Skip to main content

Batavia Downs

Clydesdales visit Batavia Downs for photo ops with patrons

By Julia Ferrini
clydesdales at Batavia Downs

Visitors to Batavia Downs on Saturday got a chance to visit with some magnificent horses, and we don't mean the usual race horses that run around the harness track at the Downs, but the Budweiser Clydesdales.

Visitors had the option of getting their pictures taken with these large and finely groomed animals.

Among them was Red, an 11-year-old Clydesdale who travels 330 days a year, according to handler Andrew Lacrosse. 

Not only are the horses used as intended -- they are considered workhorses -- they are also the brewery’s trademark.

While the company owns 130 horses in all, three traveling teams of 10 horses make their way throughout the United States to the delight of horse enthusiasts across the country.

The Clydesdales are recognized for the feathers around the horse's ankles and that trademark look is breed-specific. Although some Clydesdales can be taller, Red is approximately 18.3 hands in height (about 6’3'' tall) and weighs about 2,200 pounds. Measuring from toe to heel, the animal wears a size nine shoe, says Lacrosse. By way of comparison, the average horse wears a size three. 

There was no cost to meet and be photographed with Red, however, the event was held in an effort to earn donations to support “Folds of Honor” and garner interest in horse racing. The organization provides scholarships to military members and their families, said Angelina Miconi, social media marketing manager for Batavia Downs.

Photos by Julia Ferrini.

clydesdales at Batavia Downs
clydesdales at Batavia Downs
clydesdales at Batavia Downs
clydesdales at Batavia Downs

 

NYSS, Kane Pace highlight $467,400 bounty at Batavia Downs Saturday

By Tim Bojarski
royal-filly-photo-by-jessica-hallett.jpg
Photo of Royal Filly courtesy of Jessica Hallett.

The richest night of harness racing all summer will be held at Batavia Downs on Saturday (August 26) when total purses of $467,400 will be in play for participants of the heavily stake-laden card. Post time for the first of 15 races is at 6 p.m.

The New York Sire Stakes will be back in Genesee County, this time featuring both colt and gelding and filly divisions of 3-year-old trotters. Those three races alone are worth $234,900 and coupled with three $20,000 divisions of NYSS Excelsior events, total $294,900 in purses for the state-bred trotters.

Also on the card is Batavia Downs’ signature event, the $75,000 Robert J. Kane Memorial Invitational Pace which has attracted some of the best Open pacers currently racing in North America.

The feature races start with one division of NYSS 3-year-old male trotters going to post for a jackpot of $119,800 and includes two top trotters from their division going postward.

Kierkegaard K (Chapter Seven-Gone Baby Gone) has four wins this year including two NYSS events and an elimination of the MGM Yonkers Trot. But he also won the Empire Breeders Classic at Vernon Downs in 1:50.3. That mark has him tied as the fastest 3-year-old trotter of either gender to this point of 2023 with Hambletonian winner Tactical Approach and Hambletonian Oaks winner Heaven Hanover. As if that line on his resume isn’t enough, with his earnings of $209,351, Kierkegaard K is also the 11th highest earner in North America among all 3-year-old trotters. After making a break in his Hambletonian elimination at the end of July, Kierkegaard K came back with a NYSS win and a third-place finish in the Beal Memorial at Mohegan Sun Pocono last week, bringing him into this race off two solid efforts and looking like the one to beat.

Kierkegaard K starts from post three with Mark Macdonald in the bike for trainer Ake Svanstedt.

Chapercraz (Crazy Wow-Chaperess) has also had a big year with three wins, including two NYSS outings. But the gelding was only a little over two lengths away from having three more wins and all in very big races. Chapercraz finished second by a head in the MGM Yonkers Trot elimination, second by three-quarters of a length in that final and second by 1-1/4 lengths in the Zweig Trot at Vernon. But all those seconds still paid well and as a result,  Chapercraz is currently the seventh richest 3-year-old trotter in North America. After not missing the board in eight consecutive starts, Chapercraz got stung last week at Saratoga, parked four-deep into turn one before getting the lead past the :27.1 quarter. But he never saw the pylons until the three-eighths and that took its toll at the end of the mile and gave him his first out since May.

Chapercraz looks to rebound from post four with Joe Bongiorno in the bike for trainer Ron Burke.

Next are two NYSS divisions for 3-year-old trotting fillies. The first group goes for $57,000 and none of the five fillies have won a NYSS event this year.

Five Fish Species (Chapter Seven-Stylemaker) comes into this race on a tear, winning three out of her last four starts including two Excelsior races. She is making her first NYSS start here for trainer Megan Scran who has Mark Macdonald in the bike from post three.

Usosweet Blue Chip (Devious Man-Twin B Kisses) finished second in the NYSS at Yonkers last week, has one Excelsior win earlier this year and is the highest 2023 earner of this group. Marcus Miller will drive from post two for his father, trainer Erv Miller.

On The House (Chapter Seven-On Your Tab) has drawn terribly in her last three NYSS events but still was able to grab two checks. Prior to that she was a willing winner from post one in an overnight at Mohegan Sun Pocono. Here she drew post four for trainer Ake Svanstedt who has Jim Morrill Jr. In the sulky.

