Nichols, NY — KJ Hunter (Jim Taggert Jr.) took the $12,500 featured pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday (September 10).

Bluesville (Mike Merton) grabbed the early lead but KJ Hunter ($21.40) went by just before hitting the quarter first in :27.2.  He used a :28,1 second quarter to lead to the half in :55.3.  He cruised to three-quarters in 1:23.0.

KJ Hunter scored impressively in the feature at Tioga Downs. Fred Brown Photo.

KJ Hunter led going into the stretch.  Sling Shock (Corey Braden) made a late move diving to the inside.  KJ Hunter dug in and won in a lifetime best of 1:51.2. Sling Shock had to settle for second.  Machiatto A (Ridge Warren) finished third.

KJ Hunter is a 4-year-old gelding by Huntsville.  He is trained by Gary Messenger for owners Brenda Messenger and Scott Woogen.  It was his ninth win this season and his 16^th career victory.

Leading Driver Mike Merton and leading trainer Rob Harmon had another good day together at Tioga.  Merton drove four winners on the card.  He combined with Harmon for wins with Cellmate, Noted A, and Takemetothelimit GB.  His other win came with Regal Escape.  Jim Taggert Jr. added a driving triple..

Live racing returns on Friday (September 15) starting at 6:15 p.m.

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.