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Merga Hanover, Movie Town impressive in NYSS at Batavia

By Billie Owens

Photo: Merga Hanover with driver Matt Kakaley.

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

A total of $107,000 was up for grabs when the New York Sire Stake (NYSS) 2-year-old pacing fillies visited Batavia Downs on Wednesday afternoon (Aug. 14) and the winners of both divisions put in stellar performances. 

The first $53,000 split  was won by Merga Hanover (American Ideal-Magic Starlight) who took no prisoners in a gate to wire victory. 

Merga Hanover was floated off the gate by driver Matt Kakaley for the first eighth of a mile while the rest of the field set up, then he gunned her to the front and controlled the rest of the mile. After getting to the half in :57.2 with the trailing horses in single file, Cash Roll (Scott Zeron) pulled first up with The Fun Marshall (Billy Davis Jr.) right behind her trying to push the issue.

Merga Hanover continued to set the pace to the three-quarters, around the turn and into the stretch with the competition unable to make up any ground. Kakaley gave his filly her head down the lane and Merga Hanover was quickly on cruise control, pacing away to a handy two-length win in 1:55. 

“I eased her out of the gate because I never drove her before,” said Kakaley. “But I let her pace the last turn and she coasted home. It was all her.”

The win vaulted Merga Hanover into the NYSS points lead for her division, now with 175.

It was the fourth win in only five lifetime starts for Merga Hanover ($6.90) and it pushed her earnings to $86,866 for owners Thomas Dillon, Scott Dillon, Joe Sbrocco and William Donovan. Ron Burke trains the winner.

Merga Hanover was bred by Hanover Shoe Farm.

(Above photo: Movie Town with driver Tyler Buter.)

The second division went for $54,000 and provided a sizable upset for the betting public when Movie Town (American Ideal-New Hollywood) came off the pace and lit up the board at 20-1. 

Racine Bell (Jason Bartlett) left and took the lead before giving it up to Major Battle (Jim Morrill Jr.) past the quarter. The race proceeded to the half without any changes when Turnthefrownaround (Matt Kakaley) and Movie Town (Tyler Buter) both rolled up in the outer flow to start chasing down the front runner. 

Major Battle hit the three-quarters in 1:26.4 with positions remaining the same behind him; that was until the top of the last turn when Movie Town tipped three-deep and started to make her move. Buter fed Movie Town the lines and she was fully engaged, passing the inside horses easily and stretching out to a two-length win in 1:57.

Movie Town ($43.60) scored her second NYSS win of the year for owner Bay Pond Racing and trainer Jeff Stafford.

Winbak Farm bred Movie Town. 

Three divisions of the $15,000 Excel “A” series were also contested on Wednesday with the following results. 

(The first Excel "A" event in the third race was a dead-heat between Alleyesonme As and Sus) 

Alleyesonme As  (Heston Blue Chip-Twincreeks Jewel)

Driver -- Jason Bartlett

Owner -- Anette Lorentzon and Acl Stuteri Ab

Trainer -- Anette Lorentzon

Breeder -- Anette Lorentzon and Acl Stuteri Ab

Time -- 1:58.2

Mutuel -- $2.10

Sus (Art Major-Outtathisworld)

Driver -- Jim Morrill Jr.

Owner -- Yankeeland Partners

Trainer -- Brett Bittle

Breeder - White Birch Farm

Time - 1:58.2

Mutuel -- $8.70

Charm And Grace (American Ideal-Another Hanover)

Driver -- Jim Morrill Jr.

Owner -- John Dwyer

Trainer -- John Mongeon

Breeder -- Kentuckiana Farms and Marvin Katz

Time -- 1:57.2

Mutuel -- $4.20

Hen Party  (Roll With Joe-My Lady Day)

Driver -- Matt Kakaley

Owner -- William Donovan

Trainer -- Ron Burke

Breeder -- Frederick Hertrich III

Time -- 1:55.2

Mutuel -- $4.30

Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Friday (Aug. 16), which is the first Friday of racing this meet. Post time for the first race is 6 p.m.

Epic standoff, big win highlight Muckdog's playoff-atmosphere win over West Virginia

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

There are 18 games left in the New York-Penn League season, but there was a playoff atmosphere at Dwyer Stadium Wednesday night.

With the West Virginia Black Bears coming in just 1.5 games behind Batavia, the managers were stealing bases, making pitching changes and even the players were involved in a stand-off that lasted over three hours.

In the end, the Batavia Muckdogs improved to 34-24 with an 11-5 win over West Virginia (31-26).

The Muckdogs trailed, 3-1 in the fourth when Nic Ready blasted a home run deep over the left-field fence to cut the lead to 3-2. Ready has seven home runs on the season and went 3-for-4 with four RBIs and his 25th double of the season.

A 2019 Miami Marlins draft pick in the 23rd-round out of the Air Force Academy, has 34 RBI's on the season.

Batavia shortstop Dalvy Rosario had it best offensive night of the season, going 3-for-4 with two doubles, 2 RBI's and scored two runs as well as turning two double plays with Jack Strunc.

J.D. Orr, who leads the NYPL in hitting with a .381 average stole his 24th base of the season and despite just one hit on the night scored four runs. Strunc had two hits and scored twice.

Troy Johnston, a 17th-round pick of the Marlins out of Gonzaga was 2-for-4 with two runs, two RBIs and a walk. He hit his 10th double of the season.

Milton Smith II is hitting .327 after going 2-for-4.

The crowd noticed a fun standoff between Batavia's Harrison Dinicola and West Virginia's Ryan Haug. The two held their hats over their hearts during the national anthem, then players from both teams picked them up like a statue and put them standing in the same position on the bench. During each inning, the players were decorated by Gatorade cups and never moved from the position for over three and a half hours.

When Haug finally had to leave the dugout after the game to catch the bus, Dinicola was the victor, touching off a wild celebration by the players including water and Gatorade bath.