The second division is a six horse affair going for $58,100 and Royal Filly (Chapter Seven-Swinging Royalty) looks to get the most attention from the bettors.

Royal Filly is a four-time winner this year, including a victory in the Empire Breeders Classic and three NYSS races, two of which came in her last three starts. Her $190,697 in earnings has her the fifth richest and her mark of 1:52 has her the eighth fastest 3-year-old trotting filly in North America to this point. Royal Filly has drawn post one and trainer Tony Alagna has Tyler Buter back in the bike for this outing.

Woolco (Chapter Seven-Upside Hanover) is also a four-time winner and they were at both NYSS and Excelsior levels. And aside from one unfortunate break, Woolco has been first or second six out of her seven starts this year. Leaving from post six, trainer Bob Krivelin has Jim Morrill Jr. at the lines for the second time this year. The first outing with Morrill was a win.

Canterbury Hanover (Chapter Seven-Charmed Life) is another consistent performer with a win, second and third in her last three starts and all in NYSS action. She is the second-highest earner among this group and is poised to make a strong statement. It will be a homecoming of sorts for trainer/driver Jeff Gregory who started his career at Batavia Downs. Canterbury Hanover drew post four.

Finally, the $75,000 Robert J. Kane Memorial Invitational Pace has drawn what appears to be, the toughest overall field in the 17-year history of the race.

Covered Bridge ships in fresh off a win in the 64th Gold Cup and Saucer Pace at Red Shores in Charlottetown, PEI last week. After winning his elimination in 1:51.2 by four lengths, Covered Bridge came back in the final from post nine and won the final in 1:50.3 after being parked out four-deep at three-quarters. Covered Bridge also took a seasonal mark of 1:49.4 at Yonkers in June. His 13 wins this year have earned him $390,985 and he is likely to become a millionaire by the end of business on Saturday night as he is only $5,325 shy of that mark now.

Jordan Stratton will be at the lines again for owner/trainer Mark Ford and will start from post five.

Rocknroll Runa A (Rock N Roll Heaven-She’s A Runa) has excelled on half-mile tracks since landing in North America and you needn’t look any further back than his last three starts for proof as he has been dominant in the Open at Yonkers. He also finished second in consecutive weeks at Plainridge Park while chasing two track records in those races. His extreme tactical speed and middle-of-the-pack draw makes him very dangerous in here.  

Jason Bartlett will drive Rocknroll Runa A from post six for trainer Larry Stalbaum.

The field of eight also features millionaires This Is The Plan ($3,082,603) and None Bettor A ($1,145,227), 12-time 2023 winner Idealsomemagic A and last week’s Batavia Downs Open winner and recent import, Mirragon A.

The Robert J. Kane Memorial Invitational Pace is named in honor of the former chairman of the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation (WROTB) and his vision for a defunct racetrack. In 1998 Robert Kane saw the opportunity for WROTB to keep harness racing alive in Western New York and convinced the group to purchase the shuttered Batavia Downs. He then worked diligently for four years to obtain a racing license from the state of New York in order to re-open the track in 2002.

With the improvement of the live racing product, multiple expansions of the gaming floor, and the addition of the top-rated hotel in the years since the acquisition, what once was an empty building is now the pre-eminent attraction in all of Genesee County and that is due to the vision of Robert J. Kane.

Families are encouraged to bring the kids early on Saturday to have their picture taken with one of the Budweiser Clydesdales, who will be on hand from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. for a track-side meet and greet. Also, there will be a Kane Memorial T-Shirt giveaway that night. You must be a Players Club member and swipe your card (starting at 4:30 p.m.) to receive a slip redeemable after the seventh race. 

covered-bridge-photo-by-gail-macdonald.jpg
Photo of Covered Bridge courtesy of Gail Macdonald.
kierkegaard-k-photo-by-photowon.jpg
Photo of Kierkegaard K courtesy of Photowon.
rocknroll-runa-a-photo-by-jessica-hallett.jpg
Photo of Rocknroll Runa A courtesy of Jessica Hallett.

Batavia Downs announces dates for Oktoberfest, Family fun day, and more

By Press Release
weiner dog race batavia downs 2018
Photo from teh 2018 Wiener Dog Race at Batavia Downs.
Photo by Howard Owens

Press Release:

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel has announced the on-sale dates for several upcoming events taking place this fall at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel.

On Friday, September 22, the Ricky Palermo Foundation Comedy Night will be held inside Park Place. Attendees will receive admission to a night of comedy, a free drink, a buffet dinner, and $25 in Free Play. Tickets can be purchased at rickypalermofoundation.org.

Monday, September 25 will be Batavia Downs’ Oktoberfest featuring music from Fritz’s Polka Band. This free event will run from Noon - 3 p.m. The Homestretch Grill doors will be open and several Polish food specials will be available.

On Saturday, September 30, the 3rd annual Vodka & Gin Fest, presented by Deep Eddy Vodka and Ford’s Gin will take place from 4 to 6:30 p.m. For $40, attendees will have access to vodka and gin sampling as well as grazing stations and receive $25 in free play as well as a free program and $5 wager on that evening’s races at Batavia Downs. Designated Driver tickets will also be available. $35 early bird tickets are now on sale at BataviaConcerts.com for a limited time.

