Yonkers, NY — Trainer John Butenschoen is confessing to a luck of the draw when it comes to his success this year in the New York Sire Stakes. He alludes to this year being one of his best; he currently stands fifth in trainer earnings as he approaches the $1.8 million New York Night of Champions on Sept. 12 at Yonkers Raceway.

Destined To Dance stands atop the points for trotters with a perfect five-for-five in NYSS starts this season. Besjon Doda photo.

One of the horses boosting his purse earnings is Destined To Dance (Chapter Seven-Go Go Dancer). The freshman filly stands atop the points for trotters with a perfect five-for-five in NYSS starts this season. She drew post three in her $225,000 final Saturday.

Destined To Dance earned the title as the fastest 2-year-old filly trotter in Tioga Downs history after a 1:54.4 effort in her last NYSS start on Aug. 23.

“We just had the right horses at the right time. It’s kind of worked out and I didn’t realize our luck at first,” said Butenschoen. “It always feels good when you are on top. It means we are doing something right.”

Butenschoen trains for co-owner/breeder Crawford Farms and co-owners Heritage Standardbreds and Rich Preziotti.

Butenschoen also credits the connection between the filly and her driver, Tyler Buter.

“They just get along. Tyler has done a great job with her,” said Butenschoen. “Once Tyler picked up the drive and won at Saratoga, we kept them together. I believe that if somebody wins, you leave them up for their next start.”

Butenschoen has been talking with the owners about the filly’s dance card once the New York season wraps. He may take her to Indiana for several events.

“She’s not a real big filly so we have yet to decide where we want to go. If she is staying healthy, we will play it race by race,” he said.

New York’s richest night of harness racing returns to Yonkers Raceway this Saturday. Eight final events featuring the best state-bred 2- and 3-year-olds will be contested for $225,000 purses each. Post time is 7:12 p.m. A full list of entries can be found here.