Fall Bliss captures Tioga's Sunday afternoon feature

Fall Bliss and Mark MacDonald captured Sunday afternoon's $16,500 open pace at Tioga Downs in a new lifetime best of 1:50.3.

Starting from post position number four in a field of six, MacDonald settled in fifth as Vlos (Eric Carlson) cut through fractions of 26.1, 54.2, and 1:22.2. As the field passed three quarters, Voice Of Truth (Fern Paquet Jr.) were first over on the outside with Fall Bliss tracking his cover.

Mark MacDonald and Fall Bliss win Sunday's feature

Around the final turn Fall Bliss surged off of Paquet's helmet and in a matter of strides grabbed control of the racetrack down the stretch. Vlos fought back gamely in the lane but had to settle for second, while Big Bay Point (Lewayne Miller) after sitting a pocket trip finished third.

Scott Blackler trains the 4-year-old son of Blissful Hall – Fall Festival, who won for the fifth time in 19 seasonal outings this year. With the win, Fall Bliss increased bankroll to more than $59,000 on the season.

Tioga Downs races next Friday and Saturday at 6:50 pm, and Sunday afternoon at 1:30 pm.

There will also be a special holiday card on Wednesday, July 4^th at 6:50 pm capped off by a fireworks display following live racing.

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