WBBZ’s popular show, Polka Buzz, will tape their show inside the Park Place Room on Thursday, October 5 – tickets and details will be available at a later date.

Batavia Downs’ famous Family Fun Day & Wiener Dog Races will take place on Sunday, October 15. Family-related activities will also take place including on-site entertainers, kettle corn stand, pumpkin decorating for kids 15 and under, carriage rides, and pony rides will take place from 12 - 2 p.m. with the wiener dog races commencing at 2 p.m. The time was moved up to accommodate guests who want to make sure they don’t miss the Buffalo Football game at 8:20 p.m. that evening.

The Batavia Bacchus Wine Festival will be happening on Sunday, November 5 from 1 - 3:30 p.m.  For $35, attendees will have access to wine sampling from local and national wineries as well as grazing stations. All attendees will receive $25 in free play. Designated Driver tickets will also be available. Tickets for this event will be on sale later in the fall. This event will take place well ahead of that night’s Buffalo Football game at 8:20 p.m. giving attendees time to watch the game after the event.

“Our event schedule remains jam-packed for the fall,” said Henry Wojtaszek, President and CEO of Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel. “We pride ourselves on providing a diverse variety of events for the people of Western New York.  Our guests will find that these events are fun, well run, and affordable.”

Tickets for other previously announced September events like the Bruno Mars and Taylor Swift Tribute show, the Elvis Tribute Show, and the Silent Disco are on sale now at BataviaConcerts.com.

 

Jimmy Sturr performing at Batavia Downs for Polka Buzz earlier this year. Photo by Howard Owens
Jimmy Sturr performing at Batavia Downs for Polka Buzz earlier this year.
Photo by Howard Owens

And they're off: Batavia Downs looks to add 'historical horse racing' component to gaming experience

By Mike Pettinella

Batavia Downs Gaming is looking to add an “historical horse racing” component to its gaming options.

“It’s our No. 2 (priority) behind getting involved in I-Gaming,” said Henry Wojtaszek, president and chief executive officer of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. at the public benefit company’s board of directors meeting this morning.

Historical horse racing, or HHR, has been around for several years and, in most instances, refers to gaming that permits players to wager on replays of past horse races – while placing their bets on slot-like historical racing terminals, or HRTs.

Wojtaszek said HHR has been “put in place to help Off-Track Betting locations,” and statistics show that it has become a multi-billion industry in itself.

According to the Betting USA website, six states – Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Hampshire, Virginia and Wyoming – offer historical horse racing wagering as of January 2023.

“We’re making a push to pass legislation (to allow HHR in New York State) in 2024,” Wojtaszek said.

HHR machines come in a wide variety of styles, but all are based on the results of randomized past races. 

Also, from the Betting USA website:

“… each round of play begins with the machine selecting one race at random from a database of up to a hundred thousand past races. The terminal obscures names and dates but provides a handicapping form so players can select three horses, just as they would at a live race.

However, many terminals offer a way for players to automate the selection process, so they end up with a machine that looks and feels just like a slot. Only the last few seconds of the race are displayed on a small part of the screen. The rest of the monitor displays reels and symbols to show the player what, if anything, they won off the slot pull.

The Batavian previously has reported about WROTB’s desire to get in on the iGaming craze, which covers any kind of online betting that wagers on the outcome of a game or event. Sports betting, poker, eSports and online casinos are under the iGaming umbrella.

“Data shows that brick-and-mortar (facilities) are not hurt by (iGaming). So, we’re in the mix,” said Wojtaszek, pointing to a possible rollout in 2025.

He did acknowledge that Batavia Downs Gaming likely won't be authorized to offer sports betting, which has grown exponentially via apps such as DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM and Caesars.

Wojtaszek said those four sportsbooks hold about 90 percent of the market share, and “we’ll probably see a shrinkage” in the number of other sportsbooks as time goes on.

In other developments:

-- Chief Financial Officer Jacquelyne Leach reported that Batavia Downs Gaming set another record in July, amassing $7.8 million in net win – the highest figure in corporation history. Net win is the amount of money left in the Video Lottery Terminal machines after paying out the customers.

Credits played for the month fell just short of $100 million, an increase of $6.9 million compared to July 22 and $13.5 million compared to July 21.

On the pari-mutuel (horse racing) side, the handle was $4.7 million in July, down 7 percent from last July but up 5 percent from the corporation’s operating plan.

The July surcharge to be returned to the 17 municipalities came in at $56,675, and operational earnings of $1.04 million for July have Leach predicting that third-quarter earnings distributions to municipalities will come in at around $2 million.

-- Marketing Director Ryan Hasenauer reported that the public is invited to see and take a photo with a Clydesdale from 2-4 p.m. this Saturday during Robert J. Kane Memorial Invitational Pace weekend at Batavia Downs.

The heavy draft-horse breed – that averages 68 to 72 inches tall, 2,000 pounds in weight and was made famous by the Budweiser brewing company – will be stationed in the winner’s circle of the racetrack.

