Sunday, July 31, 2011

Heston Blue Chip impressive in NYSS victory at Tioga Downs


Tioga Downs hosted five divisions of New York Sire Stakes for 2-year-old colt and gelding pacers on Sunday afternoon.

Two of the most impressive colts up until this point drew in against one another in the fifth and final division with Lawgiver Hanover (George Brennan) drawing the rail, and Heston Blue Chip (Tim Tetrick) post position six.

In the showdown everyone was waiting for, both colts took off the gate as the field battled for position through an opening panel in 27.

Tetrick and Heston Blue Chip were sitting in fourth past the quarter and made the quarter pole move to the front past the half in 56.4.

Brennan quickly moved Lawgiver Hanover to the outside with a first over brush and cleared Heston Blue Chip down the backside and led through three quarters in 1:24.1.

However, that was not the last they would see of Heston Blue Chip as Tetrick wheeled back out around the final turn and quickly paced right by Lawgiver Hanover and stamped himself the leader in the NYSS circuit winning in 1:53.4.

Lawgiver Hanover was an easy second, while Sir Melo’s Z Tam (Pat Lachance) paced home late for third.

The win improved Heston Blue Chip's young career record to a perfect four-for-four and increased his seasonal earnings to more than $54,000.

Linda Toscano trains the 2-year-old son of American Ideal–Shot Togo Bluechip for Ken Jacobs of Baldwinsville, NY.

"He (Heston Blue Chip) is a very nice and talented colt and he raced super today," said Tetrick. "I qualified George's colt (Lawgiver Hanover) and he is super talented too so I knew it was going to be a tough division today. He is so big and strong and just does everything you ask him to and does it right."

Other NYSS division winners included: Forever Just – Tim Tetrick – 1:53.4 (Bettor's Delight–Forever Cam), My Boogie Shoes – Andy Miller – 1:54.3 (Artiscape–Boogie Woogie Flu), Dynamic Youth – George Brennan – 1:53.4 (Bettor's Delight – Always True), and Glass Prince – Tim Tetrick – 1:56 (Artiscape – China Princess).

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Monday, August 1st at 6:00 pm featuring four races of the World Driving Championship.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Aruba Vacation back to winning ways in Tioga Saturday night feature


Aruba Vacation has been stabled at Tioga Downs since he began training for Guy Howard in his two-year old season and has been a force to reckon with on his home turf.

On Saturday night, the 4-year-old son of Dream Vacation–Dixie Hit notched his first win of the 2011 season at Tioga Downs in the $18,000 Open handicap trot.

Leaving aggressively from post position number two, driver Fern Paquet Jr. relinquished the lead to Get Chipped (Michael Merton) and sat the garden spot through fractions of 27.3, 57.1, and 1:26.4.

As the field rounded the final turn, Paquet was tired of waiting and pulled the pocket and trotted right by the pacesetter on his way to an open length romp in 1:55.4.

The mile was just a fifth of a second off of the current track record for 4-year-old gelding trotters held by Strong Hall and Barry Segal from 2009.

Howd That Feel (Jason Mac Dougall) found room late in the lane to pick up second, while Winbak Red (Phil Fluet), despite a tough first over grind, hung on for third.

Ed Hensley posted a driving triple on the night's 11-race card, while Corey Braden, Jimmy Marohn Jr., and Fern Paquet Jr. each scored doubles.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Sunday, July 31st at 1:30 pm and will feature five divisions of the NYSS for 2-year-old colt and gelding pacers.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Penny Pincher takes Tioga Friday night feature


Penny Pincher was a force to be reckoned with in the fillies and mares open pace early on in the 2011 season before a few breaks led to a one-month hiatus from racing.

In her third start back from the break, Penny Pincher posted her second consecutive win at Tioga Downs on Friday night.

This time it was the $18,000 featured event for mare pacers, but Penny Pincher got strapped with post position number eight.

However, that did not stop driver Corey Braden from blasting off the wings of the gate to cut through fractions of 27, 55.4, and 1:24.3.

As the field rounded the final turn, Penny Pincher was receiving heavy pressure from the first over Hello Great Mate (Lewayne Miller) and sitting the anxious pocket was Billie Bluechip (Mike Micallef).

Down the lane Braden was desperately holding to the lead as Micallef looked for daylight up the pylons but there was none.

At the wire Penny Pincher held off Billie Bluechip by hugging the pylons in 1:53.3.

Hello Great Mate held strong despite a first over trip to nail down the show spot.

Fern Paquet Jr. and Mike Micallef each posted driving doubles on the night's 10-race card.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Saturday, July 30th at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Tioga Downs gearing up for Monday's World Drivers Championship leg


The four races to comprise the Tioga Downs leg of the World Driving Championship were drawn on Thursday morning for Monday evening's race program (Post time 6:00 pm).

The four races on Monday night that will make up the World Driving Championship portion will be carded as races two through five.

Tioga Downs and the USTA are hosting a guaranteed $5,000 Pick Four pool for the World Driving Championship races (two through five).

The 10 drivers competing in the World Driving Championship are Bjorn Goop, Jody Jamieson, Michael Nimczyk, Chris Lewis, Enrico Bellei, Dexter Dunn, Juan Riera-Rossello, Birger Jorgensen, Franck Nivard, and representing the USA, Corey Callahan.