"That was one of the hardest things I've done in my life. My teammates gave me a lot of adrenaline during the game," Dinicola said. "We had a great team win. The pitchers came in and did their job and our hitters kept hitting, I love it. Go Muckdogs!"

The video of the standoff on the Muckdogs social media sites had over 20,000 combined views after the game and was shared by Minor League Baseball, Yahoo Sports and others.

The Muckdogs went over 30,000 fans on the season, which is over 3,000 more than all of 2018 with 10 home games remaining.

Andrew Miller started and struck out four in 4.1 innings giving up three runs. With runners on in the fifth, M.D. Johnson came in and retired the only two batters he faced to pick up his first win of the season. At 1-0, Johnson has pitched 12.2 innings with 16 strikeouts.

Bryan Hoeing earned his third hold throwing two innings with two strikeouts, no walks, no runs, and just two hits.

Brock Love then closed it with three strikeouts in the last two innings.

Tonight is First Responders Night as all first responders receive two free general admission tickets. it is also Thirsty Thursday with Labatt's and other special $2 beer prices. The two teams also play Friday night at Dwyer Stadium, both games at 7:05 p.m.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

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For over 3.5 hours, West Virginia's Ryan Haug, left, and Batavia's Harrison Dinicola were in the same position from the national anthem. Dinicola won the stand off and the video went viral Wednesday night after the Muckdogs won, 11-5 to stay in first place.

Waterfowl hunt lottery for Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is now online

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) announces changes to the waterfowl hunt lottery application process for the 2019/2020 season. The preseason lottery will be conducted to select hunters for the first two Saturdays of the hunt season.

In order to streamline the lottery process, applications are now done online here. Follow the prompts to apply. Please note there will be a $5 application fee to cover administrative costs.

Applications can be filled out online from Aug. 15 until Sept. 15.

Winners will be notified approximately one week after the close of the application period by email if selected.

A copy of the lottery win receipt must accompany the hunter to the check station the morning of their hunt.

Please see our Waterfowl Hunting Fact Sheet for full details on the 2019/2020 waterfowl hunting season, which can be found here.

All other aspects of the Iroquois NWR waterfowl hunt will be similar as in previous years, including hunter standby, blind drawings, and non-lottery hunt days.

Youth waterfowl hunters and hunters with disabilities will apply using the same methods as in previous years. Click here for full details.

For further information contact Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, 1101 Casey Road, Basom, NY 14013, or call 585-948-5445.

Iroquois NWR is located midway between Buffalo and Rochester and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Great weather, great fun, solid instruction: 2019 Junior Golf Camp at Batavia Country Club

By Billie Owens

Information and photos from Tom Tucker.

The 2019 Junior Golf Camp took place at Batavia Country Club starting last month with instructors Tom Tucker and Roxanne Noeth.

The PeeWee Division Boys and Girls, for ages 7-10, was held July 22-26. The Senior Boys and Girls Division, for ages 11-15, was held July 29 through Aug. 2.

The PeeWee players, in photo above, experienced great weather and a had great week for golf! 

Front row, from left: Jake Gehlert, Brooklyn Jachimowicz, Tori Davis, Maisse Yunker, Jack Hilchey, Owen Glazier, George Sawyer.

Back row, from left: Coach Tom Tucker, Noah Calarco-Smith, Nicholas Calarco-Smith, Isaiah Proefrock, Hudson George, Brayden Jachimowicz, Jacob Rosenbeck, Xavier Vargas, Ben Vargas, Coach Roxanne Noeth.

The Friday Tournament saw newcomer to camp Hudson George, above, dominate the Boys Division with a score of 34.

Above, Girls Divison winner Brooklyn Jachimowicz, whose score was 39, shows off her swing.

Above are PeeWee Tournament medalists Hudson George and Brooklyn Jachimowicz.

Above, PeeWee Contest winners Maisse Yunker, Brooklyn Jachimowicz, Hudson George and Brayden Jachimowicz.

Closest to the pin winner on hole 13 was Brayden Jachimowicz, and on hole 17 the winner was Brooklyn Jachimowicz. The long drive winner on hole 14 was Noah Calarco Smith. 

Other PeeWee contests and winners were: 

  • Putting Contest Medalist / Boys -- Hudson George
  • Putting Contest Medalist /Girls -- Brooklyn Jachimowicz
  • Chipping Contest Medalist / Boys -- Brayden Jachimowicz (Playoff over Noah Calarco-Smith)
  • Chipping Contest Medalist / Girls -- Maisse Yunker
  • Lag Putting Contest / Boys -- Jack Hilchey
  • Lag Putting Contest / Girls -- Maisse Yunker
  • Aimline Accuracy / Boys -- Brayden Jachimowicz, and he won a few bucks for himself and his team for the effort
  • Aimline Accuracy / Girls -- Tori Davis
  • Pitching Target / Boys -- Jacob Rosenbeck
  • Pitching Target - Girls -- Maisse Yunker

The PeeWee kids had fun, we hope to see them all next year. 

Above is the group photo of the 2019 Senior Boys and Girls Division, ages 11-15, of the Junior Golf Camp.

Front row, from left: Quinton Cummings, Jada Fite, Lily Davis, Natalie Hamm, Greyson Fix.

Back row, from left: Coach Tom Tucker, Rhys Tanner, Will Fulton, Sam Dinsmore, Cooper Fix, Coach Roxanne Noeth. Absent from the picture with illness on tournament day was Hudson Luft, who had been coming on strong all week. 

We had great weather all week for these kids, and they all played very good golf.

The Friday Tournament saw newcomer to camp Quinton Cummings edge out camp veteran Sam Dinsmore 37 to 38 to take the Boys Medalist honors. The Girls Division was dominated by Jada Fite with a score of 37. 


Above, Senior Division Tournament medalists Jada Fite and Quinton Cummings.

