cent Hi-5, which will have an overflow field of 12, a mandatory payout and a pool likely to top $1 million.

Watch and wager on the action from Mohawk this Saturday and every night at The Big M in one of the best simulcast facilities in the country.

“The Grand Circuit should have an extraordinary 2021 fall showcase featuring the greatest stars of racing,” said Meadowlands’ Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Jason Settlemoir. “Following Saturday’s North America Cup program, the attention will turn to Delaware [Ohio] for the [Little Brown] Jug [on Sept. 23] before the Metro and Million back at Mohawk on Sept. 25.

“Many of the top stars you will see in Ontario and Delaware over the next two weeks will be back at The Meadowlands to compete for year-end honors later this fall. It’s very exciting for us with the Breeders Crown coming back to The Big M in October, followed by the Kindergarten Finals and Fall Final Four/TVG Finals Night in November. Information on these events are available on our website, playmeadowlands.com.”

LOW TAKEOUTS, HIGH EXPECTATIONS: Here are the popular Meadowlands’ wagers that offer a low 15 percent takeout on a nightly basis:

·         Race 1: 20-cent Pick-5

·         Race 3: 20-cent Survivor Pick-7

·         Race 6: 50-cent Pick4

·         Race 8: 20-cent Pick-6

·         Race 10: 50-cent Pick-4

·         Race 13: 10-cent Hi-5/Pentafecta

WE’RE IN THE MONEY: Last Saturday’s (Sept. 4) 20-cent Pick-5 got a handful of players off to good start as those with winning tickets walked away with $4,546.96 on the wager that spans races 1-5.

WHO DOES BROWER LIKE? For expert selections and analysis of every Big M card, check out track oddsmaker Dave Brower’s race reviews.

For Brower’s input, which is generally available 48 before every card, go to playmeadowlands.com, then click on the “handicapping” tab and go to “race reviews”.

HOW TO GET IN THE GAME: The best way to experience the rush of racing on the track and at the windows is to go to The Meadowlands, but for those who can’t make the trip, they can still tune in and get their action.

One of the best ways to watch what’s happening at The Big M – as well as all other races at venues around the country and the world – is to get a subscription to Roberts Television Network. All you need to do is go to rtn.tv for an affordable way to bring the action to your desktop, laptop, TV, smart phone or other device.

A good way to get your bets in is to use the Television Games Network (tvg.com) or your favorite Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) site.

TRICK OR TWEET: Everything Meadowlands is available by going on Twitter. You can check in with the Big M team for early changes, racing information and staff selections by going to @themeadowlands or #playbigm.

On race nights, stay in touch with Jessica Otten (@JessicaOtten1), Dave Brower (@eedoogie), Dave Little (@DaveLittleBigM), Ken Warkentin (@kenvoiceover) and Edison Hatter (@Edison_1999_).

CHECK OUT THE SHOW: On live race nights, tune in to Big M TV’s “Racing from the Meadowlands” pre-game presentation at 5:47 p.m., which is generally available everywhere Meadowlands races can be seen.

The show provides notes, news, features, staff selections and a look at that evening’s marquee races.

SATURDAYS ARE SPECIAL: The special events are plentiful during September at The Big M, where something super is in store every Saturday night. For further information on the following events, go to playmeadowlands.com:

·         Sept. 11: 5^th annual Beer Fest

·         Sept. 18: 6^th annual Burger Battle

·         Sept. 25: Chili Cook-Off

THE CHALLENGE IS ON! Owner Marvin Katz and the Libfeld/Katz Breeding Partnership started the Breeders Crown Charity Challenge in 2019 with hopes of strengthening community and racing relations.

The 2021 Challenge seeks to raise awareness of the positive contributions harness racing makes in the Tri-State area, especially New Jersey.

To date, over $400,000 has been donated to the following charities: New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund, Encourage Kids Foundation, Special Olympics New Jersey and the John Theuer Cancer Center.

For all information regarding the Breeders Crown Charity Challenge, go to this link: https://harnessracingupdate.com/2021/09/03/charity-begins-at-home/

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? The National Football League season kicks off Thursday (Sept. 9) night at 8:20 p.m. as the Dallas Cowboys head to Tampa Bay to take on seven-time champion Tom Brady and the Buccaneers.

Can’t make it to Florida? Then enjoy the game at The FanDuel Sportsbook, located inside the grandstand at The Meadowlands. The book is the top facility of its type in the country.

Like to bet? The Bucs are an 8½-point favorite at odds of -105. For those who prefer betting money lines, Tampa Bay is -390.

On Sunday, the New York Jets (+5 at -104, +198 money line) travel to Carolina to face former quarterback Sam Darnold and the Panthers at 1 p.m.

The Philadelphia Eagles (+3, +134) will be in Atlanta for a 1 p.m. kickoff with the Falcons while the Denver Broncos will come to East Rutherford for a 4 p.m. game with the New York Giants (+2½ at +104, +134).

Sports betting enthusiasts can get in on all the action at “The Book” Sunday-Friday from 10 a.m.-midnight and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 a.m. The cash counter is open from 10 a.m.-11 p.m.

CHIN CHIN HALL UPSETS IN BIG M FEATURE

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Despite 4-5 favorite Gangster Hanover having everything his way on the front end, Chin Chin Hall emerged from the rail after a four-hole trip and wore down the leader in deep stretch to take the featured $36,000 Open Trot at The Meadowlands Saturday night.