Also featured on the Monday evening race card will be two giveaways, including Go Team USA towels and a commemorative World Driving Championship sweatshirt blanket, both while supplies last.

Also, Tioga Downs will be giving away a 2011 Kia Soul courtesy of Williams Auto Group during the race program.

Details of how to win the car will be given on Monday evening; but, everyone in attendance on Monday evening will be given a chance to sign up to participate.

Tioga Downs kicks off its weekend of live racing on Friday, July 29th at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Paquet Wins 5!


Opan Heart returned home to Tioga Downs on Sunday afternoon in the featured condition pace, and the 6-year-old son of Ameripan Gigolo–Panic Depressive equaled his lifetime mark.

Getting away fourth from post position number two, Opan Heart watched the leaders cut through fractions of 26.4 and 55.2.

Just past the half mile pole, Marohn tipped Opan Heart to the outside and flushed cover from Red Star Paylater (Ed Hensley) as the field headed towards three quarters.

Leader Stettin Hanover and Red Star Paylater were in a nose-to-nose battle past three quarters in 1:23.4.

Around the final turn, Marohn headed Opan Heart out three high and paced home through the stretch an easy winner in 1:52.4.

The Awful Truth (Simon Allard) used a two hole trip to secure second, while Stettin Hanover (Corey Braden) hung on for third.

It was the second win in eight seasonal starts for Opan Heart who is trained by Jim Perry for William and Jack Heinz.

Fern Paquet Jr. hosted a driving clinic at Tioga on Sunday afternoon, posting five wins on the 10-race card, while Jimmy Marohn Jr. bagged two wins.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Friday, July 29th at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Cane Pace to be raced at Tioga Downs in 2011 and 2012


Tioga Downs is proud to announce that beginning with this year's $450,000e Cane Pace, it will be the new host of the first leg of Pacing's Triple Crown.

Freehold Raceway and Tioga Downs management have worked out an agreement to move the prestigious race from New Jersey to New York for 2011 and 2012.

"We worked out a deal with Freehold to be the host track of this prestigious event for the next two years and we are extremely excited," said VP of Racing and Simulcast Jason M. Settlemoir. "We would like to thank the Southern Tier Harness Horsemen's Association for working with us to be able to host the Cane Pace and continue to promote our industry. The final will take place on closing night at Tioga Downs, which always draws a huge crowd and has a great atmosphere."

"Freehold has been a proud host of the Cane Pace since 1998, unfortunately, due to expected purse payments from the NJSEA as part of our contract for Casino Purse Enhancement funds not being released, Freehold has been placed in a serious purse funding situation," said Penn Wood Racing President Christopher McErlean. "We appreciate Tioga's willingness to step in quickly to keep the Cane Pace going for the next two years."

The eliminations (if necessary) for the Cane Pace will take place on Saturday, September 3rd with the final going postward on closing night at Tioga Downs, Saturday, September 10th with a post time of 6:50 pm.

Horses not eligible to the Cane Pace can supplement to the race with a $35,000 supplemental fee due at time of declaration.

As part of the Pacing Triple Crown special supplemental declaration, a horse not eligible to the Little Brown Jug can still get in by one way only.

The horse must win the Cane Pace (First leg of the pacing Triple Crown) and then pay a supplemental payment of $45,000 to be eligible.

In addition to the $450,000e Cane Pace, Tioga Downs will also host its counterpart, the $150,000e Shady Daisy, for 3-year-old pacing fillies, on the night of the final (Saturday, September 10th).

Supplemental entries can be made to the Shady Daisy with a $7,500 payment due at time of declaration

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Here's video of last year's Cane Pace won by One More Laugh.

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Oh No Three O in Tioga Saturday night feature


Oh No Three O scored his second straight victory at Tioga Downs in the featured condition trot with Corey Braden.

Leaving from post position number two, Oh No Three O and Braden sat in the stalking position through an opening quarter in 27.2.

Past the three-eighths mile pole, Braden moved Oh No Three O first up on the pacesetting Ten Yard Penalty past the half in 58.

Down the backside, the duo cleared to the lead and trotted home an easy winner in 1:56.4.

Aruba Vacation (Phil Fluet) trotted home late to get second, while Dusty Diamond (Kyle Di Benedetto) got up for third.

The win was the second in five seasonal starts for the 4-year-old son of Ken Warkentin–Melinda Hall for trainer Jeff Long.

Corey Braden posted a driving triple on the night's 10-race card, while Phil Fluet enjoyed a driving double.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Sunday, July 24th at 1:30 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Leanback Coco in Tioga Friday night feature


On Friday night at Tioga Downs, Leanback Coco and Phil Fluet captured the featured $18,000 fillies and mares open handicap pace.

No stranger to the winner's circle on Friday nights, Leanback Coco made her fourth trip in her last five starts in Tioga's featured Friday night race.

Assigned post position number six in a field of six, Fluet floated out from the gate and caught a spot in third as the field paced through fractions of 27 and 56.