Closest to the pin winner on hole 13 for the girls was Jada Fite. Closest to the pin winner on hole 17 for the boys was Quinton Cummings. The long drive winner for the girls on hole 14 was Natalie Hamm; no boys' winner -- no one hit the fairway. 

Above Senior Division contest winners, from left: Will Fulton, Jada Fite, Lily Davis, Natalie Hamm and Quinton Cummings.

Senior Division Contest Winners

  • Putting Contest Medalist / Girls -- Lily Davis (37)
  • Putting Contest Medalist / Boys -- Will Fulton (38)
  • Chipping Contest Medalist / Girls -- Natalie Hamm
  • Chipping Contest Medalist / Boys -- Will Fulton
  • Lag Putting Contest / Girls -- Lily Davis 
  • Lag Putting Contest / Boys -- Cooper Fix 
  • Aimline Accuracy / Girls -- Lily Davis
  • Aimline Accuracy / Boys -- Cooper Fix
  • Pitching Target / Girls -- Lily Davis
  • Pitching Target / Boys -- Quinton Cummings, Hudson Luft won the shootout for $5

We hope to see everyone next year!

Muckdogs cling to first place after 5-0 loss to Mahoning Valley

By Howard B. Owens

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Press release:

As the race for the New York-Penn League Pinckney Division gets tighter, the Batavia Muckdogs have four crucial home games this week.

Batavia (33-24) fell to Mahoning Valley, 5-0 on Monday night as second-place West Virginia  (30-25) picked up a win to move two games out of first.

The lead was just 1-0 in the ninth as the pitching staff held Mahoning Valley in check.

Edgar Martinez who suffered the hard-luck loss, gave up one run in six innings, striking out one without a walk. He is 2-3 and his ERA dropped to 2.88

Easton Lucas had a strong seventh and finished with four strikeouts in two innings.

At the plate for Batavia, Dustin Skelton, Andrew Turner, Julian Infante, Nic Ready, Troy Johnston and Milton Smith II (stolen bases, his 17th on the season) all had hits, but the Muckdogs stranded all seven runners.

Tonight is $2 Tuesday as all general admission seats are just $2 and it's UMMC/Genesee Orthopedics Night as the first 1,000 fans will receive 16-ounce sturdy tumblers with dishwasher safe straws and lids, courtesy of UMMC. The game is at 7:05 p.m.

Also, it's Pups in the Park as dogs get in the game free.

On Wednesday, second-place West Virginia comes to town for three games.

COMING UP: The Batavia Muckdogs are holding First Responders Night at Dwyer Stadium on Thursday, Aug. 15 when the team takes on the second-place West Virginia Black Bears. 

In appreciation of area first responders, the Muckdogs will be offering two complementary general admission tickets to the game for all active police, fire, and emergency services personnel. First responders can receive their tickets by showing proper identification at the Dwyer Stadium box office during normal business hours (weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) leading up to the game or on game night up until the seventh inning.

In addition, first responders will have the opportunity to purchase additional tickets beyond the two complimentary at the group rate of $5 per ticket. The Muckdogs currently have a two-game lead over West Virginia for first place in a hotly contested playoff race. First pitch Thursday is set for 7:05 p.m. and it’s also Thirsty Thursday, presented by Labatt. All fans 21 and over can enjoy $2 16-ounce cans of Blue and Blue Light until the seventh inning.

Photos by Steve Ognibene.

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Frosh fillies featured in NYSS at Batavia Wednesday

By Billie Owens

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia Downs will host the 2-year-old pacing fillies on Wednesday afternoon (Aug. 14) when the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) return for their fifth of nine 2019 stops and the two divisions that will compete for a combined $107,000 in purses look to be very competitive races. 

The first leg (carded as race four) goes for $53,000 and has Cash Roll (Roll With Joe-Rockonomics) installed as the 2-1 morning line favorite.

Cash Roll has won three of five starts this year, two of which were in NYSS action, and currently sits second in points and fourth in earnings. She took her lifetime mark of 1:56 last month at Yonkers in a gate to wire, 4-¼ length romp in the mud. She has outstanding gate speed and loves to cut the mile and after drawing post one for this race, must have her driver Scott Zeron feeling really good about their chances. 

Merga Hanover (American Ideal-Magic Starlight) has a similar career path to Cash Roll. She also has three wins to her credit, two in the NYSS, is third in earnings and fourth in points and also likes to be on or near the lead. The only variant to her schedule this week is she picks up Matt Kakaley to drive and he knows the Batavia oval very well. Kakaley and Merga Hanover will leave from post six.

If the front end pace between those two gets hectic, The Fun Marshall (So Surreal-Hallmark Hanover) will be close to pick up the pieces. The Fun Marshall didn’t get her year off to as fast a start of her opponents, but she certainly made a statement on July 11. After sitting a garden spot trip, she closed sharply down the lane to score a lifetime best victory of 1:55.4 at Yonkers over a sloppy track. The Fun Marshall starts from post two with Billy Davis Jr. in tow. 

In the second $54,000 division, Racine Bell (So Surreal-Ty’s Artist) brings a stellar resume to post and has been recognized as the favorite by the track handicapper at 5-2 as a result. 

Racine Bell is the top money earner among her peers and is also tied for the top in points. She has three wins in six starts, hasn’t missed the board all year and comes into this race off a career best tying 1:56.1 win at Yonkers. Her regular driver Jason Bartlett will be in town to drive once again and they will start from post seven for this event.

Turnthefrownaround (Roll WIth Joe-Knockout Pout) is the second choice at 3-1 but appears to be a real wild card. Although she has the fastest win time of this group this year from a 1:53.3 victory over the 5/8th’s mile track at Tioga Downs, she has also made two breaks at Monticello and Yonkers which are both half-milers. She will be on a half Wednesday at Batavia and will have to mind her manners to succeed. Matt Kakaley has been assigned the drive and he start that task from post five. 

