Orlando Blue A, driven by Mike Merton, captured the featured $17,808 Winners Over Pace to go back-to-back for trainer Domenico Leotta at Tioga Downs on Sunday, June 29.
Fearful Intent (Tyler Miller) led through early fractions of :26 and :54.4 with Orlando Blue A sitting fifth. Orlando Blue A ($11.60) made his move going first-over down the backstretch and pulled alongside Fearful Intent at three-quarters in 1:22.4. As they made the turn for home, Orlando Blue A took over the lead and held off a late bid from eventual place finisher Fulsome (Braxten Boyd) to win in a lifetime best-tying 1:51.2. Mirragon A (Jim Pantaleano) finished third.
Orlando Blue A, an eight-year-old gelding, is two-for-two for Leotta since joining his barn earlier this month. The son of Heston Blue Chip-Harriet Elisabeth has won 25 of 105 career starts and six of 19 races this year. He is owned by Durazzano Stable LLC.
Driver Jim Pantaleano and trainer Mike Deters were the dynamic duo of the day as they combined for three wins with Pantaleano picking up five total. The team won with Mea Culpa A ($13.60), Parmesan N ($6.20), and Always B Elvis ($3.70). Pantaleano got his other wins with Captain Conan ($2.90) and Stonebridge Rex ($2.90).
Live racing returns to Tioga Downs on Friday, July 4 with a post time of 6:15 p.m. Fireworks follow live racing.
(With files from Tioga Downs)