Chase The Gold tops Sire Stakes at Cal Expo

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo

 

Chase The Gold, who has recorded six straight wins at the meet; and the invading Alilthundadownunda, a winner of 17 of 23 starts last year, head the cast in Sunday night’s $20,000 California Sire Stakes for the 4-year-old pacing colts at Cal Expo.

 

The headliner is scheduled as the sixth event on a 12-race Watch and Wager LLC card gets underway at 5 p.m.

 

Chase The Gold is a son of Mystery Chase who carries the banner of Qks Racing, is conditioned by Quentin Schneider and will have James Kennedy handling the lines.

 

The ultra-sharp pacer accounted for the Donald Arnstine Final on December 3 for his second win during this streak, then made it a half-dozen in a row last week when he proved a punctual favorite in the Steve Wiseman Final in a powerful performance.

 

In the process, he established a new lifetime mark with the 1:52 4/5 clocking while showing the way home with two and three-quarter lengths to spare.

 

Alilthundadownunda is the wild card in the line-up for Set The Pace Racing LLC and driver/trainer Nick Roland as he makes his first start since early October after having an outstanding 3-year-old campaign in his native Minnesota.

 

Taking them on this weekend are Believe In Dragons, a second Schneider trainee; SD Watch Me Now, who gives Roland two looks at the outcome; the Bob Johnson-trained Arnie’s Army and Cenalta Firedragon from the Gordon Empey barn.

 

California Sire Stakes action in full swing

 

This week marks the return of a remodeled $385,000 Sire Stakes program that will feature a total of 20 events for the 3 and 4-year-old pacers

 

Under legislation that was passed in 2017, eligible horses can now come from California, Minnesota, Michigan, Alberta, Wisconsin, Iowa and Maine

 

There will be a total of four $20,000 contests for the 4-year-old fillies and a like number of $20,000 events for the 4-year-old males, with $50,000 finals for both divisions set for the week of April 15.

 

Meanwhile, on February 18 the 3-year-olds will get their initial Sire Stakes opportunity. The first round of events for those pacing colts and fillies will be worth $7,500 and will be followed by four $15,000 contests for each of those divisions.

 

                                               ***

 

A reminder there are three wagers offered here each night that come with a reduced 16 percent takeout rate.

 

They are the 20-cent early and late Pick 5 and the 20-cent Pick 4, with the latter featuring a $30,000-guaranteed gross pool on Fridays and a $20,000 guarantee on Sundays.

 

To give you some ideal of the value added, check out last Friday night’s late Pick 5 that saw wins by 4-5 shot Go With Flo, the 1-2 Hi Ho’s Little Rev and 7-5 Gorgeous For Real, but still returned a nifty $550 for each correct 20-cent ticket thanks in part to that reduced takeout rate.

 

 

Meadowlands Racetrack, FanDuel and Winners Bayonne Closed Today

East Rutherford, NJ - Due to the winter storm, the Meadowlands Racetrack, FanDuel Sportsbook and Winners Bayonne are closed today, Saturday, January 29^th for simulcasting, sports wagering and live racing.

 

All properties will re-open tomorrow, Sunday, January 30.

 

For racing and simulcasting information visit PlayMeadowlands.com 

Valentine Delight Celebrates Early At Buffalo

 by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway

 

HAMBURG, N.Y. --- Valentine's Day is more than two weeks away but Valentine Delight celebrated it early by stunning the field in the $12,500 Open II-II Handicap Pace for the fillies and mares on Wednesday night (Jan. 26) at Buffalo Raceway.

 

Trained and driven by Shawn McDonough, Valentine Delight, now a winner in four of her last five appearances, returned a hefty $17.80 in the six-horse field. She tracked down Pretty Blue Angel (Drew Monti) while the tempo-setting Lady London (Ray Fisher Jr.) held on for third.

 

It was a great start to the season for McDonough as he finished the night with a driving and training triple. He also scored and conditioned Tuscon Breeze ($17.20) in the opener and Falcon's Luke $16.60 in the sixth.

 

In the feature, Lady London showed the way through the opening three panels with splits of :29.0, :58.4 and 1:28.4. Valentine Delight sat back patiently and began to make progress starting at the three-quarter marker, sitting in perfect position for the stretch run.

 

In the stretch, Pretty Blue Angel was making her in the passing lane while Lady London was sandwiched in between with Valentine Delight. But the drive to the finish line belonged to Valentine Delight as she stopped the timer in 1:58.2 over the good track, beating Pretty Blue Angel by a half length.

 

Owned by the Crazy Parrot Farm LLC, it was the second victory in as many tries this season for the 5-year-old mare Valentine Delight (Bettor's Delight-Lady Valentine). The win moved her earnings to $11,550 and $52,007 lifetime.

 

Monti completed the evening with a driving triple while Joe Skowyra notched two training wins.

 

Racing will continue on Saturday evening at 6 p.m. with an 8-race program scheduled.

 

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

 

LIKELY NEGATIVE TAKEOUT A BIG PICK-6 POSITIVE AT BIG M

Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Fans of the 20-cent Pick-6 at The Meadowlands will be out in force Friday (Jan. 28) night hoping to turn a negative into a positive when The Big M kicks off its 26-race weekend of live action at 6:20 p.m.

Last Saturday (Jan. 22), for a second straight race card, the Pick-6 failed to yield a winning ticket, so when racing resumes, there will be a carryover of $14,033 up for grabs. Those who had five correct were paid $672.72.

Pick-6 carryovers can create pools where the bettor gets incredible value. Take what would transpire this Friday, for instance. If $80,000 in “new money” is poured into the pool, there will be a “negative takeout”, meaning bettors with all six winners on their tickets will get back more than what’s wagered that night.

