Finalists in another pair of Claim To Fame late-closing series were determined during the Tuesday, Jan. 23 matinee at Miami Valley Raceway.
Tammysmist swept the two preliminary legs in the split for $12,500 claiming mares, establishing herself as the likely favourite in the $22,500 Final Tuesday, Jan. 30. Tyler Smith piloted the seven-year-old Western Maverick mare to a 1:56.3 score for owner Doug Neely and trainer Larry Clabaugh. It was the tenth win in the last year for Tammysmist, who eclipsed the $150,000 lifetime-earnings plateau with the victory.
Others who qualified for the final were Marissa, Melanies Sharkette, Likeafireballshot, Well Wishers, Party Rockin, Cheekie, Schmatie and Rosie Kit.
Giovanni and Guns An Roses tied for the most earnings in the division for $8,000 male claimers. Both enter the $22,500 Final on two-race win streaks and with new owners after being claimed. Giovanni will go postward for new owner Brian Witt and trainer Larry Finn, and Guns An Roses now races for owners Greg Samples and Ross Leonard and races out of the Tyler George barn.
The balance of the field will include Goldstar Lambeau, Royal Cam Hall, Spunky Monkey, Latenite Trick, CC’s Desire, Star Guitar, Anarchy Hanover and Incredible Joey.
(With files from Miami Valley Raceway)