Nichols, NY — Driver Mike Merton and trainer Rob Harmon combined to get five wins on Sunday (July 9) at Tioga Downs.

Merton and Harmon have always been a force at Tioga but on Sunday, they brought it to another level.  They got their five wins with JB Mauney N ($2.60), Northern Cardinal ($9.80), Colonel Bayama ($3.40), Saulsbrook Hero ($6.50), and Higherthananeagle ($10.60).

Hesa Kingslayer N (Ridge Warren) captured the $12,000 Open 1 Pace.

Hesa Kingslayer N scored a victory in the Sunday feature at Tioga Downs. Fred Brown Photo.

Hesa Kingslayer N ($3.40) took the lead and led to the first quarter in :27.3.  He used a :29.1 second quarter to be first to the half in :57.1.  Rifleman (Tyler Miller) was first to make a move going first-up from third as they traveled down the backstretch.  Hesa Kingslayer N was first to three-quarters in 1:24.4.

As they made the turn for home Hesa Kingslayer N shook off Rifleman.  Tiger Baron (Tyler Miller) became the major danger and came charging down the lane.  Hesa Kingslayer N dug in and hung on to win 1:52.1.  Tiger Baron had to settle for second.  Rifleman finished third.

Hesa Kingslayer N is a 10-year-old gelding by Christian Cullen.  He is owned by Joel Warner and trainer Mike Deters.  It was his first win this season.  He now owns 22 career victories.

Warren drove three winners on the card.  Driver-trainer Jack McNeil swept the amateur events.  He got his wins with I’ve Got Hootspa and Majestic Sunset.

Live racing returns to Tioga Downs on Friday (July 14) starting at 6:15 p.m.

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.