Nichols, NY — Livonjaxandqueens and Braxten Boyd hung on to win the $15,500 featured Open Pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday (June 28), keeping a head in front at the wire in a time of 1:51.
Favored Livonjaxandqueens ($4.42) went to the front from post five and led to the quarter in a quick :26.1. He used a :28.4 second quarter to be first to the half in :55. Flag Party (Joe Chindano) was first to make a move as they headed to the final turn, with Hunting Zone (Collin Kelly) following in the outer flow. Livonjaxandqueens shook off the challenge and paced to the third station in 1:22.
As they reached the stretch, second-place finisher Red Blooded (Jim Pantaleano) slipped through on the inside and bid for the lead. Livonjaxandqueens dug in as Red Blooded rallied up the rail and held on to claim the narrow win. Hunting Zone charged late to finish third.
Livonjaxandqueens is a 6-year-old horse by American Ideal. He is owned by Howard and Andrew Ouriel while trained by James Rothfuss. It was his fourth win this season. He now has 28 career victories to his credit.
Boyd and Lauren Tritton each scored driving triples, while Pantaleano and Tom Merton had driving doubles. Trainers Shane Tritton, McKenzie Sowers, and Mike Deters each sent out two winners.
Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Friday (July 3) with starting at 6:15 p.m. For more information visit www.tiogadowns.com.