That $80,000 is subject to the low 15 percent takeout, which means $12,000 goes back to the operator, leaving $68,000. The carryover is not subject to the “rake”, so the total pool would be $82,033, which creates a “negative takeout”, where the return to players is more than what is bet live. In addition, the 20-cent minimum bet allows players to “spread” their tickets with multiple combinations, increasing their chances of hitting big.

The Pick-6 takes place on races eight through 13 and free past performances for every race of every Meadowlands race card are available by going to playmeadowlands.com.

GINGRAS THE GREAT: Harness racing’s hottest hands belong to Yannick Gingras, as the 42-year-old has left a path of destruction through The Meadowlands’ driver colony in the early stages of 2022.

The Hall of Fame bound pilot won six times on the Saturday night card at The Big M – including a victory in the feature with Covered Bridge – to up his driver-colony leading win total to 24. Joe Bongiorno is a distant second with 13.

Gingras has been remarkably consistent, winning at least three races on each of the six race cards conducted this year.

“It’s been horsepower,” said Gingras of his wicked winter. “Ronnie [Burke] is racing a little more this [winter] than last year and the horses are in the right spot. I don’t feel any sharper, honestly. I don’t get too up or down. I feel good right now. It’s just the way the cards are rolling.”

Remarkably, only one of “The Green Hornet’s” Saturday winners went off as the favorite.

LIVE RACING SCHEDULE: Racing at The Big M is conducted on a Friday-Saturday basis and has a first-race post time of 6:20 p.m.

The track’s live “Racing from The Meadowlands” pregame show kicks off nightly at 5:47 p.m.

OTTEN TO HOST: Big M TV’s Jessica Otten will take a turn in the host’s chair this Friday, and on the pregame show, she’ll interview Lauren Harmon during the track’s popular “In the Sulky” segment, which begins at approximately 5:50 p.m.

Harmon is a native of Michigan who grew up in a racing family – her dad Don Harmon and stepmother Krista Williams Harmon have a stable in the Midwest. Lauren, the niece of longtime Big M horseman Rob Harmon, is second trainer at thestable.ca in Ohio and drives in amateur events there.

WEATHER ALERT: With the possibility of bad weather hitting the area, those who want to make sure that there is live racing or simulcasting at The Meadowlands should check out the track’s website (playmeadowlands.com) or call 201-THE-BIGM before heading to the track.

BIG POOLS, SMALL TAKEOUTS: The Meadowlands is the industry’s handle leader, and much of the reason why is many of the bets the mile oval offers feature a low takeout of 15 percent.

Here is a rundown of those wagers for the upcoming weekend:

·         Race 1: 20-cent Pick-5

·         Race 3: 20-cent Survivor Pick-7

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

·         Race 8: 20-cent Pick-6

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

·         Race 13: 10-cent Pentafecta/Hi-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 hours before every card, go to playmeadowlands.com, then click on the “handicapping” tab and go to “race reviews”.

DRINK FROM THE CUP: The $3 million Pegasus World Cup Invitational takes place Saturday at Gulfstream Park, and if you aren’t planning to hop on a plane and head to Florida in time for the race, the place to watch and wager is The Meadowlands in one of the leading simulcast facilities in the country.

Defending champion Knicks Go (6-5 on the morning line) and primary foe Life Is Good (7-5) have drawn post positions one and four, respectively, in the nine-horse field.

The program also features the $1 million Pegasus World Turf Cup and $500,000 Pegasus World Cup Filly and Mare Turf.

Saturday’s program at Gulfstream starts at 11:30 a.m. Post time for the World Cup – the last of 12 races on the card – is 5:34 p.m.

WARM UP WHEN IT’S CHILI: One of the more popular promotions at the track is the “Chili Cook-Off”, which has been rescheduled from its original Jan. 29 and will now take place on Feb. 5. Patrons can walk around and taste samples, or, if you have a chili recipe, come on out and participate. You might walk away with the $1,000 grand prize.

For more information, go to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/2022-meadowlands-winter-chili-cook-off/

GET ON TWITTER: 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 Otten (@JessicaOtten1), Brower (@eedoogie), Dave Little (@DaveLittleBigM), Ken Warkentin (@kenvoiceover), Shades (@ShadesOnRacing) and Edison Hatter (@Edison_1999_).

CONFERENCE TITLE TIME: The National Football League playoffs are down to the final four teams, and those who want to watch and wager on the action can do so inside the FanDuel Sportsbook, located inside the grandstand at The Meadowlands.

Both semifinal games take place Sunday (Jan. 30), and at 3 p.m., the Cincinnati Bengals (+275 on the money line) travel to Kansas City to take on the Chiefs (-350), who are a 7-point favorite in the AFC matchup. The under/over is 54½.

The late game – which kicks off at 6:40 p.m. – has the Los Angeles Rams (-176), a 3½-point favorite, taking on the visiting San Francisco 49ers (+148) in the NFC tilt. The under/over is 45½.

Hours for the book are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-1 a.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-2 a.m.; Saturday 7 a.m.-2 a.m. and Sunday 8 a.m.-12 a.m.

Valentine Delight Celebrates Early At Buffalo

by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway

 

HAMBURG, N.Y. --- Valentine's Day is more than two weeks away but Valentine Delight celebrated it early by stunning the field in the $12,500 Open II-II Handicap Pace for the fillies and mares on Wednesday night (Jan. 26) at Buffalo Raceway.

 

Trained and driven by Shawn McDonough, Valentine Delight, now a winner in four of her last five appearances, returned a hefty $17.80 in the six-horse field. She tracked down Pretty Blue Angel (Drew Monti) while the tempo-setting Lady London (Ray Fisher Jr.) held on for third.

 

It was a great start to the season for McDonough as he finished the night with a driving and training triple. He also scored and conditioned Tuscon Breeze ($17.20) in the opener and Falcon's Luke $16.60 in the sixth.

