Nichols, NY — Braxten Boyd and Mike Merton had driving grand slams at Tioga Downs on Sunday (August 3).
Boyd got his first win of the afternoon with Rio in the featured $15,000 Open Pace.
Rio ($17.20) took the lead and led to the quarter in :27.1. Vindiemen Bluechip (Ridge Warren) took command with a lap to and led to the half in :55.2. Mirragon N (Jim Pantaleano) was first to make a move as they headed down the backstretch. Vindiemen Bluechip was first to three-quarters in 1:22.2.
As they reached the stretch Rio blasted out of the pocket and blew right on by second place finisher Vindiemen Bluechip to win in 1:49.4. Sea Of Life (Dan Rawlings) finished third.
Rio is a 4-year-old gelding by Sweet Lou. He is owned by Jack Platt III and trained by Tee Wine. It was his seventh win this season. He now has nine career victories.
Boyd then won races 9, 10, 11. The “Michigan Missile” got his other wins with Manhawk, PL Quesadilla, and Lennon Hanover.
Merton won the first two races of the afternoon combining with trainer Rob Harmon. Their wins came with Smokin Hot Scott and JP Hoodini. “Magic Mike” got his other wins with Gold Star Sven and Jabbar.
Maple (owned by Jackie Jackson) won the Basset Hounds dog final on Sunday.
Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Friday (August 8) with a post time of 6:15 p.m.
For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.