The fifth race at the Meadowlands on Thursday appeared to be just another race, but for driver Joe Bongiorno it turned out to be a very memorable one.
A victory with trotter Chocoholic helped Bongiorno become the teenage driver with the most wins in Meadowlands Racetrack history. He surpassed the mark of Susan Looney, who owns the win as the youngest driver in the track’s history.
After a quick give and go past the opening quarter, Chocoholic and Bongiorno led the field into the stretch, opening up a three-length lead. Bongiorno went to work and Chocoholic responded, tripping the timer in 1:56.2.
“I didn’t even know what was going on,” said Bongiorno, “I was just trying to win a race. It’s great to drive at The Meadowlands, but to break any kind of record at the world’s greatest harness track is special.”
Dave Miller also scored a driving triple on the card as he tries to stay within shouting distance of leading driver, Yannick Gingras.
On the wagering front, the bettors responded once again as this marked another Thursday night that went past $2 Million, with the final tally of $2,026,337.
TVG will have a presence all weekend long on-site at the Meadowlands as they promote the transition of New Jersey Account Wagering and 4NJBETS.COM to being powered by TVG, effective Friday. Tom Cassidy and Paul Loduca will broadcast live Friday and Saturday afternoon, covering thoroughbred action from across the country. Later, Darin Zoccali will join Tom Cassidy Friday and Saturday evening covering the live harness action at the Meadowlands.
(With files from Meadowlands Racetrack)
To view results for Thursday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Thursday Results – Meadowlands Racetrack.