Turning down the backstretch aimed at three quarters, Fluet moved Leanback Coco to her usual first over move and wore down the leader Hello Great Mate late in the stretch to win in 1:53.3.

It was the fifth win of the year for the 8-year-old daughter of Cambest – Racin For Angie for owner-trainer Ken Andersen of New Jersey.

Lizzie's Dream and Mike Merton paced home late to get up for second, while Hello Great Mate and Lewayne Miller hung on for third.

Phil Fluet posted a driving triple on the night's nine-race card, while Ed Hensley posted a driving double.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Saturday, July 23rd at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Meadowlands Pace, See You at Peelers, Tompkins Geers Grand Circuit Stakes Featured on "Inside Harness Racing"



"Inside Harness Racing" hit the road and traveled to the Meadowlands over the weekend to bring viewers extensive coverage of the $1,000,000 Meadowlands Pace and the 20th straight win by super filly See You at Peelers.

Fans can see all the action on the newest episode of "Inside Harness Racing" that debuts tonight (Wednesday) at 6:00 PM on Time Warner Cable Sports throughout Upstate New York.

Viewers are encouraged to check their local listings for the channel in their area.

Fans outside the viewing area can watch the show and all previous episodes on the Tioga Downs YouTube Channel.

Viewers will also see track record performances and some of the most talented 2-year-olds beginning their racing careers in the Tompkins-Geers Grand Circuit Stakes held over the weekend at Tioga Downs.

Wendy Ross talks to several drivers and trainers about what it takes to prepare those talented 2-year-olds for the races and Jason Settlemoir sits down with up-and-coming Australian driver Andrew McCarthy.

"Inside Harness Racing" is hosted and produced by Justin Horowitz with production and videography provided by Jim Rotundo.

For more information on Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs, visit their websites at www.tiogadowns.com and www.vernondowns.com.

Monday, July 18, 2011

Go Go Dancer in final Tompkins–Geers race on Monday evening at Tioga Downs


The Tompkins–Geers Grand Circuit rounded out its four-day race weekend on Monday evening at Tioga Downs.

One $65,910 division for 3-year-old filly trotters brought the curtain down on grand circuit weekend.

Go Go Dancer and Brian Mattison were sent off as the prohibitive race favorite and wasted no time getting control of the race past the quarter in 28.1.

From there, Mattison rationed out comfortable fractions of 59 and 1:27.3 as Refuse To Lose and Howard Parker pushed first up on the outside.

Around the final turn, Go Go Dancer had one challenger left in the pocket with Tap Tap Dance and Dan Daley, but down the stretch, Go Go Dancer was too strong and won by open lengths in 1:57.1.

The win was the fourth of the year for the 3-year-old daughter of Credit Winner-Princess Gladiator for the partnership of Winske, Michaels, Smith, and the Kelley Racing Stable.

The winning trainer was Paul Kelley.

The winner returned $3.60 to win and increased her seasonal bankroll to more than $88,000.

In the $18,000 Open Handicap pace, Tioga regulars Winbak Dimensions and Jimmy Marohn Jr. struck the front and never looked back, posting a new lifetime mark at the age of 8 years old in 1:50.4.

Jim Perry trains the son of Village Jove–Exact Dimensions for William and Jack Heinz of Ohio.

Greg Merton and Mike Micallef each posted driving doubles on the night's 12-race card.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Friday, July 22nd at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Flipper J posts track and stakes record in Geers at Tioga Downs


Fresh off of his track record at Goshen, Flipper J proved that his mile was no fluke on Sunday afternoon in the Tompkins–Geers for 3-year-old colt and gelding pacers, posting another track record in back-to-back starts.

Tim Tetrick was in controls behind Flipper J who left from post position number five and quickly put the colt on the front end through fractions of 26.1 and 54.2.

Down the backside it was a two horse breakaway as Roll’em Up (George Brennan) kept tightly to the Tetrick helmet in two as the field passed three quarters in 1:21.4.

Around the final turn Brennan edged to the outside, but Flipper J was too strong and held on to win in a track and stakes record time of 1:49.3.

Roll’Em Up was second, while Lucky Cadet (Andy Miller) was third.

"He’s got such good gate speed, and such quick versatile speed and today he was very good," said Tetrick. "I didn’t want to keep George's horse in it down the backside that's why we sprinted there and he responded well in the lane."

In the other $33,460 division for three-year-old colt and gelding pacers, Major Belle posted a major upset at 36-1 for Jim Taggart Jr. in 1:53.

In the 2-year-old colt pace divisions of the Tompkins–Geers another Linda Toscano trainee equaled a stakes record mile with a 1:52 effort from Heston Blue Chip.

Tetrick also did the driving on the 2-year-old son of American Ideal – Shot Togo Bluechip for owner Ken Jacobs.

Other division winners for the 2-year-old colt and gelding pacers included: Forever Just – Jody Jamieson 1:55 (Bettor's Delight – Forever Cam), Lawgiver Hanover – George Brennan 1:53 (Art Major – Lauren Order), and Mr Erv – Andy Miller 1:53 (Art Major – Digga Digga).

Division winners for 3-year-old colt and gelding trotters included: The Evictor – Andy Miller 1:55.2 and Keenan – Jeff Gregory 1:55, which established a new Tompkins – Geers stakes record for 3-year-old colt and gelding trotters.

