Mike Merton enjoyed a banner 2018, capturing his first ever dash-winning title at Monticello Raceway, while Bob Lounsbury earned his fourth training title at the Catskill Mountain oval.
Raised on the backstretch of Monticello Raceway as a youngster, the 47-year-old Merton is no stranger to the 'Mighty M,' amassing 267 wins to defeat former Monticello driving champion Bruce Aldrich Jr., who finished second with 235. Austin Siegelman took third honours with 228 trips to the winner's circle.
Merton hit the road hard this summer, also winning the driving championship at Tioga Downs with 82 wins. Between Monticello and Tioga, Merton amassed over $1.4 million in purses and 349 wins. His overall season tally of 376 wins ranked him 16th in the United States.
Mike Merton (left) and Bob Lounsbury (right) took the 2018 Monticello Raceway driving and training titles respectively.
Lounsbury, who also took top training honours at Monticello in 2013, 2014, and 2015, bested Gary Messenger in the seasonal standings, 93-80. Lounsbury's stable earned over $300,000 in 330 starts at Monticello through the 2018 season.
(with files from Monticello Raceway)