Batavia Downs hosted two thrilling $18,243 Open Handicaps for both gaits on Saturday night, September 14, showcasing exciting performances from the competitors.
In the featured trot, the favourite Biscoe delivered an impressive victory, leading from start to finish with driver Jim McNeight Jr. at the helm. After a five-horse field formed due to scratches, Treasured Tee (Joe Chindano Jr.) launched off the gate and crossed over on the turn while Biscoe, positioned at post one, remained poised. Just past the eighth pole, McNeight pulled Biscoe to the front before reaching the quarter mark. Biscoe cruised through fractions of :28.3, :58.2, and 1:27.4, keeping Treasured Tee at bay. As they exited the final turn and entered the stretch, Biscoe surged ahead, winning by an impressive 5-1/4 lengths in 1:57.2, equalling his fastest time at The Downs this year. Treasured Tee held on for a close second.
This victory marked Biscoe's sixth win of the season in 21 starts, with a payout of $3.90. He is co-owned and trained by McNeight Jr., and is a four-year-old son of International Moni.
In the spotlight pace, Tiger Baron (shown above) and driver Dave McNeight III also took off from the starting position, maintaining a leisurely pace of :58 to the halfway point. This prompted a surge of competitors from behind, led by Better Take It (Kevin Cummings). As the race progressed down the backstretch, Tiger Baron picked up the pace, while Better Take It fell behind. Mirragon A (Shawn McDonough) quickly moved three-wide, challenging Tiger Baron as they hit the three-quarters in 1:26. Mirragon A briefly took the lead in the last turn, but Tiger Baron regained control at the top of the stretch, pulling ahead under an enthusiastic drive by McNeight to win in 1:53.3, equaling his seasonal best. Villiam (Joseph Chindano Jr.), the slight favourite in the pocket, narrowly claimed second over Mirragon A.
Tiger Baron, paying $9.10, secured his seventh win of the year in 28 races for owner Courtney McNeight, while Dave McNeight Jr. trains the nine-year-old gelding by Western Terror. This victory contributed to a successful night for McNeight III, who secured three wins on the card.
Drew Monti emerged as the leading driver on Saturday, achieving a remarkable four wins. His successful mounts included RD Skippy (1:55, $3.90), Lanas Desire (1:54, $2.60), Duck Dynasty (1:54.3, $22.60), and Admiral Hanover (1:54.3, $4.60). Monti also finished with a second and two-thirds from eleven drives.
The Jackpot Super Hi-5 pentafecta was hit in the final race, rewarding the unique winning combination of 2-9-4-6-7 with a payout of $3,832.60 for a 20-cent wager.
Live harness racing continues at Batavia Downs on Wednesday, September 18, with a post time of 6 p.m.