Nichols, NY — Melanion N and driver Ridge Warren triumphed in the $11,500 featured pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday (July 19) with a 1:51.2 performance.
Melanion N ($4.78) and Warren charged out of the gate and went to the front, leading to the opening quarter in :26.3. He slowed things down with a :29 second quarter to be first to the half in :55.3. Major Hothooves N (Colin Kelly) took his shot as they headed down the backstretch going first-up from fourth. Melanion N maintained control to three quarters (1:23.1), and when Major Hothooves N went all out after the lead, the favorite was up for the challenge and won easily by 1-3/4-lengths. Villiam, piloted by Joe Chindano Jr., finished third.
Melanion N is a 9-year-old gelding by Bettor’s Delight. He is owned and trained by Brianne Sinclair. The victory is the sixth seasonal win. Melanion N is now a 22-time victor.
Braxten Boyd guided three winners on the Sunday card, while Mike Merton collected a driving double. Trainers Rob Harmon and Jody Riedel each sent out two winners.
Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Friday (July 24) starting at 6:15 p.m. For more information visit www.tiogadowns.com.