The Kane Memorial will feature a full field of eight horses that have excelled this year on the harness horse racing circuit.

Racing secretary Don Hoover said that the wagering handle, when considering simulcasting and on-site betting thus far, for 23 race days, is averaging $243,237 – up 77 percent over the average handle in 2022. The live handle (patrons at Batavia Downs) is down about 9 percent from last year, however.

-- Paul Bartow of Watkins Glen has joined the board of directors, representing Schuyler County. His appointment by his county’s legislature completes the 17-member board roster.

Bartow is vice president of the Schuyler County Cooperative Extension and a member of the county planning commission and historical society boards.

Racine Bell wins distaff, Cummings wins five at Batavia

By Tim Bojarski
racine-bell-1.jpg
Photo of Racine Bell courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery

The last time she was at Batavia Downs in 2021, Racine Bell set the track record of 1:51.3 for aged pacing mares after destroying her competition by eight full-lengths. On Wednesday night (August 23), the million-dollar mare returned to the Downs and won again in the $15,000 fillies and mares Open Handicap pace. 

Anne Bonney N (Cory Kreiser) took an early lead while Racine Bell (Kevin Cummings) rolled three-wide at the eighth pole on her way to the front at the :27.1 quarter. After crossing over, Cummings settled Racine Bell down and backed off the middle half to a tepid :58.4 as Oaxacan Dream N (Matty Athearn) and Waitforever N (Jim Morrill Jr.) were one out and one back in the breeze. Waitforever N made a three-wide move in turn three and found herself only a length behind the leader as they made their way around the final bend. But that was as close as she'd get as Racine Bell maintained that margin all the way to the line under Cummings urging to win in 1:55.1. 

It was the 33rd lifetime win in only 89 lifetime starts for Racine Bell ($3.40) and owners Chris Lawton and Dale Lawton. David Dewhurst was the winning trainer. 

Besides Racine Bell, Kevin Cummings also won with Tullow N (1:57.1, $2.60), Confidence Man (1:57.1, $9.40), Louie The Lilac (1:55.1, $4.30),

 and Pepin Coolie (2:01.2, $4.90) to round out his five bagger on Wednesday. 

Earlier in the $13,000 fillies and mares Open II Handicap, Diamondtequilashot (Jim Morrill Jr.) sat the pocket behind American Jazz (Denny Bucerri) through quarters of :28, :57.1 and 1:26 while Bet I’m Lucky (Jim McNeight Jr.) and Mcdelicacy (Kevin Cummings) pushed the issue on the outside from the half to the top of the stretch. It was there that  Diamondtequilashot found the passing lane and paced by them all to win by three-quarters of a length in 1:56. 

Diamondtequilashot ($2.60) got her 49th lifetime win and third of the year for owner Rick Senger and trainer Bill Rhoades.

Jim Morrill Jr. also won with TImeless Virgin (1:58.1, $2.50), Kandy Sweet (1:58.4, $2.20), and Mildrix (1:56.2, $3.00) to complete his grand slam. 

When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Friday (Aug. 25) at 6 p.m. there will be a $6,582 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta in the 13th race. 

On Saturday (Aug. 26), Batavia Downs will host the richest card of racing in 2023 when a total of $450,600 in purses will be up for grabs. The program features both colt and filly divisions of New York Sire Stake and Excelsior 3-year-old trotters with total purses of $305,100 and the $75,000 Kane Memorial Invitational Pace, which is Batavia Downs signature race. 

Free full past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

diamondtequilashot-1.jpg
Photo of Diamondtequilashot courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery

Mirragon A passes tough test in Batavia Open

By Tim Bojarski

 

mirragon-a-1.jpg
Mirragon A courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Batavia Downs was the fourth different track that the recently landed Australian import Mirragon A has competed over since starting his North American career in June, but it didn’t dissuade this Aussie from winning the $15,000 Open I Handicap pace on Saturday night (August 19).

Despite being assigned the outside in the field of six, Jim Morrill Jr. wasted no time pushing Mirragon A off the gate and to the lead, a position he controlled at the :27.2 quarter. With the field in single file, Mirragon A took the group to the half in :56.3 and three-quarters in 1:24.2 without any challenges to that point. But trouble was coming and his name was The Longest Yard (Kevin Cummings), who had pulled from fifth at the five-eighths and was making up ground very quickly heading into the final turn. As they entered the stretch, Mirragon A was in control by 1-¼ lengths and The Longest Yard was still over three lengths behind, but he persevered and kept closing the gap as the wire drew near. Not giving into the pressure, Mirragon A maintained his lead while holding off The Longest Yard and a late-charging Stranger Things (Shawn McDonough) to win by one-quarter length in 1:53. 

It was the fourth win in only seven North American starts for Mirragon A ($13.00) who is owned by his trainer Mike Deters, in partnership with Joel Warner and John Manning. 

Morrill ended the night with a driving grand slam after also winning with Rock N Blue (1:55.3, $2.30), Reggiano (1:56.3, $4.20), and Just A Wrangler (1:57, $3.20). 