Major Battle (Art Major-Savhorsrideacowboy) makes her first NYSS start but recent form shows her potential. Although she has exhibited gate speed in her first lifetime start, her last start shows her strong closing ability after she got away eighth by 15-lengths at Mohawk and paced the final five-eighths of a mile parked-out and closing to finish second in 1:53.3. Jim Morrill Jr. picks up the drive and the pair will start from post four. 

There are also three $15,000 divisions of the Excel “A” series on the card. Post time for the first race is 5 p.m.

Batavia Muckdogs to hold First Responders Night this Thursday

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Batavia Muckdogs are pleased to announce that the Thursday, Aug. 15th, game vs. the West Virginia Black Bears will be First Responders Night at Dwyer Stadium.

In appreciation of area first responders, the Muckdogs will be offering two complementary General Admission tickets to the game for all active police, fire, and emergency services personnel.

First responders can receive their tickets by showing proper identification at the Dwyer Stadium box office during normal business hours (weekdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) leading up to the game or on game night up until the seventh inning.

In addition, first responders will have the opportunity to purchase additional tickets beyond the two complementary at the group rate of $5 per ticket.

The Muckdogs currently have a three-game lead over West Virginia for first place in a hotly contested playoff race.

First pitch Thursday is set for 7:05 p.m. and it’s also Thirsty Thursday, presented by Labatt. All fans 21 and over can enjoy $2 16-ounce cans of Blue and Blue Light until the seventh inning.

2019 Junior Golf Camp Batavia Country Club

By Thomas Tucker

 





Pee Wee Division Boys and Girls Ages 7-10 July 22nd through July 26th, 2019

Front Row, left to right: Jake Gehlert, Brooklyn Jachimowicz, Tori Davis, Maisse Yunker,

Jack Hilchey, Owen Glazier, George Sawyer

Rear Row, left to right: Coach Tom Tucker, Noah Calarco-Smith, Nicholas Calarco-Smith, Isaiah Proefrock, Hudson George, Brayden Jachimowicz, Jacob Rosenbeck, Xavier Vargas, Ben Vargas, Coach Roxanne Noeth



The Pee Wee players experienced great weather and a had great week for golf!



The Friday Tournament saw newcomer to camp Hudson George dominate the boys division with a score of 34. The girls divison was won by Brooklyn Jachimowicz with a score of 39.

 



PeeWee Tournament Medalists Hudson George and Brooklyn Jachimowicz

Really good swings captured by Coach Noath!





Closest to the pin winner on hole 13 was Brayden Jachimowicz, and on hole 17 the winner was Brooklyn Jachimowicz. The long drive winner on hole 14 was Noah Calarco Smith.



Other contests and winners were:



PeeWee Contest Winners: Maisse Yunker, Brooklyn Jachimowicz, Hudson George, Brayden Jachimowicz

 

  • Putting Contest Medalist - Boys - Hudson George
  • Putting Contest Medalist - Girls - Brooklyn Jachimowicz
  • Chipping Contest Medalist - Boys - Brayden Jachimowicz (Playoff over Noah Calarco-Smith)
  • Chipping Contest Medalist - Girls - Maisse Yunker
  • Lag Putting Contest - Boys - Jack Hilchey
  • Lag Putting Contest - Girls - Maisse Yunker
  • Aimline Accuracy - Boys - Brayden Jachimowicz, and he won a few bucks for himself and his team for the effort
  • Aimline Accuracy - Girls - Tori Davis
  • Pitching Target - Boys - Jacob Rosenbeck
  • Pitching Target - Girls - Maisse Yunker

The kids had fun, we hope to see them all next year







 





Senior Boys and Girls Division Ages 11-15 July 29th through August 2nd, 2019

Front Row, left to right: Quinton Cummings, Jada Fite, Lily Davis, Natalie Hamm, Greyson Fix

Rear Row, left to right: Coach Tom Tucker, Rhys Tanner, Will Fulton, Sam Dinsmore, Cooper Fix, Coach Roxanne Noeth



Absent from the picture with illness on tournament day was Hudson Luft, who had been coming on strong all week.

 

We had great weather all week for these kids, and they all played very good golf.



The Friday Tournament saw newcomer to camp Quinton Cummings edge out camp veteran Sam Dinsmore 37 to 38 to take the Boys Medalist honors. The girls divison was dominated by Jada Fite with a score of 37.

 



PeeWee Tournament Medalists Jada Fite and Quinton Cummings

 

Closest to the pin winner on hole 13 for the girls was Jada Fite. Closest to the pin winner on hole 17 for the boys was Quinton Cummings. The long drive winner for the girls on hole 14 was Natalie Hamm, no boys winner - no one hit the fairway.



Other contests winners were:



Senior Division Contest Winners

 

  • Putting Contest Medalist - Girls - Lily Davis (37)
  • Putting Contest Medalist - Boys - Will Fulton (38)
  • Chipping Contest Medalist - Girls - Natalie Hamm
  • Chipping Contest Medalist - Boys - Will Fulton
  • Lag Putting Contest - Girls - Lily Davis
  • Lag Putting Contest - Boys - Cooper Fix
  • Aimline Accuracy - Girls - Lily Davis
  • Aimline Accuracy - Boys - Cooper Fix
  • Pitching Target - Girls - Lily Davis
  • Pitching Target - Boys - Quinton Cummings , Hudson Luft won the shootout for $5

We hope to see everyone next year!

First time ever: NASCAR Truck Series at Middletown's Orange County Fair Speedway

By Billie Owens

Press release:

MIDDLETOWN -- Following his momentous first ever NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series (NGOTS) win at Eldora Speedway, Stewart Friesen will continue on the trail of his scheduled Northeast dirt racing events in the Halmar no. 44 Big Block Modified. One planned stop for the NGOTS number 3 in points driver is Orange County Fair Speedway's Centennial Race Weekend, the unprecedented 100-year-anniversary event that pays $100,000 to win.

