Tioga Downs welcomed two divisions of the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for three-year-old pacing colts and geldings on Sunday (Aug. 20).
Huntinthelastdolar ($11.20) and Wally Hennessey won the fastest $57,000 division in 1:50.2.
Huntinthelastdolar was first to the quarter in :26.4 and then he slowed things down, using a :29 second quarter to be first to the half in :55.4. Peppermint Man (Matt Kakaley) went on the chase going down the backstretch, but Huntinthelastdolar shook him off and led to three-quarters in 1:23.4. As they reached the stretch, Goldin Greatness (Jason Bartlett) popped the pocket and came out after the leader. Huntinthelastdolar found another gear and won easily in 1:50.2. Goldin Greatness was second and Tickertape Hanover finished third.
Huntinthelastdolar is a three-year-old gelding by Huntsville. He is owned by George Kerr, Brad Grant and trainer Gregg McNair. It was his fourth win this season and he now has six career victories.
Thunder Hunter Joe ($3.10) and Tyler Buter charged late to capture the other $57,000 division.
American Fling (Mark MacDonald) took the early lead but Hurrikane Hunter got by and took over the lead before hitting the quarter in :27.1. Metal Man (Kakaley) took control with a lap to go and was first to the half in :54.1. Blue Hunt (Hennessey) went first-up to challenge for the lead as they went down the backstretch. Metal Man was first to three-quarters in 1:22.1. As they made the turn for home, Thunder Hunter Joe came flying down the lane and went right on by to win in 1:51.2. Livonjaxandqueens (Michael Merton) closed to finish second and Metal Man had to settle for third.
Thunder Hunter Joe is a three-year-old gelding by Huntsville. Nicholas Devita trains for owners David Hamm, Glenn Phillips, Christopher Giaccio and Devita Racing stable. He now has five career victories -- all earned this season.
Live harness racing returns to Tioga Downs on Friday (Aug. 25) starting at 6:15 p.m.
(With files from Tioga Downs)