Nichols, NY — April Ava and driver Mike Simons flew home late to capture the $11,000 featured distaff pace at Tioga Downs on Friday (Sept. 13).
April Ava ($7.70) was first to the quarter in :27.2. Then No Cigar Tony (Mike Merton) guided them to the half in :56.0. Jenden Strike (Ron Cushing) then took her turn on the point and led to three-quarters in 1:24.2.
As they reached the stretch, April Ava came flying down the lane like she was shot out of a cannon. She blew right on to win in 1:54.2. So Diva (Jim Pantaleano) came up to finish second. Jenden Strike had to settle for third.
April Ava is an 8-year-old mare by Delmarvalous. She is owned by Dona McDonald and trained by Jim McDonald. It was her fourth win this season. She now has 35 career victories.
Live racing returns to Tioga Downs on Saturday (Sept. 14) with a 15-race card starting at 6:15 p.m.
For more information, go to www.tiogadowns.com.