The $13,000 Open II pace provided the biggest upset of the day when the overlooked Sporty Deal took full advantage of a class drop to score his sixth win of the year and reward his backers with a premium payout. 

Sporty Deal (Keith Kash Jr.) was almost 10 lengths off at the quarter while Passe-Grille Beach (Ray Fisher Jr.) skated unabated through quarters of :27.1, :55.3, and 1:24.4. It was at that last station where Kash tipped Sporty Deal three-wide from sixth, circled the field and took the lead just as they hit the turn. Kash high-lined Sporty Deal and tried to put some real estate between themselves and the competition and it worked. Sporty Deal hit the stretch and paced away to a convincing 1:54.1 victory, which was a new seasonal mark. 

L’Emmur Stable owns Sporty Deal ($43.20) who is trained by his driver, Kash. 

Kash had a training/driving double as he also won with Starsnstripes GB (1:55.4, $7.10).  

When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday (August 23) at 6 p.m. there will be a $5,601 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta in the 13th race. 

Free full past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

sporty-deal-1.jpg
Sporty Deal courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Johnny Boy kicks late for Batavia feature upset

By Tim Bojarski
johnny-boy-1.jpg
Photo of Johnny Boy courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Taking advantage of a perfect trip, Johnny Boy brushed late to capture the $15,000 Open I Handicap trotting feature at Batavia Downs on Friday night (August 18). 

Kevin Cummings settled Johnny Boy in behind the headstrong Con Air Hall (Jim Morrill Jr.) who got to the quarter in :28.2. Con Air Hall then slowed the half to :58.2, forcing Mr. Contestant (Keith Kash Jr.) to advance first-over from fourth at that station. As the race trotted past three-quarters, Mr. Contestant’s bid fell apart and it appeared to be down to the top two trotters. Coming off the turn, Con Air Hall was in the middle of the track while Johnny Boy slipped into the passing lane in full stride. But from far back, Lougazi (Ray Fisher Jr.) was trotting up a storm and joined the leaders for the stretch run. Johnny Boy took the lead just before the line before Lougazi could reach and won by one-half length in 1:57.4.   

It was the sixth win of the year for Johnny Boy ($17.00) for owner Mike Torcello. Sam Smith was the winning trainer. 

Johnny Boy was one of four wins for Cummings on Friday night.

Earlier, the $12,500 Open II trot went to J-s Hopscotch who led the entire race and then hung in the final strides.

J-S Hopscotch (Kyle Cummings) left from post one and controlled the clock from there. With Mugshots Bro (Jim Morrill Jr.) sitting on his back, J-S Hopscotch set fractions of :29.2, 1:00.3 and 1:29.3 with only a mild bid from I Got The Looks (Dan Yetman) during the third quarter. By the time the race got halfway through the last turn, J-S Hopscotch and Mugshots Bro had separated from the field. J-S Hopscotch was still in front but Mugshots Bro was closing fast and drew alongside him in deep stretch. With both drivers fully engaged in their urging, J-S Hopscotch and Mugshots Bro hit the wire simultaneously, leaving it to the camera to reveal that J-S Hopscotch closed the deal by a nose in 1:58.4. 

J-S Hopscotch ($3.30) got his seventh win of the year for owner Rags To Riches of Pa and trainer Tammy Cummings. It was also the second win of the night for Kyle Cummings. 

When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Saturday (August 19) at 6 p.m. there will be a $4,816 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta in the 13th race. 

Free full past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

j-s-hopscotch-1.jpg
Photo of J-S Hopscotch courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Batavia Downs presents Mothers of Veterans Suicide with Sock Hop proceeds

By Press Release
img_4271.jpg
Submitted photo of Henry Wojtaszek (left) presents staff members from Mothers of Veteran Suicide a check from Sock Hop proceeds.

Press Release:

Western Region Off-Track Betting (WROTB) and Batavia Downs President and CEO Henry Wojtaszek was joined by staff from Mothers of Veteran Suicide as they were presented with a check for $3,330. These proceeds were from the “Sock Hop” event that took place at Batavia Downs on August 7.

“We know how important the work that Mothers of Veteran Suicide does in the Veterans community,” Wojtaszek said. “They have had their RV at our concert series and have traveled around the country raising awareness.  We are honored to have helped host this event to raise much-needed funds for their mission.”

“We are so grateful to the staff from Batavia Downs, “said Michele Ladd, President/CEO of Mothers of Veteran Suicide. “With their promotion and assistance, we were able to put on an event that attracted more people than we thought we would have.

Over 150 people attended the Monday afternoon Sock Hop which included Music by Ruby Shooz, an appearance from Batavia Downs Ambassador and NFL Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas, and several raffles which raised an additional $1,994 in funds.

Plans are already underway to schedule next year’s event.

Chamber of Commerce accepting nominations for annual awards

By Press Release
Norm Argulsky 2022 Geneseean of the Year
Norm Argulsky accepting the Chamber of Commerce Geneseean of the Year during the chamber's annual awards ceremony at Batavia Downs in March.
Photo by Howard Owens.received

Press Release:

The Chamber’s Annual Awards Committee has announced the “2023” Annual Award Ceremony will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Batavia Downs Gaming, Park Road, Batavia. This is the County’s premier event that honors businesses and individuals for their achievements in business, community service, and volunteerism.