Tim Tetrick, Andy Miller, Jeff Gregory, and Ed Hensley each posted driving doubles on the afternoon's 12-race card.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Monday, July 18th at 4:00 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Howd That Feel in Saturday night feature at Tioga Downs


Howd That Feel and Kyle Di Benedetto took home Saturday night's $18,000 Open Handicap trot at Tioga Downs.

Leaving from post position number three, Howd That Feel settled in third behind Whata Hustler (Corey Braden) and Grey Ice (Fern Paquet Jr) through fractions of 27.1 and 57.

As the field headed down the backside, Di Benedetto waited patiently, not pulling first over, and turned that duty over to Winning Fireworks (Phil Fluet) as the field struck three quarters in 1:25.3.

Around the final turn, Howd That Feel edged off the pylons and tipped three high down the lane to swoop them all in 1:56.

The win was the third of the year for the 5-year-old son of Muscles Yankee – Rose De Vie Stena for trainer Matthew Butcher Jr.

Grey Ice (Fern Paquet Jr.) used a pylon skimming journey to finish second, while Whata Hustler (Corey Braden) hung on for third.

Ed Hensley and Kyle Di Benedetto each posted driving doubles on the night's 11-race card.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Sunday, July 17th at 1:30 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Friday, July 15, 2011

Pacing fillies in Tompkins-Geers Stakes highlight Tioga Friday night card


In the second of a five-day stretch of live racing at Tioga Downs, the filly pacers were in the spotlight on Friday night.

Five divisions for two-year-old fillies were contested, while just one full field of nine was drawn out for the sophmores.

When the Grand Circuit is in town at any track across the East Coast, Dave Palone is usually not far behind, and he made his trip worthwhile, posting a driving grand slam.

In the lone $62,000 division for 3-year-old pacing fillies, Miss Annie J left swiftly from post position number one and sat third as the field went by the opening quarter in 28.

Asteria Blue Chip (Ed Hensley) led the field to the quarter pole, but Palone quickly moved Miss Annie J to the front and cut through a half mile in 56.3.

Down the backside, Jimmy Marohn Jr. wheeled Character Flaw first up from third and dueled with the leader through three quarters in 1:24.1.

As the field turned for home, Miss Annie J dismissed her first-over bid, but had to deal with a four-wide Shyaway (Stephane Bouchard).

Coming to the wire, Miss Annie J was too tough and fought gamely to the wire to win in 1:53.

The mile was just a fifth of a second off of the stakes record set by Panitdepressant (Brett Miller) in 2004 at Scioto Downs.

Shyaway (Stephane Bouchard) finished second, Asteria Blue Chip (Ed Hensley) finished third, and White Jade (Brandon Simpson) rounded out the superfecta.

"I had a lot of nice young horses up here tonight, and picked up the drive on this one for Linda," said winning driver Dave Palone. "She's a nice filly and the rail here seems to be an advantage more than other five-eighth's so I just protected position. I knew my best shot was to get her to the front and she was game throughout the mile."

Hallie Gallie and Dave Palone posted the fastest mile of the night for the freshman pacing fillies in the first division.

The royally bred daughter of Village Jolt – Galleria won in 1:54.1 for Fashion Farms and trainer Jim Campbell.

Other division winners included: Brownsville Bomber - Mike Micallef 1:54.3 (American Ideal – Cantor's Daughter), Air Guitar Hanover – Dave Palone 1:55.3 (Rocknroll Hanover – Armbro Amoretto), Major Look – Brandon Simpson 1:54.2 (Art Major – Band Of Emeralds), and Park Lane Paige – Ed Hensley 1:54.4 (Art Major – Impagain Hanover).

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Saturday, July 16th at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Freshman trotters in Tompkins-Geers highlight Thursday night card


The freshman trotters rolled into Tioga Downs for a special Thursday night race card in the Tompkins-Geers stakes.

When the dust settled, multiple track records had fallen victim to some impressive 2-year-old trotters.

Leading the way for the freshman trotting fillies was Check Me Out from the always powerful Ray Schnittker stable, who brought 15 freshman to Tioga Downs for the Geers.

Check Me Out left from post position number five and led the way at every mark of the race through fractions of 29.3, 58.2, and 1:27.1 before Jeff Gregory moved Blue Yonder out of the pocket to take a shot at the leader.

However, Schnittker was sitting chilly on this 2-year-old from the first crop of Donato Hanover – Illusion Bi and easily stormed to victory and shattered the track record for 2-year-old trotting fillies in 1:56.

Schnittker shares ownership of Check Me Out with Charles Iannazzo of New York.

Cowgirl Hall (Fern Paquet Jr.) come on late to be second, while Blue Yonder (Jeff Gregory) had to settle for third.

"She did it so easy tonight, I had a ton of trot left in her and if I would have asked her to she could have trotted in 54 tonight," said winning driver Ray Schnittker. "She is from the first crop of Donato's and I have seven of them and they are pretty impressive. She was just spooky good tonight."


In the Geers for the 2-year-old colt trotters, A Penny Earned (Jeff Gregory) were hard pressed to clear to the lead past the three eighth's mile mark of the race but took control and never let up.