Friesen's no. 52 Chevy Silverado has actually been sporting OCFS on the hood to promote the event that may shape up to be dirt track racing's biggest ever. 

When Friesen rolls into Middletown NY for the big $100K show, he'll be hauling in more than just his no. 44 modified, as Orange Motorsports & Entertainment (OME) has just revealed that Friesen and Eldora runner up, NGOTS driver Sheldon Creed, will run at Middletown's Legendary "House of Power" in a special 10-Lap exhibition.

Their trucks and haulers will be on display starting Friday, Aug. 16th, to all Centennial Race Weekend attendees, then on Saturday the 17th (before the big $100K race) Sheldon Creed will get his rematch with Stewart Friesen, 10-laps to make it happen. This will be the first time ever that NASCAR Truck Series trucks have been at Middletown.

Sheldon Creed is 21 years old and comes from El Cajon, Calif. He's an X-Games Gold-Medalist and two-time Stadium Super Trucks Series champion.  Creed is known for his diversity to drive anything with four wheels, competing in the Stadium Super Trucks (SST) Series where he has accumulated six wins in only 12 starts.

In 2017 Creed competed in the Trans-Am Series, ARCA, K&N, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the NASCAR Xfinity Series, totaling 28 different races with eight different teams. Sheldon won the 2018 ARCA Racing Series Championship and competes full time in 2019 with GMS Racing in the NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series. 

Friesen’s opportunities in the NASCAR Truck Series have come largely from his ability to develop a complete driver’s skillset while racing 800-horsepower Big-Block Modifieds in the Northeast, where for the last few years he has been absolutely dominant. Can Creed’s adaptability outpace Friesen’s dirt modified experience when the two face off competitively in the 160-Lap, $100,000 to win big finale at the Centennial Race Weekend that follows their NGOTS exhibition? That’s right, Sheldon Creed will strap into a Dirt Modified for a real shot at redemption against Friesen (and MANY more talented drivers), on the DIRT!

In addition to this unprecedented, NASCAR approved exhibition, Orange Motorsports & Entertainment (OME) has jam packed the three-day Centennial Race Weekend with fun activities, attractions, live music and historical tributes.

With a newly resurfaced track, upgraded facilities and more new seating recently added, OCFS is poised to become the Northeast's premiere racetrack.  While the Centennial Race Weekend will be a tribute to the Speedway's rich history, it will also set the precedent for what is to come in this grassroots raceway's future.

Joey Pro extends win streak at Batavia

By Billie Owens

Photo: Joey Pro with driver Jim Morrill Jr.

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Trainer John Hallett left the friendly confines of Tioga Downs with Joey Pro this week in lieu of a visit to Batavia Downs on Sunday afternoon (Aug. 11) but despite the change in venue, they came away with the same result. Joey Pro scored another win, but this time in the top-class $12,500 Open Handicap trotting feature at the oldest lighted harness track in North America. 

Joey Pro (Jim Morrill Jr.) made it quick and simple; he left, took the lead and outlasted the competition. Morrill set quarters of :29, :58.1 and 1:27 with the field pretty much single-file behind him. Going into the last turn, Wheels A Turning (Dave McNeight III) was moving up the outside first-over, two-lengths behind the leader. But he was also trotting up a storm. When the race straightened out down the lane, Wheels A Turning had drawn almost even with Joey Pro and appeared poised to motor right on by, but Joey Pro swelled up and held him off at the wire to win by a nose in 1:56.2 for his third straight victory.

Well on his way to beating his career year of 2018, Joey Pro ($10.80) has now registered eight wins in 2019 and pocketed $41,780 in purses for owner Mark Wamp. 

The $11,000 Open II Handicap trot also went to an outsider after Saratoga Raceway regular Rose Run Speedster (Jim Morrill Jr.) pulled past the half, took control of the race before the three-quarter pole and rebuffed a late bid by Fox Valley Veto (Billy Davis Jr.) to win handily by 1-¼ lengths in 1:57.4. 

Rose Run Speedster ($4.40) is owned by Simzer and Derue and trained by Brett Derue. 

Jim Morrill Jr., Shawn Gray and Billy Davis Jr. all had driving triple on the card; Davis scoring the natural hat trick in the final three races of the day. Trainers Brett Derue, JD Perrin and Steve Kiblin all had two wins apiece.

Live racing resumes Batavia Downs on Wednesday (Aug. 14) and the New York Sire Stake 2-year-old pacing fillies will be in town to compete for $107,000 in purses. Post time for the first race is 5 p.m.

Muckdogs shutdown Mahoning Valley 5-0

By Howard B. Owens

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Press release:

Just a day ago, the Batavia Muckdogs were in danger of losing the lead in the New York-Penn League Pinckney Division.

However, back home at Dwyer Stadium, the Batavia pitching staff and clutch hitting led the Muckdogs to a 5-0 shutout of Mahoning Valley on Sunday.

With the win and a West Virginia loss, Batavia (33-23) now has a 3.0 lead in the division.

Julio Frias improved to 4-2 wth the win, throwing five shutout innings with two strikeouts and one walk.

Jonaiker Villalobos struck out two in a scoreless sixth for his second hold and Geremy Galindez earned his second hold but left the game with discomfort after a pitch.

Joey Steele, the 30th-round draft pick this year of the Miami Marlins who has a perfect 0.00 ERA, was called to the mound in the seventh with one out. With a few minutes to throw and stretch, he went out and threw 2.2 innings of one-hit, shutout ball with four strikeouts and no walks for his first save.

Steele has now thrown 13.2 innings with 22 strikeouts, no runs allowed, 11 hits, one walk and a 0.88 WHIP to go along with his 0.00 ERA.