Please note that a brief write-up will qualify your nominee for consideration. Nominations are now being accepted for Business of the Year, Entrepreneurial Business of the Year, Agricultural Business of the Year, Innovative Enterprise of the Year, Special Service Recognition & Geneseeans of the Year. Business Nominees must be a Chamber Member (If unsure of your nominee, call the Chamber to verify).

Nomination forms are available at the Chamber of Commerce office, 8276 Park Road, Batavia, and can also be downloaded from the Chamber Website at www.geneseeny.com. Nominations MUST BE RECEIVED BY December 29, to be eligible for consideration.

If you would like more information, feel free to call or email Kelly J. Bermingham, Director of Member Relations & Special Events at the Chamber office, 343-7440, ext. 1026, kbermingham@geneseeny.com.

Rec Time posts record time in Batavia NYSS action

By Tim Bojarski
rec-time-track-record.jpg
Photo of Rec Time courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

The 3-year-old filly pacing division of the $114,000 New York Sire Stakes put on quite a performance at Batavia Downs on Wednesday night (August 16) and the star of the show was Rec Time (Huntsville-Ms. Malicious) who stalked a torrid early pace before setting a new track record in victory. 

In the first $57,000 division, Rec Time (Jason Bartlett) got away third as Vivians Dream (Jim Morrill Jr.) seated Southwind Bella (Jack Pelling) at the :26 flat quarter before rolling to the half in a blistering :53.3. The field was in single file and somewhat gapped as they motored up the backside where Southwind Bella pulled the pocket once again approaching three-quarters. That allowed Rec Time room to advance along the pylons, putting the top three in tight quarters rounding the last turn. Vivian’s Dream held sway to the head of the stretch, but that’s where Rec Time found the passing lane and bolted to the lead and a 2-½ length win in 1:52.3.

The time was a new track record for 3-year-old pacing fillies and supplanted the 12-year-old standard of 1:52.4 set by New Album in NYSS action back in 2011. 

It was the fifth win of the year for Rec Time ($20.20) who is owned by D Racing Stable and Jason Osullivan. Deborah Daguet trains Rec Time who was bred by Fair Winds Farm, Mark Mullen, and Steve Jones. 

Then in the second $57,000 split, Earthwindfire (American Ideal-Road Bet) remained undefeated in 2023 after winning her seventh consecutive race in a hard-fought battle. 

Jack Pelling wanted the front with Earthwindfire, but Marcus Miller made him earn it as Turn On The Charm parked the pair in :27.1 before releasing them to cross over. Earthwindfire finally skimmed the cones in the turn and carried the girls to the half in a geared-down :56.1 half. With no imminent threats looming, Pelling continued to grab leather and put up another pedestrian :30.1 panel before Rock My Socks (Jason Bartlett) moved first from fourth and drew alongside the leader before the turn. Positions remained unchanged until the top of the stretch where Earthwindfire was flanked by Turn On The Charm to her left and Rock My Socks to her right. However, Earthwindfire kept looking forward and closed out the mile with a 1:54.1 score by a neck. 

With the win, Earthwindfire ($3.20) boosted her 2023 earnings to $215,416 for owners Melvin Segal, Kentuckiana Racing Stable, and Tulip Racing. Brett Pelling is the winning trainer of Earthwindfire who was bred by Stephen Dey III. 

There were also two $20,000 Excelsior races on the card. The first was won by Sweet Cheyanne (Huntsville-Ever After) in 1:55.1 for driver Marcus Miller, trainer Erv Miller and owner Douglas Overheiser. And the second went to Light And Tight (American Ideal-Don’t Point At) in 1:55.1 for driver Kevin Cummings, trainer Nifty Norman and owners Pinske Stable and Hoese. 

Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Friday (August 18) with post time at 6 p.m. 

Free full past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

earthwindfire.jpg
Photo of Earthwindfire courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Undefeated Earthwindfire in $114,000 NYSS at Batavia on Wednesday

By Tim Bojarski
earthwindfire-photo-by-jessica-hallett.jpg
Photo of Earthwindfire courtesy of Jessica Hallett.

When the New York Sire Stakes roll into Batavia Downs on Wednesday (August 16), the undefeated Earthwindfire will be on hand to try and keep her perfect record intact as she lines up in one of two, five-horse, $57,000 divisions of 3-year-old pacing fillies slated to go that night. 

Earthwindfire (American Ideal-Road Bet) has rattled off six straight wins to start her year, including four NYSS events. The other two came in Grand Circuit action at Yonkers Raceway where she won an elimination and the final of the Park MGM filly pace. Those wins have made Earthwindfire the fourth richest filly in North America this year ($186,916) behind only Sylvia Hanover, Ucandoit Blue Chip and Twin B Joe Fresh, and she is less than $3,000 from vaulting into second place on that list. A five-time victor and runner up in the NYSS final as a 2-year-old last season, Earthwindfire has been winning at will in 2023 and is positioned to continue on that path here and add to her already gaudy lifetime earnings of $508,400. 