Gangster Hanover and George Napolitano Jr. set sail for the top from the rail in the abbreviated five-horse field (there was one scratch) and hit the quarter in a tepid :28.2. Off a 14¼-length score in 1:52.2 at Pocono Downs, things looked good for the Ake Svanstedt trainee, and they looked even better after the half was reached in :55.4 and three-quarters in 1:23.1, all while 8-5 second choice Lovedbythemasses, who twice has won this year in 1:50.2 (one of which was a win in the Vincennes Trot on Hambletonian Day) was trailing the field.

Driver Victor Kirby took his shot with Chin Chin Hall by vacating the rail on the far turn, and in workmanlike fashion, chipped away at the leader’s edge through the stretch on the way to a 1-length victory in a lifetime-best 1:51.1. The pocket-sitting Chaptiama outkicked Gangster Hanover for second.

A 5-year-old gelded son of Cash Hall-Canland Hall who is trained by Nifty Norman and owned by Oldford Racing and David McDuffee, Chin Chin Hall has now won 11 of 41 career starts and banked $633,720. As the 16-1 fourth choice in the betting, he paid $35.40 to win.

HANOVER ‘RUTHLESS’: Ruthless Hanover, the early season Graduate Series sensation, flaunted his class in the pacing feature, scoring in 1:48.4 in a non-winners of $17,500 conditioned event.

The 4-year-old gelded son of Somebeachsomewhere-Rockaroundthetrack had to get past a stubborn Ana Afreet N, the eventual second-place finisher, to lead at the half in :55. From there, the Tom Cancelliere trainee paced his back half in :53.4 to report home a 6-length winner. Vettel N was third.

Owned by John Cancelliere, Ruthless Hanover, who opened the year with three wins in four Graduate starts, paid $3.20 to win as the 3-5 public choice. He’s now won 10-of-22 lifetime outings, good for earnings of $205,968.

A LITTLE MORE: There were no winning tickets sold in the 20-cent Pick-6, setting up a carryover of $9,776 for next week. Those with five correct collected $171.52 … Free past performances for all Meadowlands cards are available by going to playmeadowlands.com. … Victor Kirby, Joe Bongiorno and Jim Marohn Jr. all recorded driving doubles. … All-source wagering totaled $2,166,478. … Racing resumes Friday at 6:20 p.m.

Hidden Assassin wins feature at Tioga

Hidden Assassin (Braxten Boyd) takes the $6600 featured pace at Tioga Downs on Saturday (September 4). 

Lori’s Rock Star (Wally Hennessey) went to the front and led to the first quarter in :27.0.  Hidden Assassin ($3.30) shot on by and led with a lap to go.  He used a :29.3 second quarter to lead to the half in :56.3.  Shrimp And Grits (Corey Braden) made a move first-over down the backstretch but just couldn’t gain as Hidden Assassin led to three-quarters in 1:24.3. 

As they made the turn for home Hidden Assassin open up on the field.  Lori’s Rock Star and Ey Cowboy (Jim Meittinnis) went all out on the chase but could only watch as Hidden Assasin won easily as he equaled his lifetime best of 1:52.4.  Lori’s Rock Start had to settle for second with Ey Cowboy collecting third place money. 

Hidden Assasin is a 3-year-old gelding by Art Major.  He is owned by Peter Karas Jr. and trained by Mike Deters.  It was his fifth win of 2021 and his sixth career victory. 

Wally Hennessey leads all drivers with 132 wins.  Braxten Boyd is second on the list with 74 victories.  Mike Merton has reached the winner’s circle 60 times this season for third best.  Marcus Miller (25) and Jody Jamieson (24) round out the top five. 

Mike Deters has trained the most winners this season with 51 wins.  Jim McDonald is second in wins with 29 tallies.  Gaston Lareau is third with 32 victories.  Kevin Reynolds Jr. (21) and Patti Harmon (20) round out the top five. 

Tioga Downs returns to Live racing on Monday (September 6) with an 8-race card starting at 1 p.m. 

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com. 

Bullville Jonathan takes feature at Vernon.

Bulville Jonathan (Leon Bailey) cruises to victory in the featured $5,000 Open 3 Pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday (September 4). 

Jericho Willie (Justin Huckabone) went to the front and led to the first quarter in :26.2.  He used a :28.3 second quarter to hit the half first in :55.0.  Boys Turn (Jimmy Whittemore) was the first to make a move going first-up heading down the backstretch.  He started to sputter and that forced a three-wide move from Bullville Jonathan ($6.90).  Jericho Willie held on to a slight lead to three-quarters in 1:23.3. 

As they made the turn for home Bullville Jonathan found another gear and made it a race for second.  He won in a lifetime best of 1:51.3.  Hopnroll Heaven (Dan Daley) came on late to finish second and was a nose better than third place finisher Sammy The Bull N (Dylan Huckabone-Miller). 

Bullville Jonathan is a 3-year-old gelding by Roll With Joe.  He is owned by Crevani Farms and trained by Stephen Crevani.  It was his sixth win of the season and of his career. 

Bailey, Justin Huckabone, and Truman Gale all hide driving doubles.  Jody Weidman had a training double. 

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday (September 10) and Saturday (September 11).  On September 11^th Vernon Downs with play host to the Excelsior A Finals.  Fireworks will follow live racing.  Post time for both nights is 6:10 p.m.   

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com