"That was huge of Joe, he really picked up the bullpen, went 2.2 innings … that was big-time of him," said Batavia catcher and Miami native Michael Hernandez. "We really needed that."

Hernandez not only handled the four pitchers for a shutout but had a basest and scored a run.

"I'm just taking it one pitch at a time and trying to hit the ball hard," said Hernandez. "We are in first place, there is no better feeling than winning. It's always a great day when you get a shut out, that means it's a combination of defense and pitching … it was a great day for us Muckdogs."

At the plate, J.D. Orr was close to an inside-the-park homer when his sharply hit single to right skipped off the glove of an outfielder to the fence. He raced around the bases, scoring three runs on the play.

Orr finished 2-for-4 with two runs, his 13th RBI and increased his NYPL leading average to .384.

Nic Ready had two hits and scored a run while Sean Reynolds ripped an RBI single and Jack Strunc had a single and scored.

Not only did West Virginia (29-25) lose, but State College (Pa.) (27-28) in third place lost and Mahoning Valley (25-30) is in fourth.

The Muckdogs have five games left in this homestand, taking on Mahoning Valley Monday and Tuesday with games at 7:05 p.m. all week.

There will be specials on food and drinks Monday and on Tuesday, all general admission tickets are just $2.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

Submitted photo: Batavia Manager Tom Lawless called on Joey Steele after an injury and the pitcher threw 2.2 scoreless innings for the save. Steele has not give-up a run in 13.1 innings this season and just one walk with 22 strikeouts. Catcher Michael Hernandez called the shutout, handling all four pitchers in the win.

Muckdogs return to Batavia for six-game home stand with two game first-place lead

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

The Batavia Muckdogs start an important six-game home stand late this afternoon at Dwyer Stadium with a two-game lead over West Virginia in the New York-Penn League Pinckney Division.

The Muckdogs take on Mahoning Valley today at 5:05 p.m. as well as Monday and Tuesday at 7:05 p.m.

The second-place West Virginia Black Bears (Pittsburgh Pirates) are at Dwyer Stadium Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, all games at 7:05 p.m.

On Saturday night, Batavia needed extra innings to fight off Pennsylvania's third-place State College, 3-2.

State College had a 2-1 lead in the ninth, but Batavia Manager Tom Lawless went to work with a series of moves to tie the game.

After Harrison Dinicola singled, Ronal Reynoso pinch ran and Julian Infante singled him to second. Lawless then called on Brayan Hernandez to lay down a bunt which sent Reynoso to third. Jack Strunc then hit a ball to the right side scoring Hernandez to tie the game.

In the 10th, the minor league rules start a runner on second. Lawless put the speedy Kobie Taylor on the bases and he scored on a fielders choice by Troy Johnston.

In the bottom of the 10th, Lawless turned to closer Evan Brabrand, who got one out on a bunt, moving the tying run to third. He struck out a batter and got a groundout to Dalvy Rosario for the win.

Brabrand, a ninth-round draft pick of the Miami Marlins this year out of Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va., is 3-1 on the season with 11 saves in 15 appearances with a 1.84 ERA.

Eli Villalobos, a 14th-round pick out of Southern California's Long Beach State in 2018, had a strong start, going five innings with six strikeouts, did not allow a run and walked just one scattering three hits. Brock Love struck out three in two innings and Josh Simpson struck out two in 1.2 innings without a walk or run, lowering his ERA to 0,63.

At the plate, J.D. Orr, the NYPL's leading hitter went 2-for-5 with his 23rd stolen base as Johnston, Nic Ready (Double) , Dinicola, Infante, Strunc and Mikey Hernandez (RBI double) all had hits.

Sean Reynolds walked and stole his second base of the season.

Kids run the bases today after the game and MuckPup Kids Club members get in free. There will be autograph sessions and a chance for photos and selfies with your favorite players starting at 4:20 p.m. near the concession stand.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

Visiting Saulsbrook Deputy takes Batavia Open

By Billie Owens

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Saratoga Raceway regular Saulsbrook Deputy shipped into Western New York on Saturday night (Aug. 10) for the first time and immediately laid down the law after winning the $12,500 Open I Handicap pace at Batavia Downs 

Driver John Cummings Jr. took his time placing Saulsbrook Deputy on the lead but cleared by the quarter and opened up a two-length advantage at the point. The pair then proceeded to the half in a pedestrian :58.2 split before Lucan Hanover (Billy Davis Jr.) rolled up on the outside with Iammrbrightside N (Ray Fisher Jr.) on his back to apply some pressure for the second circuit. 

The top three horses maintained their positions to the three-quarters in 1:26.2 and then around the last turn where Saulsbrook Deputy was still two-lengths clear. But Iammrbrightside N tipped three-deep around the stalled Lucan Hanover and was barreling down the middle of the track and closing with every stride. Cummings was urging his horse all the way down the lane and Saulsbrook Deputy responded and stayed game to win in 1:55.1. 

Saulsbrook Deputy ($5.70) scored his fifth win of the year for owner Kevin Quinn and brought his 2019 earnings to $49,491. Paul Zabielski trains the winner. 

In the undercard $11,000 Open II pace, Drunkonaplane (Billy Davis Jr.) scored his second straight win at Batavia Downs after a very strong performance. 

Drunkonaplane had the lead four-steps off the gate and relinquished that spot only momentarily before the quarter when he let Manceiver (Jim Morrill Jr.) clear. But he immediately retook the front and closed out the deal. Davis cut quarters of :56.3 and 1:24.4 before turning for home and holding off 51-1 shot Tullow N (Ray Fisher Jr.). 

Drunkonaplane ($4), who now has six wins this year, is owned by Vogel and Wags Nags Stable Jack Rice and Adelphi Bloodstock. Maria Rice is the trainer. 

