Driver Jim Meittinis captured his 2,000th career victory with Rebellious ($2.90) in the $11,000 Open Pace at Tioga Downs on Sunday (July 22).
Bettorsluckystreak (Jim Taggart Jr.) took the field to the first quarter in :27.4. before Rebellious angled out from third as they went by the stands for the first time. After clearing, Rebellious controlled middle fractions of :56.3 and 1:24.1. Once they reached the top of the stretch, win 2,000 for Meittinis was in the bag, as Rebellious found another gear and left Believe This Bob (Aaron Byron) in his dust in 1:51.2. Bettorsluckystreak settled for third.
Rebellious, a four-year-old gelding by Mach Three, is owned by trainer Mike Deters in partnership with Joel Warner. It was his 10th win this season and the 14th of his career.
Meittinis, who earned his very first win in 1987, now leads all drivers in wins at Tioga Downs this season with 36, one more than Aaron Byron.
Driver Mike Merton and trainer Patti Harmon combined for two wins on the day, teaming up with Mister Special T ($5.10) and R M Backhawk ($5.60).
Andy Santeramo had a driving double as well, winning with You Said It ($16.00) and Team Captain ($7.00).
Live racing returns to Tioga Downs on Friday (July 27) at 6:15 p.m. There will be no racing on Saturday (July 28) because of the Wynonna and The Big Noise concert.
(Tioga Downs)