 

In the feature, Lady London showed the way through the opening three panels with splits of :29.0, :58.4 and 1:28.4. Valentine Delight sat back patiently and began to make progress starting at the three-quarter marker, sitting in perfect position for the stretch run.

 

In the stretch, Pretty Blue Angel was making her in the passing lane while Lady London was sandwiched in between with Valentine Delight. But the drive to the finish line belonged to Valentine Delight as she stopped the timer in 1:58.2 over the good track, beating Pretty Blue Angel by a half length.

 

Owned by the Crazy Parrot Farm LLC, it was the second victory in as many tries this season for the 5-year-old mare Valentine Delight (Bettor's Delight-Lady Valentine). The win moved her earnings to $11,550 and $52,007 lifetime.

 

Monti completed the evening with a driving triple while Joe Skowyra notched two training wins.

 

Racing will continue on Saturday evening at 6 p.m. with an 8-race program scheduled.

 

New Cal Sire Stakes program in full swing

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo Harness 

The remodeled $385,000 California Sire Stakes program kicks off this week at Cal Expo with a pair of $20,000 events for the 4-year-old pacing colts and fillies.

Under legislation passed in 2017, the Sire Stakes events are now open to eligible performers from California, Michigan, Minnesota, Maine, Alberta, Wisconsin and Iowa.

There will be four $20,000 events for the 4-year-old filly and colt pacers, with the $50,000 finals set for the week of April 15.

The 3-year-old Sire Stakes program is set to begin on February 18. There will be a $7,500 contest followed by four $15,000 races for those filly and colt pacers.

For more information visit calsired.chhaonline.com

 

Ortiz, Alempijevic, Fossli and Barre Qualify for WHHC Final

Jaime Ortiz, of Staten Island, NY, captured the January 22^nd World Harness Handicapping Championship Qualifier at the Meadowlands Racetrack. 

 

Ortiz cashed in big on his first contest wager, a $100 win wager on Dina Bolt N, earning $580 and catapulting to the top of the leaderboard.  He cashed in on four more of his wagers solidifying his win, finishing with $748 and earning a $1,000 seat into the World Harness Handicapping Final.

 

William Alempijevic, a veteran WHHC participant, Karen Fossli, of Yorktown, NY, and Joe Barre of Waretown, NJ, also qualified into the WHHC Final with their second, third and fourth place finishes. 

 

The $400 Qualifier required contestants to place at least ten $20 minimum win, place, and/or show wagers on Meadowlands races. 

The World Harness Handicapping Championship is a one-day tournament [September 10, 2022]. Players that did not earn a seat through a qualifying event can directly buy-in for $1,000.  The $1,000 entry fee includes a $400 bankroll, with the remaining $600 going to the prize pool.  The WHHC contest format requires players to bet 10 races: their choice of seven Meadowlands races, plus three designated mandatory races.  Players keep all pari-mutuel winnings.  Prize payouts are to the Top 10. 

For more information on how to become a WHHC partner outlet or sponsor, contact Rachel Ryan, Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment (raryan@playmeadowlands.com) or 201-842-5015. 

The next onsite WHHC Qualifier is Saturday, February 19.  Contest details can be found at https://playmeadowlands.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/2022-February-WHHC-qualifier.pdf

Meadowlands Chili Cook-Off Moved to February 5

Meadowlands Chili Cook-off with $2,850 in Prize Money

 

Meadowlands Racetrack

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ (January 25, 2022) – Due to the potential Nor’easter forecasted to hit the Northeast this weekend, the Meadowlands Chili Cook-Off Winter Edition has been rescheduled to Saturday, February 5^th. 

 

All rules, regulations and timing will remain the same for February 5^th. 

 

As of January 25^th, 20 contestants are registered to compete for the $1,000 Traditional Red grand prize while 15 contestants are entered in the Salsa category, with a $500 grand prize.  Both grand prize winners will earn a spot in the International Chili Society’s Annual World Championship Chili Cook-off in their categories.

 

Those interested in participating can register at https://chilicookoff.com/cookoffs/list

 

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

* $1,000 Grand Prize plus a spot in the ICS's World Championship Traditional Red Chili Cook-off 
* $500 - 2nd
* $250 - 3rd 

Salsa:

* $500 Grand Prize plus a spot in the ICS's World Championship Salsa Category 
* $250 - 2nd
* $100 - 3rd 

People’s Choice:

* $250 

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.  Fan favorite voting begins 7 pm; voting tickets will be 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 https://playmeadowlands.com/event/2022-meadowlands-winter-chili-cook-off/

Buffalo Raceway Set For Wednesday Opener

 by Brian J. Mazurek, for Buffalo Raceway

HAMBURG, N.Y. --- "It's great that we've been able to plan the 2022 season knowing that patrons will be coming back to the track," said Buffalo Raceway Assistant General Manager Jon Cramer as the half mile oval located at the Erie County Fairgrounds begins its 66-day live harness racing meet on Wednesday evening (Jan. 26) at 6 p.m. with an eight race program set.

"Paige Usiak has been hired full time as our Marketing Coordinator along with being our Race Host and she has been working on some things that I think patrons are going to like throughout the season," Cramer added.

Opening night will feature a $3,000 guaranteed Pick-5 pool thanks to the United States Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program, the Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association and Buffalo Raceway. The sequence begins in the second race.

The main event on Wednesday's opening card will have a six horse field battling in the $12,500 Open II-III Pace for the filly and mares. Fade To Gold is tabbed the 8-5 morning line choice with Denny Bucceri scheduled to drive.

Gerry Sarama, the leading trainer at Buffalo Raceway in 2021 with 63 wins, looks to get off to a fast start in 2022 as he will send five to the gate on the program.

Kevin Cummings, who was second in driving victories last year with 77, will see plenty of action to begin the campaign as he is slated to drive in all eight events.

