Winding Hill ($9) and driver Mike Merton won the $9,000 featured trot at Tioga Downs on Sunday afternoon (June 18).
The six-year-old gelding by Here Comes Herbie found himself fifth and four lengths back after the three-quarters mark. Noble Anthony (Mike Simons) led almost the whole way, but he battled Another Breath (Mickey McNichol) all the way to the stretch. Winding Hill took advantage of the speed duel by charging late in the stretch to beat Another Breath (second) with his last step. Winding Hill, who is owned by Diane Whittemore and trained by Dennis Whittemore, won for the third time this season in 1:55. Another Breath held on for third.
Merton is having a great start to 2017 with 18 wins. Mike Simons earned another driving double to give him 34 wins on the season. David McGinnis had a training double winning with Angel Cindy ($5.70) and Eyes Only For You ($7.00).
The large Father's Day crowd also got to enjoy the ostrich and camel races. A beer mug giveaway also put a smile on the faces of those in attendance.
Racing returns to Tioga Downs on Monday night at 6:50 p.m. with an eight-race card.
(With files from Tioga Downs)