Nichols, NY – Prairie Panther (Tyler Buter) won the featured $12,000 Open Handicap Pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday (May 12).

Prairie Panther won the featured Open Handicap Pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday. Fred Brown Photo.

After Sir Pugsley (Drew Monti) went to the front and led to the first quarter in :26.3, Prairie Panther ($4)  took control as they went by the stands for the first time.  He led the group to a half of :55 and three-quarters in 1:22.4.  Owned by Laurie Poulin and trainer Mike Deters, he found another gear in the stretch to win by four lengths in 1:52.1.  Americanprimetime (Greg Merton) came on late to finish second.  Bettor’s Edge (Howard Parker) was third best.

Prairie Panther is a 5-year-old gelding by Royel Millennium.  It was his fifth win in eight starts this season and the 26th of his career.

Tyler Buter won three on the day.  His other wins came with New World Order A ($6.30) and A Bettor Hat ($2.90).

Drew Monti teamed up with trainer Joe Skowyra to win a pair on the day.  They got their wins with Weekend Atnannies ($5.50) and The Spy ($22.80)

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Friday (May 17) at 6:15 p.m.

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.