Saratoga star Bontz N returned to prominence off a drop in class to win the $5,300 featured pace at Saratoga Casino Hotel on Tuesday (Oct. 6).
Leading driver Billy Dobson piloted the nine-year-old veteran and moved her to the early lead. Just a few dollars shy of being the favourite, Bontz N carved the fractions on the engine, with the first lap timed in :57. The 7-5 favourite Gina Grace N rode the coattails of Bontz N throughout the mile before getting a clear chance at Bontz N in the stretch. Though the chase was futile as Bontz N recorded her sixth victory of the season, stopping the timer in 1:54.2 in her decisive score. Gina Grace N was the runner-up while Tipperary Hill earned the show spot.
Bontz N, who was one of the track’s top pacing mares while a nominee for Filly and Mare Pacer of the Year in 2019, has been the leading lady again in 2020 for Gary Levine and owner April Aldrich of Greenfield Center, NY.
Live racing resumes on Monday afternoon (Oct. 12) with a first post time set for 12 p.m. (EDT). There will be a carryover of $5,257 in the Pick Five on Monday, with that wager beginning in the matinee’s opener.
(with files from Saratoga Casino Hotel)