The first Saturday (Jan. 29) card will see the return of the Lucky Exacta contest. All fans will receive a limited edition, etched, frosted Buffalo Raceway pint glass which will have an exacta combination. Should that exacta come in between races three through ten, fans will be able to spin the prize wheel with a chance to win anywhere from $10 to $100 in free wagers on the last race of the evening.

The betting format will remain the same as in 2021 with win, place, show, exacta, trifecta and superfecta wagering along with three daily doubles, a Pick 3 and Pick 4 to go along with the previously mentioned Pick 5.

Patrons can now enjoy bistro style food in the clubhouse at Buffalo Raceway beginning on Saturday night. All meals will be $13,99 and choices will include such items as fried chicken, Italian sausage, pulled pork and turkey dinners. Wednesdays, food will be served at the bar.

"Delaware North has stepped up to provide good food and has added craft beer in the bar," Cramer stated. "A lot of people have been asking for the craft beer and we are now able to provide it."

The New York Sire Stakes and Excelsior Series will also return this season with all eight divisions to be contested on Wednesday nights beginning on May 18. The 3-year-old colt trotters take center stage in the first evening of NYSS competition. The 2-year-old colt pacers conclude the stakes action on July 13.

Buffalo Raceway will conduct live racing on Wednesdays and Saturdays until April with 6 p.m. post times. The track will have Friday racing beginning on April 1 with a 6 p.m. start time. 

Beginning on Wednesday, April 6, Buffalo Raceway will shift all of its starting times to 1:30 p.m. until closing day on July 16. The track will be dark on Friday, June 19 and Friday, June 24 as special Sunday matinees will be held on June 19 and 26 with a 1:30 p.m. post.

"We thought we'd try something new," Cramer said of the matinee programs beginning in April. "We've seen other tracks like The Meadows and Saratoga have success with the afternoon posts so we thought we'd give it a try. We think most people will like it."

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

GINGRAS WINS 6, INCLUDING FEATURE, AT BIG M

By Dave Little, Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Thus far in 2022, it’s been all Yannick Gingras, all the time at The Meadowlands.

The Hall of Fame bound pilot won six times on the Saturday night card at The Big M – including a victory in the feature with Covered Bridge – to up his driver-colony leading win total to 24. Joe Bongiorno is a distant second with 13.

Gingras has been remarkably consistent, winning at least three races on each of the six race cards conducted this year.

“It’s been horsepower,” said Gingras of his wicked start to the new year. “[Trainer] Ronnie [Burke] is racing a little more this [winter] than last year and the horses are in the right spot. I don’t feel any sharper, honestly. I don’t get too up or down. I feel good right now. It’s just the way the cards are rolling.”

For someone raised in Quebec, you’d think the cold wouldn’t bother him, but Gingras is not into it. “I don’t like the winter. I’m not a huge fan of the cold. But at The Meadowlands, they treat us right. We’re not out there too long. Things are good.”

Gingras scored with Force N Fury, who paid $11.00 in the third race; Rockapelo, $4.40 in the sixth; Twin B Tuffenuff, $7.60 in the eighth; Bettors Donttell, $11.60 in the 10^th; National Sport, $7.20 in the 13^th; and Covered Bridge, $8.40 in the 14^th.

Remarkably, only one of “The Green Hornet’s” winners went off as the favorite.

In the featured $31,500 Preferred for pacers, Covered Bridge was coming into the race off a seventh-place finish a week ago at odds of 11-1 facing the same stock, but the betting public bet the sizzling pilot down to 3-1 and after following a live tow from Sonny Weaver N, rolled by in deep stretch to record a 1½-length win over My Pal Joe in a season’s-best equaling 1:49.

“Tonight, things worked out better than last week,” said Gingras. “This horse, he’s just a sweetheart. He does everything right. It didn’t surprise me how he kicked home. All you have to do is put him in the right spot.”

Sure, but having the hottest driver in the sport calling the shots didn’t hurt.

DOUBLE PICK-6 CARRYOVER: For a second straight race card, the 20-cent Pick-6 failed to yield a winning ticket, so when racing resumes, there will be a carryover of $14,033 up for grabs. Those who had five correct were paid $672.72.

Free past performances for every race of every Meadowlands card are available by going to playmeadowlands.com.

A LITTLE MORE: Ron Burke trained four to victory lane – all were guided by Gingras – and sits atop the trainer standings with 11 victories. … Corey Callahan drove three winners on the card, including JL Cruze, who became the fastest trotter of 2022 when he stopped the clock in 1:52 while taking a non-winners of $14,000 as the 2-5 favorite. The lifetime earner of over $1.65 million is likely on his way back to the Preferred ranks. … All-source handle totaled $2,573,896. … Racing resumes Friday at 6:20 p.m.

Chase The Gold heads Steve Wiseman Pace

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo Harness

 

Chase The Gold, who has rattled off five straight victories at this meet, looks to keep the streak alive as he tops the cast in Sunday night’s $12,500 Steve Wiseman Pace.

 

The main event headlines an 11-race card under the Watch and Wager LLC banner with first post set for 4:55 p.m. Th co-feature is a $7,700 Open Trot that rematches the dynamic duo of Mandeville, Pridecrest and Silverhill Volo.

 

Chase The Gold is a 4-year-old son of Mystery Chase who is owned by Qks Racing, takes his lessons from Quentin Schneider and will be handled by James Kennedy while leaving from the cozy rail slot in the field of seven.

 

During the course of his streak, Chase The Gold has posted a six and a quarter length romp in the Donald Arnstine Final on December 3 and set a new lifetime mark of 1:54 1/5 in winning last week’s Wiseman elimination/prep.

 

Spectacular Sunset was the runner-up in that latter event as the 7-5 favorite and will be looking for some revenge this weekend after carving out most of the fractions and getting beat a length by Chase The Gold.

