Amercianprimetime (Drew Monti) captured the $11,000 featured Open Handicap pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday (July 7).
Motown N (Jeff Long) charged to the lead and led the group to a quick first quarter of :25,4. He would hit the half first in :54.3. Rebellious (Tyler Buter) took over the lead right after the halfway marker.
Americanprimetime ($8.20), who is owned by the Rock&Roll Stable Inc., went first-over as they reached the back stretch. He pressured Rebellious all the way to three-quarters. Rebellious maintained the lead at they hit three-quarters in 1:21.3. Americanprimetime continued to grind it out all around the final turn. As they reached the stretch he finally wore down Rebellious to win in a seasonal best of 1:50.1. Lauxmont Capri (Mike Merton) came flying late to finish second. Rebellious had to settle for third.
Americanprimetime is a 7-year-old horse by American Ideal. It was his fifth win this season and his 33rd career victory.
Mike Merton drove four winners on the day. He won his first race of the day with big long shot Cecil Casanova ($49.60). His other victories came with Jackrluckytoo ($8.60), Sometimes Said ($13.80), and R M Blackhawk ($6.80).
Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Friday (July 12) with a nine race card starting at 6:15 p.m.
For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.
