by James Witherite, Tioga Downs racing media

Nichols, NY — Fresh off her upset in the Earl Rowe Memorial at Georgian Downs nine days ago, Rockin With Dewey ($5.40, part of entry) once again sustained a first-over bid en route to victory, collaring millionaire Classic Martine in a $40,000 Miss Versatility leg on Monday (Sept. 7) afternoon at Tioga Downs.

Fred Brown photo

Rockin With Dewey collared millionaire Classic Martine in Monday afternoon’s $40,000 Miss Versatility.

Away last in the field of five, the 5-year-old daughter of Deweycheatumnhowe commenced her rally with a circuit to go, beginning to advance as 3-5 favorite Classic Martine (Matt Kakaley) cleared the lead.

After a :56.3 half-mile, Bob McClure turned up the pressure with Rockin With Dewey, closing to within a length of Classic Martine through a 1:24.4 three-quarter sectional. The two dueled through the far turn, and Rockin With Dewey ultimately wore down her main adversary, prevailing by three-quarters of a length in 1:53.1.

Trainer Benoit Baillargeon co-owns Rockin With Dewey with Diane Ingham.

In addition to the Miss Versatility, the 13-race program featured a pair of sub-featured Open events — one for trotters and one for pacers.

The $14,000 Open Trot saw Bourbon Bay ($4.10) set blistering fractions, fully extended on the far turn, but able to hold sway from Smoother Ride in 1:54.1.

In the $14,000 Open Pace, JK Panache ($18.80) likewise controlled the terms, holding off the steadily advancing Rockeyed Optimist for a 1:50.2 triumph.

John Cummings Jr. handled the driving duties of both Open winners on the day.

Live racing returns to Tioga Downs on Thursday (Sept. 10) evening, with post time at 6:15 p.m. (EDT).