 

The 4-year-old son of Artspeak competes for Set The Pace Racing LLC and is reined and trained by Nick Roland. He started off this meet with five straight victories while steadily working his way up the class ladder.

 

Completing the field are Major Ted, Urkillinmesmalls, Bobs Time, The Dog Won’t Hunt and River Lassena.

 

Race honors memory of Steve Wiseman

 

Sunday night’s feature is named for longtime California horseman Steve Wiseman, who passed away last March at the age of 53.

 

Wiseman was a third-generation harness horseman, as his grandfather drove the starting gate in British Columbia and his father Raleigh was a respected horseman in both Canada and the United States.

Steve came to California as a teenager and not long after that went to work with Tim and Denise Maier, followed by a stint with the Jim Perez stable. He eventually went to Chicago where he was second trainer to Joe Anderson, who encouraged him to strike out of his own.

It was at this point that Wiseman returned to California to start his stable. Soon after he met his wife of 21 years, Kathie Plested, and they had their daugher Tyler, now 21.

Steve and Kathie had made Sacramento their home while operating one of the largest stables at Cal Expo in the fall and winter and Running Aces in Minnesota in the spring and summer with a number of driving and training titles to show for those efforts.

Steve was on the board of directors of the CHHA, a member of the California Hall of Fame committee and the drivers track committee.

Steve’s favorite performers included Magna Kay, Cashimir Dow Jones, Rhianna Seelster and Silverlode, the latter breaking the North American record for a trotter at mile and a half with a 2:57 2/5 victory here at Cal Expo in the Joe Lighthill Memorial.

“Steve Wiseman was the consummate horseman,” said Steve and Vickie Desomer. “Professional and friendly whether training or driving or working around the barn.  When we raced coupled entries, it was always our hope and good fortune when Stevie consented to drive for us.  He will be sorely missed as he remained one of the horsemen that gave our industry a good name.  Rest in peace Stevie.”

From Tim and Denise Maier: “We have always considered Steve part of our family.  It was a pleasure to see the amazing man he became. The paddock at Running Aces will not be the same without him. I hope God appreciates his humor.”

“Horse owners will tell you about the money they are making or losing, but after 50 years, this small owner will admit, it’s about the joy of harness racing,” said Barbara Arnstine. “In creating that joy, Steve Wiseman was rightly named the Magician. I’ve had my worst mare and one of my best in his barn over the years, and thanks to his magic, they were both wonderful experiences.”

 

 

 

USHWA'S COMMUNICATIONS AWARDS ANNOUNCED

 Debbie Little and Gordon Waterstone were named winners of the 2020/2021 John Hervey Awards for excellence in harness racing journalism while Michael Burns Jr. and Clive Cohen were named recipients of the George Smallsreed Awards for photography and Woodbine Entertainment Group was selected winner of the Sam McKee Award for broadcasting, the U.S. Harness Writers Association announced Friday.

The winners will be recognized at the Dan Patch Awards banquet Feb. 20 at Rosen Shingle Creek resort in Orlando, Fla. Meadowlands Racetrack Chairman Jeffrey Gural is continuing his longstanding sponsorship of the awards by providing banquet tickets for the winners.

Little won in the feature writing category for her story, “The Legend of Walter Case Jr.,” which appeared in the March 2020 issue of TROT Magazine. To read the story, click here. It is Little’s first Hervey Award.

Waterstone won in the news/commentary division for his column, “First Over: Being Black in Harness Racing,” which appeared in the June 19, 2020, edition of HarnessRacing Weekend Preview. To access the issue, with the column on page seven, click here. It is Waterstone’s second Hervey Award in the category and third overall.

Honorable mentions in the writing categories went to Dave Briggs for “Judgment Day is Upon Us,” March 13, 2020, in Harness Racing Update (HRU); Derick Giwner for “Those Wealthy Pennsylvania Horse Owners,” Feb. 11, 2021, DRF Harness Digest; Jessica Hallett for “From Pompano to Tioga and Back During Pandemic,” Dec. 18, 2020, Harnesslink.com; Bob Heyden for “Hey, Harness Racing: Grandma Died,” May 31, 2020, HRU; James Platz for “The Greatest Gift,” Dec. 20, 2020, HRU; and Jeff Robillard for “Redwood Candid on Past Addiction Issues,” July 12, 2021, Horse Racing Alberta website.

The writing categories were judged by a panel consisting of sports writer Lou Monaco of Gambling.com, Boston Globe Media Sports Editor Matt Pepin, retired longtime sports writer and two-time Hervey Award winner Brad Schmaltz, and Delaware State News Executive Editor and former harness writer Andrew West.

In the Smallsreed competitions, Burns won in the race/action category for his photograph, “Behind the Gate,” which appeared Nov. 12, 2021, on the Woodbine Mohawk Park website. Burns is a three-time Smallsreed winner.

Cohen won in the feature category for his photograph, “Fall Fog,” which appeared Oct. 7, 2021, on the Woodbine Facebook and Instagram pages. It is Cohen’s third Smallsreed honor.

Honorable mention went to Amada Stephens.

Judges for the photography categories were racetrack and newspaper photographer Bill Denver and former harness racing groom and longtime newspaper/magazine photographer Phil McAuliffe.

In the McKee competition, Woodbine Entertainment Group broadcast department was honored for its story “Flounder,” which appeared Sept. 11, 2021, during the Pepsi North America Cup broadcast on the TSN television network. The piece highlighted the dedication and commitment of those working at Winbak Farm in Ontario and the story of one special foal.

The producer was Tammy Gillanders, director of photography was David Syrie, Rob Deluca and Paulo Macedo, and the editor was Lisa Germaney. The win gave WEG its fifth award in the broadcast division. To watch the piece, click here.

Honorable mentions went to Heather Vitale’s feature on the horse Hyway Marcus, which aired May 9, 2021, on Post Time, and COSA-TV’s coverage of last October’s Breeders Crown, which appeared on industry media platforms in the U.S. and Canada.

