Nichols, NY — Flag Party (Joe Chindano Jr.) captured the $14,500 featured Open Pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday (June 21), taking a lifetime mark in victory.
Flag Party ($3.18) stormed to the front and led to the quarter in :26.3 before pressing on to the half with a :28.1 second quarter (:54.4 half). He continued to set the tempo, leading the field of five open pacers to three quarters in 1:22.
Turning for home, Flag Party widened his advantage. Second-place finisher Rockstar Artist (Colin Kelly) made a late bid, but Flag Party won easily, crossing the wire 2-1/4 lengths in front in a lifetime best 1:50. Mirragon A (Jim Pantaleano) was third best.
Flag Party is a 5-year-old gelding by Stag Party out of the Badlands Hanover mare Sassafras Girl. He is owned by Jeff Savidge, Michael De Saye, Richard Dimaio, and Chindano Jr. while trained by Jennina Shaw. It was his fifth win this season. He now has 19 career victories to his credit.
The “Michigan Missile” Braxten Boyd had another strong driving performance at Tioga, tallying five wins Sunday. He steered Twin B Manhunt, Livonjaxandqueens, American Pastime, Aces Or Bettor and Caviart Skipper to the winner’s circle. Colin Kelly and Tom Merton collected driving hat tricks.
Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Friday (June 26) with starting at 6:15 p.m. For more information visit www.tiogadowns.com.