Matai Phil N fended off multiple attacks as he cut the mile in a career-best effort to capture the $15,972 featured conditioned pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday, June 7.

Matai Phil N went to the front for Braxten Boyd and led unopposed through first-half splits of :27 and :56.1. Major Hothooves N (Colin Kelly) was first to make a move, going first-over from third down the backstretch and pacing alongside Matai Phil N at three-quarters in 1:23.3.

The leader shook off that challenger as he turned for home, then came under renewed pressure as pocket-sitter Cruzin America (Mike Merton) slid out and gave everything he had in the stretch. Matai Phil N dug in and held off his foe to win by a half-length in 1:51. Always B Elvis (Jim Pantaleano) finished third.

Matai Phil N improved to three-for-17 on the season for trainer Agostino Abbatiello and owner Durazzano Stable LLC. The six-year-old gelding by Washington Vc-Matai Katie took his 10th career victory in 49 appearances. He paid $3.14 to win.

Colin Kelly and Braxten Boyd each drove three winners on the nine-race card. James Kennedy had a driving double. Trainers Bruce Clarke and Enrico Robinson tallied twice each.

Tioga Downs is set to host its next card on Friday, June 12, starting at 6:15 p.m.

(With files from Tioga Downs)