by James Witherite, Tioga Downs racing media
Edward and James Hall's Rock N Load ($12.00) controlled the
pace throughout in Friday (June 6) evening's $14,000 Miracle Mile 1 Handicap
distaff pace at Tioga Downs, turning aside a first-over challenge from 3-5
favorite Little Santamonica en route to a 1:52.4 victory.
The six-year-old Rocknroll Hanover mare achieved the lead
easily, clearing Miss Annie J (Jason Bartlett) through a :28.1 first quarter
and controlling the terms through a rated :57 half. On the backstretch,
Aaron Byron moved Little Santamonica first-over, but her attempt at a sixth
consecutive win was rebuffed by Rock N Load on the entry to the far turn.
With the favorite fading, Rock N Load was left to stave off a late rally
from Passion R Virginie (Jim Marohn, Jr.), digging in to prevail by 1-1/2
lengths. Miss Annie J stayed on for third off the pocket trip.
John Cummings, Jr. drove Rock N Load for trainer Daniel
Gill.
Four $12,500 first-round divisions of the Morrisville
College late-closing series were also on the card, with Cal Chips Brother (1:54.3,
Corey Braden) fastest of the four winners. Stitch in Time (1:56, Tyler
Buter), Spaced Out (1:56.3, Mike Simons), and You Rock My World (1:56.2, Jason
Bartlett) prevailed in their respective divisions, as well.