Jack Pelling will drive from post four for trainer Brett Pelling. 

Standing in her way from another score on Wednesday will be Turn On The Charm, who is also having a breakout year of her own. 

Turn On The Charm (Huntsville-Charming Hill) is the current points leader (217) among the NYSS sophomore distaff pacers this year and has won four out of her five NYSS starts. She too competed in the Park MGM filly pace and finished a very respectable third in the final. In her last start at Yonkers, Turn On The Charm overcame a very slow start where she got away last, spotting the field 20 lengths at the half. But she rallied to finish fifth and was beaten only 3-¾ lengths. With a post one draw in this race, Turn On The Charm should get a perfect trip behind the assumed frontrunner Earthwindfire, and be in the perfect spot to strike late. 

Trainer Bruce Clarke has Marcus Miller in the bike once again. 

Team Pelling also has the filly to beat in the other division and her name is Southwind Bella. 

Southwind Bella (Huntsville-Southwind Solara) was lightly raced at two, but won three of four starts in NYSS Excel A action in 2022. This year she stepped up to the top level and has won two NYSS races while not finished off the board in the rest. Although her lifetime mark is 1:50.2 at Harrah’s Philadelphia, her last outing at Yonkers was an impressive gate to wire, 3-½ length victory in 1:53.1, which was her best clocking ever over a half mile track. She comes into this race as one of only two fillies in this field to win a NYSS race this year. 

Team Pelling sends out Southwind Bella from post one. 

The other 2023 NYSS winner in the race is Vivians Dream (American Ideal-Sports Chic) who was a state series star at two who won six legs. So far this year she has won only one of those races and it was her very first start of the year. Since then, Vivians Dream has been racing well and is currently fourth for earnings and points among this group, but she has not been able to find the winner’s circle again since May. She finished second to Southwind Bella Last week at Yonkers and looks to be the main rival again this week.

Jim Morrill Jr. picks up the lines for this start for trainer Kevin Lare.

There are also two $20,000 NYSS Excelsior divisions on the program and those splits will be contested in races six and seven. The NYSS main events are carded as races eight and 10. 

Free full card past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page

Batavia Downs features go to Lougazi and Villiam

By Tim Bojarski
villiam1.jpg
Photo of Villiam courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

A stout Saturday night (August 12) card at Batavia Downs was highlighted by a pair of $15,000 Open Handicap races that were divided by gait, and the winner of each needed a season’s best effort to get the job done.

In the top trot, Lougazi started slow but finished fast to take the winner’s share of the purse. 

Lougazi (Ray Fisher Jr.) got away sixth while Johnny Boy (Kevin Cummings) wrestled with Dewanslittlelorie (Joe Chindano Jr.) for a good portion of the mile. While Mr. Contestant (Keith Kash Jr.) watched the mayhem from the pocket, Lougazi and Dewanslittlelorie matched strides through quarters of :27.4, :57 and 1:26.1 with no one cutting any slack. At that three-quarter mark, Lougazi was out and rolling fourth, while also going three-deep around the fading Dewanslittlelorie. As they made their way around the last turn Johnny Boy continued to trot in command, but his lead was diminishing as they reached the top of the stretch. Johnny Boy had Mr. Contestant closed along the pylons, but Lougazi was also trotting up a storm in the middle of the track and blew past them both to win by one-half length in 1:56.4. 

It was the 55th lifetime win for Lougazi ($6.10) who is owned by Mary Warriner and trained by Ryan Swift. 

Fisher led all drivers on Saturday with three wins while Swift was the top trainer after claiming two victories of her own.

Then in the premier pace, Villiam got his second straight win after a hard-fought battle. 

Villiam (Joe Chindano Jr.) tucked away fourth as Sporty Deal (Keith Kash Jr.) parked out Soul Assassin (Jim Morrill Jr.) right off the bat. In a heated duel, Sporty Deal and Assassin went at it in :28, :56.3 and 1:25.1 before Villiam went three-deep around them, and The Longest Yard (Kevin Cummings) went four-wide around Villiam. While pacing through the fourth bend, Villiam, and The Longest Yard overtook the top two positions and broke away from the pack before Villiam gave The Longest Yard the slip at the top of the stretch. Then under a highly animated drive by Chindao, Villiam paced away to a 1-½ length victory in 1:53.3.

Villiam ($17.40) got his sixth win of the year for owner Anthony Evgenikos. Chindano also trains the winner.   

Chindano had two driving wins during the proceedings on Saturday along with Jim McNeight Jr. and Jim Morrill Jr. 

When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday (August 16) at 6 p.m. there will be a $3,385 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta in the 15th race. Also on Wednesday, two divisions of the New York Sire Stake 3-year-old filly pacers will be on hand to compete for a total purse of $114,000.  

Free full past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

lougazi-1.jpg
Photo of Lougazi courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Donna P. Warner, who was a member of the founding family of Batavia Downs, passed away August 5 at the age of 86

By Tim Bojarski

Ms. Warner lived a full and diverse life. Born on March 3, 1937 to her parents Pat E. Provenzano and Barbara Hetzler Provenzano, she joined her sister Barbara in completing their special family that spent most of their lives at the family homestead at 714 Seneca Parkway in Rochester.