Entries for the Sam McKee Award were judged by racing producer Tom Dawson, a former winner in the broadcasting division.

For more information about the Dan Patch Awards banquet, visit the U.S. Harness Writers Association’s website here.

Its Pointless, Rockin With Lou featured at Cal Expo

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo

 

A $7,000 Open Pace matching Its Pointless and A Major Omen and a $6,500 Distaff Open Pace headed by Rockin With Lou share the spotlight at Cal Expo Friday night.

 

There will be 10 races presented by Watch and Wager LLC and the action gets underway at 6:45 p.m.

 

Its Pointless will be gunning for his third straight victory in the Open Pace for the team of owner Mark Anderson, trainer Gordie Graham and pilot James Kennedy. The Kent’s On Nuke homebred comes into this assignment having won 16 of his 25 trips to the post.

 

After missing by narrow margins to A Major Omen in the Dave Goldschmidt and an Open, Its Pointless has posted an Open II score and then got some revenge on his arch-rival last week as he flew home in :26 2/5 to prevail by a neck over that pacesetter.

 

A Major Omen has been outstanding at this meet for owner/driver/trainer Gerry Longo since arriving from Kentucky. The 6-year-old son of Art Major has clicked in 17 of 73 starts with a 1:49 4/5 mark set two years ago at the Meadowlands and is closing in on the $200,000 earnings plateau.

 

A Major Omen began the meet with three straight scores, including a game decision in the aforementioned Goldschmidt and then added a pair of Open victories. In last week’s clash at the head of the class, he set all the pace and was just collared by Its Pointless in that 1:52 3/5 mile.

 

Meanwhile, Rockin With Lou looms large for owner/driver/trainer Longo in the co-feature as she looks to take down her third straight at the top rung. The daughter of Sweet Lou established a new career standard when she toured the oval in 1:52 3/5 two weeks ago.

 

Tink And Tiger refuses to act his age

 

Tink And Tiger apparently plans to make his final year of racing count, as the 14-year-old pacer comes into this week’s action having posed for pictures following three of his last four starts.

 

Rick Bertand owns and trains the son of Art Major with Nick Roland in the bike for each of those victories, the most recent coming despite the fact that Tink And Tiger was parked the mile and forced three wide around poor cover on the final bend.

 

It didn’t matter, as he took aim on the leaders at the top of the stretch and went on to a two-length victory as the 3-5 choice. It was the 41^st win from 330 starts for this warrior who set his 1:49 3/5 mark at Balmoral from nine years ago and has over $330,000 earnings.

 

“I bought him last year,” Bertrand related after last Friday night’s score. “He wasn’t racing well and the plan was to sell him to a friend of mine in Minnesota Amy Remick as a retired standardbred.”

 

Apparently Tink and Tiger had other ideas and convinced Rick to put him back in the game. “He came around this summer and started racing a lot better, so we prolonged his retirement.

 

“I think he decided he wanted to race another year and then do the mandatory retirement thing. He’s a perfect horse at the barn and I think he likes to be around the younger ones in the turnout pen because it makes him feel young again.”

 

It appears as though winning races is another thing that isn’t getting old for this guy.

 

LOOKING FOR ACTION THIS WEEKEND? HEAD TO THE BIG M

Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – For those craving action this weekend, The Meadowlands will be the center of the universe in the greater metropolitan area with a plethora of options for players, with live harness action on Friday and Saturday at 6:20 p.m., the first World Harness Handicapping Championship Qualifier and betting that will be at a fever pitch in the track’s FanDuel Sportsbook.

Friday (Jan. 21) night will serve as the appetizer to Saturday’s (Jan. 22) symphony of wagering opportunities as the NFL Playoffs hit high gear while the WHHC qualifier will offer a $10,000 total prize pool (based on 50 entrants) with four seats in the Sept. 10 WHHC Final up for grabs.

The Big M will be the place many of the top players on the east coast will head as they try to qualify for the final and make some big green in the tournament that offers a live wagering format.

For complete WHHC information, go to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/2022-january-400-whhc-qualifier/

This weekend, the live harness action will feature a pair of 15-race programs.

The Friday night Preferred for trotters features a pair of Dover Downs shippers who get to renew their rivalry about 140 miles north of that five-eighths-mile track as Warrior One takes on Crystal Fashion.

The last time the pair hooked up, Warrior One held on by a nose in 1:53, holding off the pocket-sitting Crystal Fashion, who, unlike his main foe, has a Meadowlands tightener under his belt since, a fifth-place finish to repeat winner Get Legs last week.

Saturday night’s Preferred for pacers features Backstreet Shadow, who seeks a second straight score in the weekly feature, after a 1:50.2 wire-to-wire win on a night where the real feel temperature was 2 degrees.

Round two of the NFL Playoffs begin on Saturday when the Tennessee Titans – a 3½-point favorite – host the Cincinnati Bengals at 4:30 p.m. The Titans are -180 on the money line and the under/over is 47.

In the late game, the San Francisco 49ers travel to Green Bay where the Packers are a 5½-point favorite in a game that kicks off at 8:15 p.m. Green Bay is -245 on the money line and the under/over is 47.

The FanDuel Sportsbook is one of the best in the country and is located inside the grandstand at The Big M. Hours for the book are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-1 a.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-2 a.m.; Saturday 7 a.m.-2 a.m. and Sunday 8 a.m.-12 a.m.

LIVE RACING SCHEDULE: Racing at The Big M is conducted on a Friday-Saturday basis and has a first-race post time of 6:20 p.m.

The track’s live “Racing from The Meadowlands” pre-game show kicks off nightly at 5:47 p.m.

GET ON TWITTER: 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), Shades (@ShadesOnRacing) and Edison Hatter (@Edison_1999_).

