Merton and Harmon steal the show

Driver “Magic” Mike Merton and trainer Rob Harmon combine for a grand slam on Sunday afternoon (7-26) at Tioga.

The dynamic duo finished first with American Pastime, Carronsidelegacy GB, Soho Skyfall A, Coalford Hitman GB.  Merton had five wins altogether on the card.  He got his other win with Bettor Sun.

Matai Phil N (Lauren Tritton) is gate-to-wire winner in the $14,500 featured Open Pace.

Matai Phil N went straight to the front and led to the first quarter in :26.3.  He slowed things down with a :30.2 second quarter to be first to the half in :56.3.  Marvelous Mac A (Mike Merton) was first to make a move going first-over heading down the backstretch.  Matai Phil N shook him off and led to three quarters in 1:24.3.

As they reached the stretch, second place finisher Livonjaxandqueens (Tom Merton) became the major danger, but Matai Phil N ($3.98) was too strong and won in 1:51.3.  Red Blooded (Jim Pantaleano) finished third.

MATAI PHIL N REPLAY

Matai Phil N is a 6-year-old gelding by Washington VC.  He is owned by Durazzano Stable and trained by Augie Abbatiello Jr.  It was his fourth win this season and his 11th career victory.

Tioga Downs returns to live racing on Thursday (July 30) starting at 6:15 p.m.

For more information go to www.tiogadowns.com.

For complete race results, click here: US Trotting results.

by John Horne, for Tioga Downs