by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

It must be something about that racetrack at Buffalo Raceway that gives a little something extra to the winning horses there who then ship to Monticello Raceway for competition.

A few weeks ago after winning seven of eight races El Paso Hanover moved on to the Mighty M and continued his winning ways and in the process earned a new lifetime record of 1:55:4 when he won the weekly open pace on April 27.

Now I’m All Speed, co-owned by William Williams, Jr., William Kendrat and Arnold Marks, who was victorious in a time of 1:56:3 in her last outing which was at Buffalo Raceway, has duplicated El Paso Hanover’s feat.

On Monday afternoon, May 9 I’m All Speed, in rein to Josh Marks, romped to a three length triumph in Monticello Raceway’s open handicap for fillies and mares defeating seven rivals in a time of 1:55:4.

But for the four year old daughter of Presidential Ball, her victory not only was a new lifetime mark but a new track record for her age and gait. It erased the former standard of 1:56:1 set last August by Caitlin Q who was driven by Mike Merton.

“We were just cruising along on the front end and she felt real strong so I just wanted to see what she had in her,” a jubilant Josh Marks said after his victory. “This is a family horse. My parents worked long and hard for many years to get a mare like this and I’m really happy for them.”

Second in the track record mile was That’s A Party Girl, driven by Larry Stalbaum and third place went to Sandtana Score N and driver Jimmy Devaux.

Dismissed in the wagering I’m All Speed returned a $10.40 win mutuel.

When Marks was asked for his opinion on why Buffalo Raceway horses improve so much when they ship to Monticello Raceway he had a quick and easy explanation.

“The (Monticello) track is in great shape. The trackman here is doing a good job,” he chirped..