Hesa Kingslayer N captured the $12,000 Open 1 Pace on Sunday afternoon (July 9) at Tioga Downs.
Hesa Kingslayer N took the lead and led to the first quarter in :27.3. He used a :29.1 second quarter to be first to the half in :57.1. Rifleman was first to make a move going first-up from third as they travelled down the backstretch. Hesa Kingslayer N was first to three-quarters in 1:24.4. As they made the turn for home, Hesa Kingslayer N shook off Rifleman. Tiger Baron became the major danger and came charging down the lane but Hesa Kingslayer N dug in and hung on to win in 1:52.1. Tiger Baron had to settle for second and Rifleman finished third.
Hesa Kingslayer N is a 10-year-old gelding by Christian Cullen. He is owned by Joel Warner and trainer Mike Deters. It was his first win this season and the 22nd in his career. Ridge Warren drove the $3.40 winner.
Warren drove three winners on the card. Driver-trainer Jack McNeil swept the amateur events. He got his wins with Ive Got Hootspa and Majestic Sunset.
Driver Mike Merton and trainer Rob Harmon combined to get five wins. Merton and Harmon have always been a force at Tioga but on Sunday, they brought it to another level. They got their five wins with JB Mauney N ($2.60), Northern Cardinal ($9.80), Colonel Bayama ($3.40), Saulsbrook Hero ($6.50) and Higherthananeagle ($10.60).
Live harness racing returns to Tioga Downs on Friday, July 14, starting at 6:15 p.m. (EDT).
(Tioga Downs)