Trainer Mike Deters put on a clinic Friday at Tioga Downs thanks to a four-win performance that included a triumph in the $11,500 feature with Prairie Westerngal.
Wally Hennessey and Prairie Westerngal ($3.10) went to the front early but Alta Madeira N (Michael Merton) took control just before hitting the first quarter first in :26.2. So Amazing (Denny Bucceri) came first-over to challenge as they went by the stands for the first time. Alta Madeira N was first to the half :54.1. Abby Rose (Jim Taggart, Jr.) used a burst of speed and went three-wide down the backstretch and led to three-quarters in 1:22.2.
As they made the turn for home Prairie Westerngal made her move and edged on by to win in 1:52. Abby Rose had to settle for second. Georgie Martin (Brandon Parker) finished third.
Prairie Westerngal is a six-year-old mare by Western Ideal. She is owned by Patricia Fritz, Joel Warner, and Deters. It was her sixth win of the season. She now has 28 career victories.
Deters and Hennessey also combined for wins with Eileens Wish ($8.40), and Donegalartchokin N ($6.70). Deters other win came with Anchors Away ($4.20). Deters now leads Patti Harmon for the training title with 43 wins to her 42 wins with three cards left in the season.
Tioga Downs returns to Live racing on Saturday (September 17) starting at 3 p.m.
(Tioga Downs)