Trainer Jenn Bongiorno likes what she sees from the recently acquired Somegirlsomewherea, a hard-hitting mare who took the Friday night feature at The Meadowlands to stay perfect in two North American starts.
“Mike Tanev of M T Stables does a wonderful job picking out horses and bringing them over,” said Bongiorno. “I cannot say enough about the quality of horses he brings us.”
In her debut for the Bongiorno stable, Australian import Somegirlsomewherea easily bested her foes in a non-winners of $7,500 last week, and her trainer thought she’d be ready to beat the group of non-winners of $12,500 for pacing females she faced on Friday.
“I absolutely knew she could handle this class,” said Bongiorno, who is tied with Ron Burke atop The Big M trainer standings with 19 victories at the Fall Meet. “I never like to put pressure on my horses, but I know she’s very nice and will continue to blossom.”
A six-year-old daughter of Somebeachsomewhere-Nothing Else Matters, Somegirlsomewherea popped out of the four-hole at the five-eighths before gradually grinding down leader and 2-1 second choice in the wagering, I Love Ongait, with about an eighth-of-a-mile to go. She then had to hold off a late-charging So Irresistible by a long nose in 1:51.1 to record her 10th lifetime win in 60 starts. Love Me Hill was third.
School continues to be in session for the horse.
“[Driver] Joe [Bongiorno, Jenn’s brother] has let her learn for two starts,” said Jenn, “and she seems to be very happy doing her job.”
Somegirlsomewherea returned $4 to win as the even-money favourite.
After winning seven races last weekend, Dexter Dunn was named The Meadowlands’ Driver of the Week. Apparently, that was to the 33-year-old Kiwi’s liking, as he stayed red hot by winning four times on the card. … Dave Miller guided three to victory lane, including 25-1 chance Bet Big On Blue in the 12th race. … All-source handle totalled $2,438,643. … Racing resumes Saturday at 6:20 p.m.
(With files from The Meadowlands)