by Anthony Byers, assistant race secretary Tioga Downs

Nichols, NY — Tioga Downs held its first qualifying races of the season on Friday (April 18) under a perfect spring sky. Twelve horses attempted to qualify in the two races held.

As the horses and drivers made their way onto the track, they were met with beautiful weather and pristine track conditions. New Track Superintendant Richard Pirog has the track in excellent shape. He has brought the track back to its original specifications by resurfacing the track and re-establishing the banking found at other euro-designed tracks.

“The track is as good as I have ever seen it,” said trainer/driver Joe Osmeloski. “Today I qualified my filly two seconds faster than she’s ever gone before.”

Future qualifying sessions will be held on Friday, April 25, and a special night time qualifier on Monday, April 28, at 7:00 p.m. The racing season kicks-off on Saturday, May 3.

For more information please visit www.tiogadowns.com or call the race office at (607) 699-7688.