Percys Z Tam took full advantage of the pylon post as he won the featured $8,500 Open I Pace at Batavia Downs on Saturday evening (Sept. 26).
Long Train Runnin bolted from the wings and took the point by the quarter in :27.2. With Percys Z Tam and Mr Euroman following closely in line, Long Train Runnin paced uncontested to the half in :56.4 and did not feel the heat until midway up the backstretch. That’s where driver Jim Morrill Jr. pulled Percys Z Tam and took the lead at the three quarters, rounded the last turn and opened a two-length advantage into the stretch. He then paced sharply to the wire, holding off a late rush from Mr Euroman to win by a half length in 1:53.3, which was a seasonal best.
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It was the sixth win of the year for Percys Z Tam who is owned by Mike Torcello and trained by Gerry Sarama. He paid $5.30 to win.
In the $7,500 Open II Pace, Harry Hoo N followed Under Paid all the way to the top of the stretch where he tipped, took the lead and held it to the wire by a half length in 1:54.2, which was his best effort this year.
Harry Hoo N scored his second win in the last three starts and the fourth win of the year for owner Harry Wortzman. McDonough also trains the $11.60 winner.
Drew Monti was the leading reinsman on Saturday winning three races on the card. Billy Davis Jr., Dave Mcneight III, Jim Morrill Jr. and Shawn McDonough all visited the Purple Haze winner’s circle twice. McDonough also registered two wins on the training side as well.
Racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday afternoon at 5 p.m. (EDT).
(Batavia Downs)