by Tom Kelley, publicity director, Balmoral Park

Crete, IL — The Illinois conceived and foaled stakes season continued to wind down on Wednesday night (Nov. 22) as 3-year-old trotting fillies stepped into the spotlight for an Illinois Standardbred Owners & Breeders Association Stake. Carded as a non-wagering event prior to the start of the big 12-race Wednesday card, this tussle carried a jackpot of $12,630.

Taking advantage of the absence of division stars Victors Finesse and Go Go Gabby, Julius Munie’s Tomato strolled to an easy three length decision in 1:59.4.

Driver Dave Magee handled the daughter of Valley Victor with his usual Hall of Fame preciseness, settling Tomato into third as Peaceful Victory cruised through a pedestrian opening split of :31.1.

Having seen enough of the slow pace, Magee wheeled his filly off the pylons as the field headed down the backstretch. Trotting with a purpose, Tomato easily made the lead, showing the way by the halfway station in 1:00.2.

The issue was never really in doubt from that point on as Magee managed to grab a breather on the far turn. Still fit and fresh, Tomato rolled by the three-quarter-mile marker in a leisurely 1:31.4.

Moving through the lane Tomato quickly stepped away to a two length advantage. The pocket sitting Peaceful Victory (Mike Oosting) gallantly tried to cut into the lead but the effort was in vain as Tomato continued to widen her margin, reporting home with her fifth win of the season. Peaceful Victory settled for the bridesmaid role while Racy Remarque (Del Chupp) was a distant third, nine lengths behind the winner.

Trained by Roger Welch, Tomato now sports a record of 5-4-3 in 19 starts this season. The winner’s check of $6,315 helped push this filly’s sophomore bankroll up to $59,175.