Nichols, NY — Prairie Panther (Ridge Warren) captured the featured $11,000 Open II Handicap Pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday (May 28).

Prairie Panther won in 1:52. Fred Brown photo.

Tuggin On My Heart (Aaron Byron) took the lead and led to the first quarter in :26.1. He used a :29.2 second quarter to be first to the half in :55.3. Prairie Panther ($7.90) made his move first-over going down the backstretch. Tuggin On My Heart was still first to three-quarters in 1:23.3.

As they made the turn for home, Prairie Panther took over the lead and had to brace for the late charge from second place finisher Son Of A Tiger N (Mike Merton) and third place finisher Rifleman (Brandon Parker). Prairie Panther was too strong and won in 1:52.

Prairie Panther is 9-year-old gelding by Royel Millennium. He is owned by trainer Mike Deters and Joel Warner. It was his third win this season and the 65th of his career.

Marcus Miller drove three winners on the card. Deters had a training double.

Live racing returns to Tioga Downs on Friday (June 2) starting at 6:15 p.m. For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.