Not often do Mike Deters trainees go unnoticed at Tioga Downs, but on Saturday night (May 28), Meadowbranch Ricky flew under the radar and upset in the feature.
Driven by Jim Taggart Jr, Meadowbrach Ricky, a seven-year-old son of Muscle Massive, was taken back to last at odds of 7-1, trailing the field to the opening quarter.
Castyourcrown led to the opening quarter in :27.3 and clipped the half in :57.4. The favourite, Spotlessreputation, made a break just before the half. Taggart was patient with Meadowbranch Ricky, allowing him to trail the field while moving third over with three-eighths to trot. Up the backstretch, Castyourcrown separated himself from the field by two lengths, getting to three-quarters in 1:26.3.
In the final turn, Beguin Dugoutier F found his best stride and accelerated from second over, towing Meadowbranch Ricky into contention. Meadowbranch Ricky moved four wide and timed his stretch-rally correctly, hitting the wire first in 1:57. Beguin Dugoutier F finished second. Castyourcrown dug in to hold on for third.
The betting public may have been surprised, but trainer Mike Deters was not. “I made a bunch of changes,” Deters said. “He had been very pacey and he couldn't function. Thankfully, I made the right changes.”
Meadowbranch Ricky paid $16.20 to win. This was his 23rd win from 138 starts.
THROUGH THE SHADES: Tioga Downs' hosts the New York Sire Stakes for three-year-old trotting colts and geldings Sunday (May 29). The 14-race card begins at 1 p.m. (EDT). Every Sunday at Tioga Downs is “Family Day,” featuring bounce houses, $1 food specials, free coloring books, fan participation games for prizes and more.
(Tioga Downs)