Mike Merton drove four winners including a longshot victory
with KJ Leo in the featured $7,800 pace at Tioga Downs on Saturday (August 7).
In the feature The Candyman Can (Jim Meittinis) led to the
first quarter in :26.4. He used a :28.3
second quarter and led to the half in :55.2.
He continued to lead to three-quarters in 1:24.3.
As they went around the far turn Mach West (Wally
Hennessey) popped the pocket and challenged for the lead. KJ Leo ($31.00) made a three-wide move down
the stretch. Mach West took a short lead
in between horses KJ Leo powered right on by to win in 1:52.3. Mach West finished second as The Candyman Can
held on for third.
KJ Leo is a 5-year-old gelding by Art Major. He is trained by Gary Messenger for owners
Scott Woogen, Brenda Messenger, and Philip Shapiro. It was his fourth win of the season. He now owns 16 career victories.
Merton got his other wins with Manwilling ($6.60), Western
Thunder ($20.60), and Bjanthony ($18.00)
Tioga Downs welcomes New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) 2-year-old
trotting fillies on Sunday (August 8).
The 8-race card starting at 1:00 p.m.
For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.