FREE PROGRAMS: Free past performances for every race of every Meadowlands program are available 48 hours before a given card. To access the no-cost official program pages, go to playmeadowlands.com.

BIG POOLS, SMALL TAKEOUTS: The Meadowlands is the industry’s handle leader, and much of the reason why is many of the bets the mile oval offers feature a low takeout of 15 percent.

Here is a rundown of those wagers for the upcoming weekend:

·         Race 1: 20-cent Pick-5

·         Race 3: 20-cent Survivor Pick-7

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

·         Race 8: 20-cent Pick-6

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

·         Race 15: 10-cent Pentafecta/Hi-5

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

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

WARM UP WHEN IT’S CHILI: One of the more popular promotions at the track is the “Chili Cook-Off”, which takes place on Saturday, Jan. 29. Patrons can walk around and taste samples, or, if you have a chili recipe, come on out and participate. You might walk away with the $1,000 grand prize.

For more information, go to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/2022-meadowlands-winter-chili-cook-off/

Qualify for the World Harness Handicapping Championship this Saturday

 

Meadowlands Racetrack

East Rutherford, NJ - Four spots are up for grabs this Saturday in Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment’s $400 January Qualifier.  The qualifier has a $400 total fee ($200 entry plus a $100 real-money bankroll).  The format requires players to bet a minimum of $20 Win, Place and/or Show wagers on 10 Meadowlands races.   Players can wager on more than 10 races if they so desire.   Players can register on-site Saturday up until 6:20 pm. The contest brochure can be downloaded here.

Other Meadowlands Onsite Qualifiers are:

• Saturday, February 19, 2022  - $200 contest with top 2 finishers winning WHHC Final seats
• Saturday, March 12, 2022 - $200 contest with top 2 finishers winning WHHC Final seats
• Saturday, April 30, 2022 - $400 contest with top 4 finishers winning WHHC Final seats
• Saturday, May 28, 2022 – Free Contest with winner earning WHHC Final seat
• Thursday, July 7, 2022 - $100 contest with winner earning WHHC Final seat

The World Harness Handicapping Championship Final is scheduled for Saturday, September 10, 2022 at Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment.

For more information on how to become a WHHC partner outlet or sponsor, contact Rachel Ryan, Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment (raryan@playmeadowlands.com) or 201-842-5015.

Monticello Raceway Cancels Racing on Monday, January 17

 

Monticello, N.Y. – Due to the timing and travel impact of Winter Storm Izzy, and concern for the safety of all participants, live racing has been cancelled for Monday, January 17 at Monticello Raceway.

 

Please note that Monday’s draw will be moved to Tuesday.

GINGRAS AND FORD OFF TO QUICK 2022 STARTS AT BIG M

Meadowlands Media Relations

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Two horsemen stood out in front of the rest during the first weekend of racing at The Meadowlands in 2022 as driver Yannick Gingras recorded eight winners over the course of Jan. 7-8 while trainer Mark Ford schooled four to victory lane.

Gingras, who will be inducted into harness racing’s Hall of Fame in July, was the bettors’ best friend, winning at a 32 percent clip. His three seconds and five thirds gave him a total of 16 on-the-board finishes from 25 starts, meaning that the 42-year-old Quebec native “hit the ticket” 64 percent of the time.

His Return On Investment (ROI) was plus 18 percent.

Heading into Friday’s card, Gingras thought he might have some success. He was right, hitting victory lane five times.

“I had some power and they were ready to race,” said Gingras.

And what’s ahead for this season?

“I’m looking forward to staying healthy and having a good 2022,” said Gingras. “Atlanta is coming back. And Branded By Lindy. There’s many others I’m looking forward to driving. This Is The Plan. And Blue Diamond Eyes, who finished [2021] strong.”

Ford’s four scores came from just five starts, and his lone non-winner came in third, so his win (80) and in-the-money (100) percentages were both remarkable.

His ROI was off the charts at plus 426 percent, as his winners returned $6.60, $17.20, $16.80 and $12.20 to win. Gingras drove all but one of Ford’s winner’s circle visitors.

“Every little bit helps. It’s not the first time that’s happened, you know,” joked Ford, with his tongue firmly in cheek.

On a more serious note, the President of the Standardbred Breeders & Owners Association of New Jersey for the last seven years is pleased with the current harness racing environment in the Garden State.

“There have been a lot of ups and downs over the last four or five years,” said Ford. “We have finally righted the ship and it seems like better times are ahead. Getting a piece of the sports wagering and the appropriation from the state have us going well now.

“[Meadowlands Chairman and Chief Executive Officer] Jeff Gural, some people like him, some don’t, but the proof is in the pudding. He has gone after the drug problem and bettors have a good feeling that they are getting a better shake when they go to The Meadowlands.”

THE SKED: Racing at The Big M is conducted on a Friday-Saturday basis and has a first-race post time of 6:20 p.m.

The track’s live “Racing from The Meadowlands” pre-game show kicks off nightly at 5:37 p.m.

CLIMB IN THE SULKY: There will be some special guests on the track’s “In the Sulky” pre-game show segment this weekend. Jim King Solomon, who played a key role in putting together this weekend’s Dr. Martin Luther King Remembrance events will be interviewed by Dave Little on Friday while Dave Brower will be joined by Northwood Bloodstock’s Bob Boni on Saturday. Brower and Boni will be talking about Monday’s Winter Mixed Sale at The Big M.

BIG POOLS, SMALL TAKEOUTS: The Meadowlands is the industry’s handle leader, and much of the reason why is many of the bets the mile oval offers feature a low takeout of 15 percent.

Here is a rundown of those wagers for the upcoming weekend:

·         Race 1: 20-cent Pick-5

·         Race 3: 20-cent Survivor Pick-7

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

·         Race 8: 20-cent Pick-6

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

·         Race 15: 10-cent Pentafecta/Hi-5

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

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

FREE PROGRAMS: Free past performances for every race of every Meadowlands program are available 48 hours before a given card. To access the no-cost official program pages, go to playmeadowlands.com.

