Undefeated Bomb Hugger and driver Anthony MacDonald cruised to an easy win in the $106,200 New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for two-year-old trotting fillies at Tioga Downs on Sunday (August 8).
Bomb Hugger ($7.30) and the big favourite, Gertrude (Andy Miller), both went out for the lead. Gertrude went on a break and Bomb Hugger took control and led to the first quarter in :29. Bomb Hugger used a :31.1 second quarter breather to hit the half first in 1:00.1. Gertrude made a tremendous comeback as she worked her way all the way to second going first-over down the backstretch. Bomb Hugger continued to be in control though as she led to three-quarters in 1:28.3.
As they made the turn for home, Gertrude ran out of gas as Bomb Hugger found another gear and she just breezed down the stretch. Little Pink Eyes (Jim Meittinis) went all out on the chase but Bomb Hugger was too strong and won in a lifetime-best of 1:57.2. Little Pink Eyes was second-best and Gettinmystepsin (Tyler Buter) finished third.
Bomb Hugger is a filly by Chapter Seven-Stylemaker. She is owned by Thestable Bomb Hugger Group of Guelph, Ont., and trained by Jeff Byron. She has now won three legs of the NYSS and is a perfect four-for-four in her career.
Braxten Boyd had a driving double on the day. He got his wins with Anchors Away ($8.40) and Kazans Power ($8.40).
Live racing continues at Tioga on Friday, Aug. 13 starting at 6:15 p.m.
(With files from Tioga Downs)