Nichols, NY — Itsonlymoneyhoney and Mike Merton took the $12,000 Open Trot at Tioga Downs on Saturday (May 21).

Itsonlymoneyhoney ($15.20) jumped right off the gate and went right to the front through a :27 quarter before backing the half down to :56.3. Muskingum (Joe Chindano Jr.) was first to make a move, going first-up headed for the final turn, but Itsonlymoneyhoney maintained his lead to three-quarters in 1:25.1.

As they made the turn for home, Highland Mowgli (Aaron Byron) popped the pocket and went all-out after the leader. Itsonlymoneyhoney dug in and got the victory in a lifetime best of 1:54.2. Highland Mowgli had to settle for second; Crossfit Mouse (Corey Braden) finished third.

Itsonlymoneyhoney repelled a late challenge from Highland Mowgli to register a new lifetime mark in Saturday’s Open Trot at Tioga Downs. Fred Brown photo.

Itsonlymoneyhoney is a 5-year-old gelding by Banker Volo trained by Patti Harmon for owners Harmon Racing Stable, John Campagnuolo and Winners Circle Racing. It was his second win this season. He now owns 21 career victories.

Wally Hennessey drove four winners on the card. He combined with trainer Mike Deters for three of them. They won with Prairie Westerngal ($3.90), The Stunning Nun N ($2.80) and American Delight ($3.40). Hennessey’s other win came with Mickey ($2.60).

Live racing returns to Tioga Downs on Sunday (May 22) with a 10-race card starting at 1 p.m. For more information, go to tiogadowns.com.