While he was able to draw clear of his four rivals on the far turn, Bourbon Bay ($9.00) needed every last ounce of energy he could muster to stave off late charges from two of his foes in Saturday (August 8) evening's $12,000 Open Trot at Tioga Downs.

Lessee/driver John Cummings Jr. sent the four-year-old Sand Vic gelding right to the front, establishing an easy lead through a :28.1 initial quarter before coasting through a :57.2 half. On the backstretch, Bourbon Bay accelerated clear, amassing a four-length lead over Spice It Up Lindy (Mike Simons) on the far turn. While Spice It Up Lindy was working to stave off the steadily gaining Bound For Fame (Corey Braden) in the battle for second, Bourbon Bay was fully extended in the final 150 yards. Despite his advantage shrinking with every stride, Bourbon Bay held off Spice It Up Lindy to win in 1:54.1 by a diminishing half-length. Bound For Fame closed stoutly just the same, checking in a close third.

Megan Wilson trains Bourbon Bay, who scored his 14th win of the year.

Aaron Byron and Mike Simons led all drivers with three wins apiece on the nine-race card.

(Tioga Downs)