The duo trotted through fractions of 59.2 and 1:28.1 before easily drawing clear of the field to stop the tele-timer in a new mark for 2-year-old colt trotters in 1:57.4.

A Penny Earned is now a perfect two for two in his young career for trainer George Ducharme and the partnership of Ross, Fontaine, Ducharme, and Oliva.

Other division winners for 2-year-old trotting fillies include: Miss Fidget – Ed Lohmeyer 1:59.4 (Conway Hall – So Wonderful), Real Babe – Ray Schnittker 1:59.3 (Donato Hanover – Housethatruthbuilt), Dream On Hanover – Brett Miller 1:59.2 (Andover Hall – D Train), Lima Playmate – Ray Schnittker 1:58 (Credit Winner – Pacific Legacy), Valentine Queen – Ray Schnittker 1:59.3 (Andover Hall – Queen Of Jewels), Maven – Jeff Gregory 1:56.3 (Glidemaster – M Stewart).

Division winners for the 2-year-old colt and gelding trotters included: Delano – Ray Schnittker 1:58.1 (Credit Winner – Kelly Hall), Sunpine – William Bailey 1:59.3 (Equinox Bi – Caselton Pine), Royal Shyster – Dan Daley 1:58.4 (Rc Royalty – The Planet), Flyhawk Jester – Dan Daley 2:00.4 (Rc Royalty – Graduation Party).

Ray Schnittker posted five driving victories out of the 15 trotters he brought with him Thursday night to Tioga, while Jeff Gregory and Dan Daley each scored doubles.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Friday, July 15th at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

See You at Peelers' Record-Breaking 19th Straight Win Showcased on "Inside Harness Racing"



The undefeated champion, See You at Peelers, won her 19th straight race in a track-record time of 1:51.1 at Vernon Downs over the weekend.

The breathtaking performance is highlighted on this week's episode of "Inside Harness Racing."

The 30-minute program debuts tonight (Wednesday) at 6:00 PM on Time Warner Cable Sports throughout Upstate New York.

Viewers are encouraged to check their local listings for the channel in their area.

Fans outside the viewing area can watch the show and all previous episodes on the Tioga Downs YouTube Channel.

This week's show also includes an interview with driver Marcus Johansson and trainer Jimmy Takter, who discusses the decision to race See You at Peelers this Saturday in the Tarport Hap at the Meadowlands and why the filly holds such a special place in his heart.

Also, meet the girl behind the filly, her devoted caretaker, Marika Friberg.

Leading 3-year-old trotter Dejarmbro is also featured in this week's show after his easy win in a division of the New York Sire Stakes at Tioga Downs.

Jason Settlemoir talks with young Canadian driving star Simon Allard and Wendy Ross spends a morning inside the race office to see what it takes to put together a night of racing.

"Inside Harness Racing" is hosted and produced by Justin Horowitz with production and videography provided by Jim Rotundo.

For more information on Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs, visit their websites at www.tiogadowns.com and www.vernondowns.com.

That's Justice scores second straight Open pace win at Tioga Downs


Phil Fluet and That's Justice took home the featured $16,500 Open Handicap pace on Monday evening for the second straight week.

Leaving from post position number five, Fluet settled That's Justice in fourth along the pylons as Lahaye (Brandon Simpson) stepped out to an early lead with favorite Winbak Dimensions (Jimmy Marohn Jr.) settling in second through an opening panel of 27.

Lahaye continued to control the field as they reached the half mile mark in 56.1, however strong pressure came in the third panel from That's Justice, who cleared the leader by three quarters in 1:24.1.

As the field rounded the final turn, Fluet asked for more and That's Justice responded, opening up on the field to win by open lengths in 1:52.2.

Red Star Paylater (Ed Hensley) used the cover from That's Justice to finish second, while Winbak Dimensions, despite being shuffled on the pylons from a quitting Lahaye, found room late to finish third.

That's Justice, who won as the 6-5 favorite in last week's open pace returned a generous $9.70 to win for his loyal supporters.

Corey Braden posted a driving triple on Monday evening's 13-race card, while Fern Paquet Jr. and Phil Fluet each scored doubles.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Thursday, July 14th at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Track records fall in NYSS at Tioga Downs


Six divisions of New York Sire Stakes for 3-year-old colt and gelding trotters and five divisions for 3-year-old trotting fillies headlined Sunday afternoon's 11-race card at Tioga Downs.

In the third division for 3-year-old colt & gelding trotters, I'm The Answer (Trond Smedshammer) lowered the bar for 3-year-old gelding trotters with a first-over win in 1:55.

However, that record would only stand for another half hour, until the fourth division two races later, as Keenan (Jeff Gregory) posted all the fractions on his way to a new lifetime mark and new track record of 1:54.

In the fifth division on the card for 3-year-old colt trotters, Dejarmbro, showed who the best male trotter in New York is, as he throttled to the front past a quarter in 27.3.

