BJ Lorado (Jim Meittinis) cruises to victory in the Tioga Downs featured trot ($10,000) on Saturday (August 25).
BJ Lorado ($6.00) hit the first quarter in 27.0. and then was first to the halfway marker in :57.3. Trained by Marc Major for Owners Michael and Diane Norcross, he let loose in the backstretch leading by four lengths as he hit three quarters in 1:25.2. He would cross the finish line in 1:55.2 Cashahallic (Corey Braden) would chase the whole way to finish second. Zaraze (Bruce Clarke) would be third best.
BJ Lorado is a 4-year-old gelding by Bo W. He won for the second straight time and seventh time this season. He captured his 11th career victory.
Mike Merton had three driving wins on the night. He won with Vicki All ($6.40), Tropical Trice ($3.60), and Hurricane Howard ($11.20).
Trainers Gary Messenger and Mike Deters continue to battle it out for the Trainers win title. Messenger currently leads with 33 wins so far this meet. Deters is two behind with 31 trips to the winner's circle. Joe Skowyra is third with 17 wins. Patti Harmon is in fourth with 17 tallies. Marc Major is fifth with 15 wins.
It is Corntastic weekend at Tioga. Bill Stepanosky won the popular corn eating contest.
Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Sunday (August 26) featuring W.N. Memorial Reynold for both freshman pacers and trotters. Post time for the 12 race card is 1:00 p.m.
For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com
by John Horne, for Tioga Downs