Several horsemen and one horsewoman had very productive nights at Batavia on Saturday. Billy Davis Jr. and Jim Morrill Jr. both had four winners on the card while trainers Jackie Greene, Paul Zabielski and Maria Rice all sent two winners to the winner’s enclosure. 

Live racing resumes Batavia Downs on today (Aug. 11) Post time for the first race is 1:15 p.m.

NASCAR star Michael Waltrip to appear at speedway in Middletown Aug. 17

By Billie Owens

Press release:

MIDDLETOWN -- Michael Waltrip, two-time Daytona 500 champion and MONSTER ENERGY NASCAR CUP SERIES driver will appear at the Orange County Fair Speedway (OCFS) on Saturday, Aug. 17th, the final day of the 100-year-old speedway’s special “Centennial Race Weekend.”

The former driver and team owner serves as an analyst for FOX NASCAR’s coverage of the MONSTER ENERGY NASCAR CUP SERIES, NASCAR XFINITY SERIES and the NASCAR GANDER OUTDOORS TRUCK SERIES (NGOTS), the series in which occasional OCFS competitors Stewart Friesen and Tyler Dippel race.

Waltrip won’t be the only NASCAR presence felt at the Centennial Race Weekend, as Stewart Friesen and Sheldon Creed are set to face off in a special exhibition in their NGOTS trucks at OCFS, in a first-ever experience. With an all-new clay racing surface, drivers and fans alike are excited to see what kind of speeds a NASCAR truck does at “The House of Power” with one of the sport’s greatest legends there to see it all go down.

In 2007, Waltrip ushered Toyota into the MONSTER ENERGY NASCAR CUP SERIES as team owner for Michael Waltrip Racing and driver of the No. 55 Toyota, leading the manufacturer’s efforts in its first year of Cup competition. Waltrip opened the doors of his one-of-a-kind race shop and fan experience in a former movie theater in Cornelius, N.C., and welcomed Rob Kauffman as co-owner in the fall of 2007.

In 2012, MWR earned its first two berths in the Chase for the NASCAR Cup with Clint Bowyer, who finished second, and Martin Truex Jr. In 2010, Waltrip segued to a part-time driving schedule and scored two top-five finishes in only four starts in 2013. MWR campaigned fulltime in the Cup Series through the conclusion of the 2015 season.

The Owensboro, Ky., native spent 33 years as a driver in the MONSTER ENERGY NASCAR CUP SERIES. He won the 2001 and 2003 DAYTONA 500, making him one of 10 multi-time winners. Waltrip owns four Cup wins and four pole positions, alongside 11 career NASCAR XFINITY SERIES wins and one NASCAR GANDER OUTDOORS TRUCK SERIES victory – at the 2011 Daytona race in a last-lap pass.

He made his Cup Series driving debut in the 1985 COCA-COLA 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where he also won the 1996 NASCAR ALL-STAR RACE, as well as the 1991 and 1992 Winston Open and 1995 Winston Select.

NASCAR stars compete in Orange County Fair Speedway's Centennial races Aug. 15-17

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

MIDDLETOWN -- Racing’s top talents are expected to be in Middletown, Orange County, at next week’s “Centennial Race Weekend” on Aug.15, 16 and 17. Among the hundreds of competitors from the northeast will be a number of current and former NASCAR stars, all looking to make history, but also looking for that $100,000 to win check, the biggest ever purse in Modified Dirt Racing.

Hot off of a big win at Eldora Speedway, dirt racing star Stewart Friesen will be hauling out to Middletown after running with the NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series in Michigan this Saturday night. Friesen hopes to roll up with 2 big consecutive NASCAR wins under his belt. As expected, joining Friesen at Orange County Fair Speedway is his fellow truck series driver and northeast dirt mod driver, Tyler Dippel, of Ulster County.

Both Friesen and Dippel race extensive schedules in both Northeast dirt racing, and NASCAR trucks, so it wasn’t much of a surprise that the two would be in attendance for this 100th Anniversary event, the big shocker however was that Friesen would also be appearing with his NASCAR Truck in a special 10-lap exhibition with Sheldon Creed at the “House of Power”!

In addition to the 10-lap exhibition, Creed will also strap into a dirt modified and throw down with best of them for that $100,000 paycheck. Can this NASCAR standout (who just finished second to Friesen at Eldora) win big against the legions of local teams who have called OCFS home for decades?

Many OCFS hometown favorites have returned to Middletown after success in NASCAR and ARCA series racing. The 2017 OCFS track champ, Jimmy Horton, had a prolific ARCA career with wins at Daytona. Now in his 60s, Horton remains a fierce competitor at OCFS with his Halmar Race Team no. 43 modified and is expected to be a top runner at the Centennial Race Weekend.

Even OCFS all-time winner and current championship points leader, Brett Hearn, branched out and competed on the national stage with NASCAR at one point in his career.

Prolific dirt modified drivers like Tighe Scott and Gary Balough have earned legend status at Orange County Fair Speedway, as well as on the NASCAR circuit. Balough, who recently appeared on Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s TV show and Podcast, will be at the Centennial Race Weekend event with his no.112 “Batmobile” -- one of dirt racing’s most dominant and innovative cars ever built.

In addition to his car(s) being on display, Balough will also hold a lecture on car building and will premiere the trailer for a documentary about his life and career as a driver and his downfall as a smuggler on Thursday, Aug. 15th, the first day of the three-day Centennial Race Weekend event. 

Since its inception in 1919, OCFS has been home to many drivers who have achieved national acclaim, many of the speedway’s first competitors were Indy 500 drivers and winners.

Even into the 1960s with Mario Andretti and Bobby Allison racing in Middletown, OCFS has always been a place where the best of the best battled it out on the dirt.

Many of these DIRT & NASCAR racing heroes and more will participate in two massive autograph sessions at OCFS over the anniversary weekend, with free posters for fans while supplies last.

