by Jeff Zidek, for the MSOA

Washington, PA — Twelve groups of freshmen qualified at The Meadows on Wednesday morning (June 8), as the youngsters continue to prepare for their initial season of racing.

Leading the way on the trotting gait was Kid Formula, a full brother to stakes winner Dream Kid. The son of Cincinnati Kid-Kandy Angus trotted in 2:00.3. Dave Palone sent Kid Formula right to the front, cutting the half in 1:01 before coming home in :59.3. Like his older brother Dream Kid, Kid Formula is a member of the Ron Burke Stable and will likely head to Indiana for much of the stakes season.

On the pacing side, a pair of colts covered their respective miles in 1:57.4 to lead the speed chart. First up was Papa Ray, a modest $1,800 yearling purchase last year at the New Jersey Classic Sale, for trainer/driver Ernest Masci, Jr. The son of Village Jolt-Liamatters opened up a six length lead at the half in :58.3 before holding on for a one length win.

Later in the session, it was Babe’s I Scoot (I Scoot Hanover-Sports Babe), who came from fourth at the half under Palone’s guidance to score a half-length win. The final half-mile went in :57.1, with Babe’s I Scoot making up five lengths. Ron Burke trains the colt, a $22,000 yearling purchase at the Hoosier Classic Sale last fall.

Video of the full qualifying session will be available by Thursday afternoon on the website of the Meadows Standardbred Owners Association, www.themsoa.com.