The horses in the $20,714 Open Pace at Buffalo Raceway on Saturday, April 5 couldn't beat the rain or Melanion N ($4.90) either as he romped to a 3-3/4 length victory over Stranger Things in 1:56.1.
When the 12-program started, the track was listed as fast under cloudy conditions but the moderate showers moved in before the feature, causing the track to be downgraded to good. The change in weather and track conditions didn't bother Melanion N, however, who just returned to New York after a three-race stint at Woodbine Mohawk Park.
Assigned to the seven post in the eight-horse field, Melanion N (Drew Monti) was parked and needed more than the opening quarter mile to clear to the front. But once reaching the point, Melanion N cruised through splits of :28.2, :57.3 and 1:27.3.
Heading down the lane, Melanion N faced no challengers as the biggest battle was who could get the minor spoils. Stranger Things (Shawn McDonough) took second place honours while Villiam (Joseph Chindano Jr.) snagged third.
Owned by Dr. Michael Miller and trained by Maria Rice, eight-year-old gelding Melanion N (Bettors Delight-Georgias Jury) scored his second win in eight seasonal outings. His earnings moved to $34,061 on the year and to $175,105 in his career.
Live harness racing will continue on Wednesday, April 9 at 2:30 p.m. with an 11-race program scheduled.
(with files from Buffalo)