by John Horne, for Tioga Downs

Nichols, NY — Andreios Kardia (Aaron Byron) won the $12,000 Open Pace at Tioga Downs on a special Sunday night (May 27) card.

Fred Brown photo

Andreios Kardia won the $12,000 Open Pace at Tioga Downs.

Chantepleure (Drew Monti) zoomed to the front and controlled all the early fractions (:26, :54, 1:21.3). Andreios Kardia ($6.40), who is owned by Ina Madill and trained by Jeff Byron, found himself third at the halftime mark. The two-time defending Pacer of the Year at Tioga Downs, charged first-over just before the three-quarter mark. He took the lead at the top of the stretch and held off a late rush by the second place finisher, Time Out I’m Tired (John MacDonald). Finishing third was Lauxmont Capri (Jim Taggart Jr.).

Andreios Kardia, a 7-year-old gelding by Badlands Hanover, finished the mile in 1:50.2. It was his third win of the season and the 29th time he has been in the winner’s circle in his career.

Aaron Byron had two more winners on the night. His first win came with Joe’s Life ($5.60), who is owned by Rocco Stebbins and trained by Joe Skowyra. His other win came with Frontier Seelster ($9.50). The 4-year-old gelding is owned by Cody Hawkins and trained by Doug Bowins.

Fans received patriotic red, white and blue hats and enjoyed fireworks after racing.

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Friday (June 1) at 6:15 p.m. For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.