Nichols, NY – Livonjaxandqueens (Tom Merton) captures the $16,500 Open Pace on Sunday (Aug. 9) at Tioga Downs.
Livonjaxandqueens ($17.74) sprinted out to the lead and led to the quarter in :27.3. He used a :28.1 second quarter to be first to the half in :55.4. Vengeance Bluechip (Mike Merton) came first-up from fourth to challenge for the lead heading down the backstretch. Livonjaxandqueens made it to three quarters first in 1:22.3.
As they reached the stretch, second place finisher Vengeance Bluechip continued to pressure the leader. Livonjaxandqueens found another gear and dug in to win in 1:50.2. Aroda N (Lauren Tritton) finished third best.
Livonjaxandqueens is a 6-year-old horse by American Ideal. He is trained by James Rothfuss for owners Howard and Andrew Ouriel. It was his fifth win this season and his 29th career victory.
Jim Pantaleano had a driving grand slam. He combined with trainer Mike Deters (training triple) for wins with Elmer Hanover, Mirragon A, and Mea Culpa A. Pantaleano got his other win with None Better A. Lauren Tritton and Mike Merton had driving triples. Braxten Boyd had a driving double. Rob Harmon had a training double.
Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Friday (Aug. 14) starting at 6:15 p.m. For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.