The Centennial Race Weekend is a once-in-a-lifetime event, your chance to see NASCAR stars RACE at your local dirt track, and meet them for an autograph in our “Champions Plaza” a space that will pay tribute to OCFS’s rich, 100-year history.

For a full list of Centennial Race Weekend events, visit: orangecountyfairpseedway.net and check out the schedule or news sections.

Business is booming at Batavia’s Championship meet

By Billie Owens

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

The numbers are in and they’re impressive to say the least. After completing two weeks of the 2019 live harness racing meet, Batavia Downs has reported unprecedented increases in handle from every source of wagering.

Western Regional Off Track Betting (WROTB) operates Batavia Downs and released the following numbers after the first nine cards of racing.

Export betting was up 36 percent, on-track betting was up 20 percent and WROTB betting from all outlets was up 10 percent. Total betting is up 30 percent or a total of $291,351 with an average increase of $32,372 per night.

“On Monday (Aug. 5) the track handle was up 90 percent while the total handle was up 127 percent from the same Monday last year. It was the fifth largest of all time since WROTB reopened the track in 2002,” said Todd Haight, director/general manager of Batavia Downs.

“We were hoping to see increases as a result of our stakes programs this year, but we are ecstatic to be seeing it on our overnight product as well.”

The centerpiece of the 2019 meet is the $1.8 million New York Sire Stakes Night of Champions that will be held at the Downs on Saturday (Sept. 14) along with the track's signature stake, the $50,000 Kane Memorial Invitational pace.

Racing resumes at Batavia Downs this week on Saturday (Aug. 10) with post time at 6 p.m.

Race for first place in NYPL getting tighter for Batavia

By Billie Owens

Press release:

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- The race for the Pinckney Division lead in the New York-Penn League is getting hot as August as the Batavia Muckdogs lost and West Virginia picked up at least one win on Thursday.

Batavia (31-22) has a 2.5 game lead over West Virginia, who won the first game of a doubleheader against Williamsport on Thursday.

Batavia's lone run in a 4-1 loss to State College Thursday came in the ninth when Julian Infante had a RBI double. He finished with two hits and is hitting .300 on the season.

J.D. Orr continued his tear, going 2-for-4 with a run to increase his lead-leading average to .387.

Milton Smith II, Harrison Dinicola and Andres Stormes all had hits for Batavia.

Andrew Miller threw the first five innings with two strikeouts, one earned run and two walks. Dakota Bennett went three innings with four strikeouts and one earned run.

Batavia is at State College Friday and Saturday and return to Dwyer Stadium for a 5:05 p.m. game on Sunday with Mahoning Valley.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

Batavia 24U team loses heartbreaking 3-2 decision in extra innings in playoffs amid controversy

By Billie Owens

Story by Dan McComb:

Despite outhitting their opponent, North Town, 9-3, the Batavia 24U Baseball Team came out on the losing end of a 3-2 extra-inning thriller on Aug. 1.

Down 2-0 in the bottom of the sixth inning, Batavia rallied to tie the game at 2 when Burnie Jonis singled and went to second on a wild pitch.

Tristan Aldinger then doubled him home, and Jerry Reinhardt singled him home.

The game was tied at 2 in the bottom of the eighth inning when a critical play went against Batavia.

In the bottom of the eighth inning, Jonis singled with one out. Jerry Reinhardt then with two outs lined a double down the left field line all the way to the fence, and Jonis was called out at home on a controversial play. The catcher later admitted he never tagged Jonis.

In the top of the ninth inning, North Town would score the winning run when their lead-off hitter walked with one out.

Trevor Sherwood then attempted to pick off the lead-off hitter and appeared to have a successful pick-off, but in the run-down an errant throw went into left field, placing the runner on third base.

With the infield drawn and 1 out, a ground ball was hit to the infield, and despite a perfect throw and tag at home plate, the runner was called safe, and North Town delivered a 3-2 upset win over the previously undefeated Batavia squad.

Sherwood pitched a great game, allowing only three hits and striking out nine in eight-and-a-third innings.

Zeke Lynn came on in relief and struck out the two batters that he faced.

Reinhardt collected three hits and AJ Marcello and Jonis collected two hits each. Also collecting hits were Lynn and Aldinger.

Despite the heartbreaking loss the season was a success.

This squad has been together for seven years and has added key players every year.

The coach referred to this team as the best team he has ever coached, and said the players are all class acts. Although the season ended on a controversial and sour note, nonetheless it was fun and drew a lot of fans to the park.

Annual Van Hurlburt Golf Tournament is Aug. 15, benefits Crossroads House and Masonic Charities

By Billie Owens

The 19th Annual Van Hulburt Memorial Golf Tournament to benefit the comfort care home Crossroads House and Masonic Charities will take place Thursday, Aug. 15, at the Batavia Country Club.

It is hosted by Hesperus Masonic Lodge #837, Bergen.

Cost is $70 per person and includes: 18 holes of golf with cart; lunch; dinner; prizes -- men & women  / closest to the pin / longest drive / tournament winners.

Guests are welcome for a $22 fee.

The tournament is a four-person scramble. Sign in is at 11 a.m., lunch is 11:30, shotgun start is at noon.

All teams must be paid by Aug. 9th to guarantee placement in this tournament.

There will also be basket raffles, a 50/50, and Chinese auction.

For more information, contact Marty Krause at (585) 730-2809.

The tournament is sponsored by Triple-0-Mechanical Inc. Other sponsors include: Alexander Country Deli; Bergen C-Store & Dunkin Donuts; Ashley Capital; Ralph & Rosie's Deli & Pizzeria; Bonduelle USA; Jerry Hulburt & Family.

The tournament's namesake, Van Hulburt, worked for 35 years at Byron-Bergen Central School as a teacher, counselor and he coached golf for 25 years. He was a Past Master of Hesperus Lodge and a beloved member of the Masonic community.

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