It was cruise control from there as Smedshammer eased away from any and all challengers tripping the tele-timer in 1:55.
"I was going to give him the week off and go straight from the Beal to the Stanley Dancer next week, but instead of training him up hard I decided to bring him here," said Trainer-Driver Trond Smedshammer. "I think if this colt was eligible to the Hambletonian he would be the favorite right now, because we have beat everyone except Blue Porsche. We will see how he is later in the year and probably supplement him to the Breeders' Crown and the Kentucky Futurity."

Other division winners for the 3-year-old colts included: Petruchio (Jeff Gregory) 1:56, New Identity (Trond Smedshammer) 1:57.2, Order By Texas (Jeff Gregory) 1:57.2.

Winners of the five filly divisions included: Em El Cash (Trond Smedshammer) 1:58.2, Temper Of Will (Trond Smedshammer) 1:57.2, Stell R Time (Jordan Stratton) 1:58.3, Leah’s Ex (Angus McDonald) 1:57.2, Conwayslassie (Jeff Gregory) 1:56.3.

Trond Smedshammer posted five driving victories on the 11-race card, while Jeff Gregory posted a grand slam.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Monday, July 11th at 1:30 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Lolique takes Tioga Saturday night feature


John Wagner and Lolique shipped in to Tioga Downs on Saturday night and left with the lion's share of the $16,500 purse in the Open Handicap Trot.

Leaving from post position number six, Wagner sent Lolique off the wings of the gate to clear to the lead just past the opening quarter in 27.2, with Whata Hustler (Corey Braden) settling in the pocket.

The field raced in line past a half in 56.3, and as the field headed towards three quarters, Scorpion Moon (Ed Hensley) applied first over pressure to the leader but was easily rebuffed through three quarters in 1:25.

As the field turned for home, Braden pulled Whata Hustler out of the pocket for a stretch duel, but Wagner was sitting chilly with Lolique and was never seriously challenged.

The mile of 1:54.2 tied the 2011 seasonal best time for the 8-year-old son of Tagliabue – Crystal Vic who is owned by Pamela Wagner and Scott Woogen, both of Virginia.

Whata Hustler (Corey Braden) settled for second, while Howd That Feel (Kyle Di Benedetto) got away third and finished in the show spot.

2011 leading driver Ed Hensley posted a driving triple on the night's nine-race card, while Jimmy Marohn Jr. scored a double.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Sunday, July 10th at 1:30 pm featuring 11 NYSS divisions for sophomore trotters.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Dejarmbro leads NYSS divisions at Tioga Downs on Sunday afternoon


Fresh off his impressive 1:52.2 triumph in the $500,000 Earl Beal Final at Pocono Downs, Dejarmbro will look for his fourth straight win Sunday afternoon at Tioga Downs in a division of the New York Sire Stakes.

Trainer Trond Smedshammer will do the driving for the Purple Haze Stable of Fairport, NY in the fifth of six divisions for sophomore trotting colts, listed as race number nine on the card.

Dejarmbro's stable mate, I’m The Answer, will also race on Sunday afternoon in the third division (Race 5) after making a miscue in the Beal Final and finishing eighth.

However, I'm The Answer carries a mark of 1:52.4 from the Beal elimination a week earlier and will leave from post position number one for trainer-driver Trond Smedshammer.

A total of 11 NYSS divisions cover the 11-race card on Sunday afternoon and will feature six divisions for 3-year-old trotting colts and geldings, and five divisions for 3-year-old trotting fillies.

Post time for the 11-race card is scheduled at 1:30 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Tioga Downs Gears up for the Fifth Annual Drivers' Championship


It's a saying at Tioga that with each year work to do things "Bigger and Better," and the Fifth Annual Drivers' Championship is no exception.

If you think last year's prize of $25,000 was a nice incentive, listen to this year's package:

The winner at the end of the event will get $25,000, a commemorative ring from Bow River Jewelry, a trophy from LV Harkness, a new set of summer driving colors courtesy of Jim Reigle Colors and a new evolution race bike courtesy of Tom Harmer.

However, with the newly added format, there is another $10,000 that can be the winner's.

This year's Drivers' Championship will have two parts to it.

All nine drivers in the competition will compete at The Meadowlands in the opening leg of the event on Saturday, August 20th competing in three or four races.

Then all nine drivers will carry the points they earned at The Meadowlands and shuffle off to Tioga Downs on Sunday, August 28th to compete over the final events.

The leader after the events held at The Meadowlands on Saturday, August 20th will earn $10,000 and will obviously be in the best position to collect another $25k heading to Tioga.

The nine drivers competing in this year's event, as in years past, will be the top seven money-winning drivers in North America, the leading money-winning driver at Tioga Downs, and one sponsor's exemption.

The prizes for second through ninth are nothing to laugh at as second place will receive $5,000, third place $4,000 and drivers finishing fourth through ninth will each receive $2,000 for their participation.

Also featured on Sunday, August 28th (Tioga Drivers' Championship Day) Tioga will re-introduce the Tim Tetrick bobblehead in coordination with Winbak Farms.

Tetrick will be here at 12:00 pm on the trackside apron along with the eight other drivers to sign autographs and talk with the fans.

Previous winners of the Tioga Downs Drivers' Championship with their names etched in the history books are Brian Sears & Yannick Gingras 2007 co-champions, Yannick Gingras 2008 Champion, Jason Bartlett 2009 Champion, and 2010's Champion Ron Pierce.

