by Freehold Raceway

Freehold, NJ — Driver Joe Bongiorno scored his 1000th victory Friday (Oct. 21) at Freehold Raceway guiding Fathers Amiga for trainer Chris Marino in 1:59.

Photo courtesy of Freehold Raceway

Joe Bongiorno collects career triumph 1,000 in the sulky at Freehold Raceway on Friday.

The 23-year-old native of Colts Neck, N.J. had his first pari-mutuel drive just five short years ago at this very facility with Mr. Bennett, which landed him in the winner’s circle.

Bongiorno comes from a family of Hall of Fame horsemen. He is the grandson of the late Harold (Sonny) Dancer and the son of Robert and Barbara Bongiorno. A graduate of Colts Neck High School, he began jogging horses at 14 years of age at Showplace Farms. He knew after his first time out on the track this is what he wanted to do with his life.

“Although every time I get to the winners circle, it is an amazing accomplishment, it is extra special to win with a family owned horse,” Bongiorno said.

This weekend he is programmed to drive two horses in his first Breeders Crown appearance in eliminations at the Meadowlands. The horses he will be steering are Regil Elektra for trainer Keith Armer and Southwind Woody for trainer Ron Burke.

Freehold Raceway resumes live racing on Saturday (Oct. 22). Post time is 12:30 p.m.