A NEW LOOK: The Meadowlands website has had a makeover, and those seeking the 411 on everything Big M can now do so at a site with a clean, modern design that is mobile phone responsive.

As it has always been, the address is playmeadowlands.com and is worth checking out.

GET SOCIAL: 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), Brower (@eedoogie), Little (@DaveLittleBigM), Ken Warkentin (@kenvoiceover), Shades (@ShadesOnRacing) and Edison Hatter (@Edison_1999_).

WHAT’S COMING UP? On Saturday, Jan. 22, The Big M will host a World Harness Handicapping Championship Qualifier where the prize money – based on 50 entrants – is $10,000. In addition, the top four finishers get a seat in the WHHC Final, which takes place at the mile oval on Saturday, Sept. 10.

For complete details, go to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/2022-january-400-whhc-qualifier/

One of the more popular promotions at the track is the “Chili Cook-Off”, which takes place on Saturday, Jan. 29. Patrons can walk around and taste samples, or, if you have a chili recipe, come on out and participate. You might walk away with the $1,000 grand prize.

For more information, go to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/2022-meadowlands-winter-chili-cook-off/

NFL fans can come to The Meadowlands on the day of the league’s championship game (Sunday, Feb. 13) and watch and wager on the biggest event of the year in American sports by viewing the game on huge-screen TVs that will be spread throughout the building and wagering on it in the FanDuel Sportsbook.

There will also be several dining options so fans can have a place to watch the game and have some great eats at the same time.

For all the details, and to make a reservation, go to https://playmeadowlands.com/event/big-game-dining/

SPEAKING OF FOOTBALL BETTING: Wild-Card Weekend kicks off this weekend on Saturday, Jan. 14, and you can watch and wager on the action inside the grandstand at The Meadowlands in the FanDuel Sportsbook.

The action gets underway Saturday at 4:30 p.m. when the Las Vegas Raiders visit the Cincinnati Bengals, who are a 4½-point point-spread favorite that are -225 on the money line. The under/over is 48½.

AFC East rivals clash when The New England Patriots visit the Buffalo Bills at 8:15 p.m. The Bills are -4 and -205 while the U/O is 44.

The action will then resume Sunday (Jan. 15) when the Philadelphia Eagles head to Tampa Bay to take on the defending champion Buccaneers at 1 p.m. The Bucs are -8½ and -370 and the U/O is 46.

At 4:30 p.m., the San Francisco 49ers head to Dallas, where the Cowboys are -3 and -162. The U/O is 51.

The night game (8:15 p.m.) finds the biggest favorite of the weekend as the Kansas City Chiefs host the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Chiefs are a 12½-point favorite and a -700 money-line choice. The U/O is 46.

The weekend will conclude Monday (Jan. 17) night when the Arizona Cardinals head to Los Angeles to take on the Rams at 8:15 p.m. The Rams are a 3½-point choice and -194 on the money line. The U/O is 49½.

Hours for the FanDuel Sportsbook are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-1 a.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-2 a.m.; Saturday 7 a.m.-2 a.m. and Sunday 8 a.m.-12 a.m.

Dance Traveler gets top billing at Cal Expo

By Mark Ratzky, publicity – Cal Expo Harness

 

Dance Traveler, who chased home a couple of tough customers in Ridonkuloso and Pancetta last week, has his chance to shine in Friday night’s main event for pacers at Cal Expo.

 

There will be 10 races presented by Watch and Wager LLC and things get underway at 6:45 p.m.

 

Dance Traveler is a 6-year-old son of Up Front Brad who is owned by Qks Racing, takes his lessons from Quentin Schneider and will have James Kennedy at the controls.

 

The dark-hued performer started the new year in style by taking the measure of a softer field with Luke Plano doing the honors that evening. He left to the top, was covered up by the quarter, was back out again to the final bend and prevailed by a half-length.

 

Up to this level for last week’s tour, he put in a sold try but was unable to match a very sharp Ridonkuloso and the classy Pancetta in that affair and had to settle for the show money.

 

Taking him on Friday, from the rail out, are I’m An Athlete, Bettor’s Promise, Rockinscience, Cowboys Dirtyboots, Dream Chasin and Captain Terminator.

 

Looking ahead to Sunday’s program, there will be an Open Pace headed by A Major Omen; an Open Trot featuring Silverhill Volo and Pridecrest and elimination heat for the Steve Wiseman Pace. 

 

I’m An Athlete shows his class, heart

 

When he ended up on the right end of a nose photo last week with trainer Jesse Pacheco in the sulky, I’m An Athlete was winning for the 56^th time in his 286 starts and continues to work toward the $300,000 earnings plateau for owner Ronald Rettig-Zucchi.

 

While the 12-year-old doesn’t mix it up with the best on the grounds these days and isn’t the 1:51 pacer he was a few seasons ago, he showed every bit of his will to win when he got the job done last Friday night with his proud trainer doing the honors.

 

“I’ve had him since he was a 4-year-old, and he’s definitely one of my favorites,” Pacheco related after the score. “He’s all class and has given us a lot of good times.”

 

I’m An Athlete had excuses in his previous two outings here, as he was hung the mile two starts previous and then was locked in for his life in his January 2 appearance and lost all chance.

 

“That extra time off did him a lot of good and he was training much differently,” Jesse noted. “I went into the race with a lot of confidence.”

 

The way Pacheco handled I’m An Athlete last week you would have thought he was a 3-5 shot instead of a 6-1 chance, and his confidence in the veteran pacer was rewarded.

 

He left for the top, was covered up briefly but was right back out again to the lead. Hooked the length of the stretch by favored Marced Magic, he gamely