If the cut off date for the 2011 Drivers' Championship were today (which it isn't – the 2011 cut off date is the standings as of Sunday, August 7) the top seven money-winning drivers in North America would be: Tim Tetrick, George Brennan, Jody Jamieson, Ron Pierce, Brian Sears, Jason Bartlett, and Yannick Gingras.

The leading money-winning driver at Tioga Downs right now is a newcomer to the racetrack this year in driver – trainer Ed Hensley, and the sponsor's exemption for 2011?

You will just have to wait until we release it later this summer.

"This is the event that all of us at Tioga look forward to, you put nine guys of this caliber out on a racetrack going for this kind of money you get one heck of an event," said Jason M. Settlemoir, VP of Racing and Simulcast. "With the new leg at The Meadowlands this year we think it will just entice more fans to watch the event and just build excitement for the final the next weekend at Tioga. Our sponsors in this industry and our local area have helped us more and more with this event each year and we truly appreciate their hand in this year's Drivers' Championship."

As if the Drivers' Championship weren't enough, for the first time ever the $420,000e Zweig Memorial Trot will join the same card as the Drivers' Championship.

Last year's Zweig Memorial featured Hambletonian runner-up Lucky Chucky winning a division along with a world record mile by Temple Of Doom in 1:52.4.

The list of eligibles for the 2011 Zweig includes Manofmanymissions, Swan In A Million, Live Jazz, Big Rigs, and Charlie De Vie.

Headlining the list of eligibles in the filly division includes New York's superstar filly Jezzy, one of Pennsylvania's top filly trotters Cedar Dove, Celebrity Katie, and Miss Sue V.

Tioga Downs would like to thank its sponsors for the 2011 Drivers' Championship: Accumark, Allerage Farms, All Event's Engraving, Big Dee's Tack and Vet Supplies, Binghamton Senators, Bow River Jewelry, Community Press, Coon and Son's, Climans Green Liang Architects, Delaware County Fair, Dig Safely, Elmira Jackals, Evolution Racing LLC, Ferris Tractor, Figisbig.com, Harness Racing Hall of Fame, Horsemen & Fair World Magazine, Hub International, Jim Riegle Colors, Larson Design Group, Lexington Select Yearling Sale, LV Harkness, Mainesource, Maitland Trifecta, Nathan's Hot Dogs, Northwood Bloodstock, Oakdale Mall, Ontrack, Roberts Communication Network, STHHA, Tioga State Bank, Winbak Farms, and Youth Beats.

Hello Great Mate scores in Friday Tioga feature


Hello Great Mate and Lewayne Miller used a front-end tactic to take home Friday night's $16,500 featured Fillies and Mares Open Handicap pace.

Leaving from post position number three, Miller cut through fractions of 27.3 and 58.1 before Mike Micallef moved Billie Bluechip first over.

The field turned down the backside and Miller accelerated through a third quarter in 28, tripping three quarters in 1:26.1.

Turning for home, Micallef and Billie Bluechip continued with first-over pressure, but was not strong enough to get by Hello Great Mate in the stretch.

The mile of 1:54.4 was a new seasonal best for the 4-year-old daughter of Allamerican Ingot – Cheery Hello, who is trained by Erv Miller for Kentuckiana Racing Stable of Lexington, KY.

Hello Great Mate returned $15.80 to win.

Billie Bluechip (Mike Micallef) held on for second, while Lizzie’s Dream (Michael Merton) was third.

Fern Paquet Jr. posted a driving triple on the night's nine-race card, while 2011 leading driver, Ed Hensley scored a double.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Saturday, July 9th at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Monday, July 4, 2011

Opal Mine scores at Tioga Downs


Opal Mine and Jim Meittinis made it back-to-back Open Trot victories on Monday afternoon scoring in the $16,500 feature.

Leaving from post position number six, Opal Mine settled in fourth past the quarter pole as The Kentuckian (Greg Merton) took control of the field from Aruba Vacation (Fern Paquet Jr.) in 28.

As the field past by the three-eighth's mile mark, Meittinis moved Opal Mine to take control of the field through a half in 56.3.

Kyle Di Benedetto moved Howd That Feel first over to press the leader past the three quarter mark of the race in 1:25.3.

Around the final turn, Opal Mine clung to the lead but was pressed every step of the way by the pesky first over Howd That Feel.

At the wire, Meittinis and Opal Mine held on to win by a length in 1:55.1.

The win was the ninth victory of the year for the 10-year-old son of Muscles Yankee – Meadowbranch Opal for trainer Tyler Raymer and owners Jim and Linda Meittinis.

Howd That Feel (Kyle Di Benedetto) held on for second, while The Kentuckian (Greg Merton) was third.

Lewayne Miller posted a driving double on the afternoon's 11-race card.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Friday, July 8th at 6:50 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

That's Justice Takes Tioga Downs co-feature on Sunday night


That's Justice and Phil Fluet scored their third win in four starts to take home Sunday night's $16,500 co-featured Open Handicap pace.

Leaving from post position number two, Fluet settled in fourth as Highbetta Blue Chip (Greg Merton) and Winbak Dimensions (Jim Marohn Jr.) battled through fractions of 27.2 and 56.

