Twelve groups of freshmen qualified at the Meadows this morning, as the youngsters continue to prepare for their initial season of racing
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Leading the way on the trotting gait was Kid Formula, a full brother to stakes winner Dream Kid. The son of Cincinnati Kid--Kandy Angus trotted in 2:00.3. Pilot Dave Palone sent Kid Formula right to the front. His charge cut the opening half mile in 1:01 before coming home in :59.3. Like his older brother, Dream Kid, Kid Formula is a member of the Ron Burke Stable and will likely head to Indiana for much of the stakes season.
On the pacing side, a pair of colts covered their respective miles in 1:57.4 to lead the speed chart. First up was Papa Ray, a modest $1,800 yearling purchase last year at the New Jersey Classic for trainer/driver Ernest Masci, Jr. The son of Village Jolt--Liamatters opened up a six-length lead at the half in :58.3 before holding on for a one-length win.
Later in the session, it was Babes I Scoot (I Scoot Hanover--Sports Babe), who came from fourth at the half under Palone's guidance to score a half-length win. The final half mile was clocked in :57.1, with Babes I Scoot making up five lengths. Ron Burke trains the colt, a $22,000 yearling purchase at the Hoosier Classic Sale last fall.
(With files from the Meadows Standardbred Owners Association)