by Lynne Snierson, publicity director, Rockingham Park

Salem, NH — A pair of trotters hit the wire simultaneously at Rockingham Park on Wednesday, July 2, and it is believed to be the first dead heat for trotters since live harness racing was brought back to the track in 2003.

McCoy, driven by John Beckwith, and Machu Picchu, partnered with Richard Wojcio, finished in an identical 1:58.3 on a fast track in the second race. McCoy, a 4-year-old gelding, returned $10.00, $7.00, and $3.40 while Machu Picchu, a 6-year-old horse, paid $9.20, $7.80, and $4.00. Due to the dead heat, there were two different prices for the perfecta, trifecta, superfecta, and daily double wagers.

Also on Wednesday, Brewer Adams won the third race with Jate’s Jake to break a tie with Jonathan Roberts atop the driver standings. Adams now has 41 wins to Roberts’ 40 and he is also the leading trainer after 21 days of live racing during the current meet.

Due to a violent thunder and lightning storm that struck with torrential downpours after the third race, the fourth race was delayed for just shy of an hour. When racing was able to resume, the track was rated as sloppy.

Live racing will be conducted over the Fourth of July holiday weekend on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with post times of 1:05 p.m. each day. Also during the holiday weekend, Rockingham will hold a Pet Food Drive to benefit the New Hampshire Food Bank and help people in need to feed their beloved companion animals.