That's Justice pulled to the outside and received second-over cover from Dragon's Blood (Mike Micallef) as the field went by three quarters in 1:24.2.

Down the stretch, Fluet sent That's Justice three-wide through an all-out assault to get up in the final strides in 1:52.4.

Winbak Dimensions (Jim Marohn Jr.) survived a photo to hold second, while Dragon's Blood (Mike Micallef) was third.

The win was the fifth of the year for the 8-year-old son of Village Jove – Power Persuasion for trainer-owner Tim Lancaster and with the win, increased his seasonal earnings to more than $43,000.

In the $39,400 "Dandy" Final, Mike Micallef and Freedom Crossing launched out from post position number nine and never relinquished the lead.

Cutting through fractions of 27, 56, and 1:23.2, Micallef rebuffed all challengers and opened up in the stretch to win by a comfortable margin in 1:53.2.

The win was the third of the year for the 4-year-old daughter of Artiscape – Bunker To Bunker, who is trained by Kevin Johnson for the Bay Pond Racing Stable of PA.

Virgin Mary (Howard Parker), despite being first over, secured second, while More Diamonds (Jim Meittinis) arrived late on the scene for third.

Phil Fluet posted a driving triple on the night's 10-race card, while Corey Braden and Fern Paquet Jr. each scored doubles.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Monday, July 4th at 1:30 pm.

For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Saturday, July 2, 2011

Rocklamation and Arockin Hanover take Historic Stakes at Tioga Downs


Rocklamation and Corey Braden took home the $76,200 Ladyship Stakes on Saturday night at Tioga Downs in 1:52.2.

Leaving from post position number seven, Braden hustled Rocklamation off the gate and to the lead through the first quarter in 26.4.

As the field straightened up by the three-eighth's mile mark, Andrew McCarthy moved heavy favored Honky Tonk Woman to the front and through a half in 55.1.

Greg Merton moved New Album off the pylons through a first-over grind down the backside reaching three quarters in 1:23.3.

As the field turned for home, Honky Tonk Woman was clinging to the lead, but Braden and Rocklamation found room up the pylons to win by a neck in 1:52.2.

Honky Tonk Woman held tough for second, while New Album was third.

Mark Harder trains and co-owns the 3-year-old daughter of Rocknroll Hanover – Art Sale in partnership with Frost and Stable 45.

In the $62,500 Jersey Cup, only three colt pacers were entered, so the event was raced as a non-wagering event between the second and third races on the card.

Howard Parker, leaving from post position number one, battled early for the lead and put Arockin Hanover and Greg Merton in the two hole through fractions of 27.4, 56, and 1:24.1.

As the field rounded the final turn, Merton pulled Arockin Hanover to the outside and the duo battled to the wire with Arockin Hanover and Greg Merton winning by a head in 1:51.3.

The mile established a new lifetime mark for the 3-year-old son of RocknRoll Hanover – Artaffection for trainer Erv Miller and the ownership group of Carver, Gillis, and Munroe.

Corey Braden posted a driving grand slam on the night's 11-race card, while Ed Hensley had a driving double.

Tioga Downs continues live racing on Sunday, July 3rd at 6:50 pm and will feature fireworks immediately following live racing.

For more information on Tioga Downs please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.

Friday, July 1, 2011

10 pacing fillies in "The Ladyship Stakes" headline Tioga Saturday card


A field of 10 sophomore pacing fillies in the $76,200 Ladyship Stakes will headline Saturday night's 10-race card at Tioga Downs beginning at 6:50 PM.

Given the nod as the 5-2 morning line favorite is Honky Tonk Woman and Andrew McCarthy, who will leave from post position number one in Saturday's third race.

In six starts this year, Honky Tonk Woman has one win and four seconds, good for $137,514 in seasonal earnings for trainer Ross Croghan.

Her lone win came in the Fan Hanover consolation on June 18, when the 3-year-old daughter of Western Ideal – Allamerican Raquel lowered her lifetime mark to 1:50.2.

Below is the field for the $76,200 Ladyship Stakes:
Race 3
$76,200 Ladyship Stakes
3-year-old filly pacers



PP HORSE DRIVER TRAINER
1 Honky Tonk Woman Andrew McCarthy Ross Croghan

2 Asteria Blue Chip Ed Hensley Linda Toscano

3 Winbak Corazon Phil Fluet Phil Fluet

4 JK Soundofmusic Jim Marohn Jr. Linda Toscano

5 Miss Annie J Mike Micallef Linda Toscano

6 Shyaway Dexter Dunn Chris Ryder

7 Rocklamation Corey Braden Mark Harder

8 Shabalabadingdong Lewayne Miller Erv Miller

9 New Album Greg Merton Mark Kesmodel

10 Stash The Cash Victor Kirby Jeff Long

Only three colt pacers entered for the $62,500 Jersey Cup counterpart and will be run as a non-betting race between the second and third race at approximately 7:18 pm.

"The Ladyship Stakes" will be carded as race number three on Saturday night and will be simulcast as part of the Meadowlands Saturday night card.

For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit us online at www.tiogadowns.com.