Nichols, NY — Mike Merton drove four winners including the $6,500 featured trot with Clarion Hall at Tioga Downs on Saturday (Aug. 22). 

In the feature, Prairie Fortune (Mike Simons) passed Groovey Kid (Wally Hennessey) just before hitting the first quarter in:28.2.  Prairie Fortune used a :28.3 second quarter to hit the half in :57.  He would open at four lengths as they hit three-quarters in 1:25. 

As they went around the final turn Clarion Hall ($15.60) moved first-over into second and went on the chase.  Prairie Fortune went on a break in the stretch.  Clarion Hall (Merton) inherited the lead and had to brace for a late charge from second-place finisher Uncle Hanover (Kyle DiBenedetto) to win in 1:55.1.  Groovey Joe (Wally Hennessey) was third best.   

Clarion Hall is a 6-year-old gelding by Windsong Espoir.  He is owned by Michael Spaccerelli and trained by Rob Harmon.  It was his fifth win this season and his 19th career victory. 

Merton got his other wins with Bravo Tex N ($4.40), Lightfootedlegend ($12.80), and Devissor ($4.10).  

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Sunday (August 23).  The 15-race card features the $223,500 Empire Breeders Classic (EBC) for 3-year-old pacing fillies as well as the $240,600 EBC for 3-year-old pacing colts & geldings.  Post time is 1 p.m.  

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.