Her father Pat was one of the original founders of Batavia Downs in 1940, which continues to operate as the oldest lighted harness track in North America. Ms. Warner became involved in the track in the early 1980’s and became much more involved with her sister, Barbara Samberg, after the Provenzano family took over complete ownership from 1984 through 1997. One of the many highlights during that time was being awarded a Breeders Crown race in 1988.

Ms. Warner enjoyed raising her children, nieces, and nephews and watching them become involved in harness racing in all different aspects of the day-to-day operations. Her son Eric Warner is still involved and currently serves as the Senior Director of Racing at Monticello Raceway.

Ms. Warner had many interests and hobbies. She loved her friends and family unconditionally and there were no strangers to her. She was always willing to step up by volunteering for many different agencies and was a member of many different committees. Her faith was always front and center and she always led by example, never afraid to share her opinions or input.

Prior to her involvement in racing but after her children were older, Ms. Warner enrolled at the Isabella Graham Hart School of Nursing. This was her way of comforting people at their worst times. There she made lifelong friends with co-workers and patients that she had met through her years at Rochester General Hospital. Later in her career, she worked in private practice with Dr. Brenda Ianucci and Dr. Holly Garber.

Ms. Warner was a dear friend to the Sisters of St. Joseph her entire life and was on a first-name basis to many of their congregation there as she was on the medical staff at their Motherhouse. She was also a dear friend to Nazareth Academy where her mom, daughters, and granddaughters all graduated from and served as president of their alumni association for many years.

Aside from all that she accomplished during her life, Ms. Warner’s proudest achievement was that of motherhood. She taught her kids to be unselfish, caring, and loving. She led by example by volunteering at homeless shelters and by opening her home and heart to any and all. Her kids, grandkids, great grandkids, nieces, and nephews always came first. She was a great friend to many and will be missed dearly.

Ms. Warner was predeceased by her parents, Pat and Barbara Provenzano, sister and brother-in-law Barbara and Jim Samberg, and son Gary and daughter-in-law Mary Beth Warner. She is survived by children Melissa Warner of California, Amy (Carl) Munding, Julie Miller, David (Gayle Steele), and Eric (Julie Poli); 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Calling hours will be held 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Thursday, August 17 at Farrell-Ryan Funeral & Cremation Services located at 777 Long Pond Road, Rochester, New York. A memorial mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 18th at St. Theodore's Church, 168 Spencerport Road, Rochester, New York.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Sisters of St. Joseph and sent to the office of Admission Advancement in care of Dawn Gruba in memory of Donna Warner, 150 French Road Rochester, NY 14618.

Kevin Cummings scores a six pack at Batavia Downs

By Tim Bojarski
imprincessgemma-a.jpg
Photo of Imprincessgemma A courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Batavia Downs winningest driver of 2022 is on a mission to repeat this year and Kevin Cummings substantially added to his numbers on Wednesday night (August 9) by winning six races on the card including a natural hat trick right out of the box in races one, two and three. 

The biggest win of the six came in the featured $15,000 fillies and mares Open Handicap pace where after coming up short in her first two tries at the Downs this season, Imprincessgemma A finally closed the deal.

Similar to her initial pair of outings, Imprincessgemma A was sent to the front by Cummings and then led for the duration. After getting to the half in a pedestrian:58.2, Imprincessgemma A was met by a challenge from Bet I’m Lucky (Jim McNeight Jr.) who came first-over from fourth and was only a length behind the leader in the breeze at three-quarters. But that was as close as Bet I’m Lucky would get because Imprincessgemma A was on a mission and pulled away to an easy 1-¾ length victory 1:55.2. 

Imprincessgemma A ($4.80) got her seventh win of the year for owner Elite Harness Racing and trainer Shawn McDonough. 

Cummings also won with Sevenare (1:58.1, $3.30), R U Talkin (1:56.3, $4.40), St Lads Maggie Mae (1:56.1, $3.70), Alexander Hanover (2:01.2, $13.40) and Xenia’s Chip (1:55.1, $2.70). 

The co-feature on Wednesday’s card was an $11,500 conditioned pace for distaff competitors that saw American Jazz trip out to victory. 

American Jazz (Denny Bucceri) got away in the garden spot as Carbon Cider (Joe Chindano Jr.) and Center Attraction (Jim McNeight Jr.) would battle side-by-side the entire mile. The pair bickered through fractions of :27, :56.2 and 1:25.3 at three-quarters where Mcdelicacy (Kevin Cummings joined the fun three-deep. American Jazz continued to follow the wall of three around the last turn and into the stretch where the passing lane opened up like the Red Sea, allowing American Jazz a clear and direct path to victory. Bucceri simply steered the mare along the cones to a 1:55.3, three-quarter length victory. 

American Jazz ($11.00) is owned by Julie Wagonblott and is trained by Joe Alba. 

When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Saturday (August 12) at 6 p.m. there will be a $2,430 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta in the 13th race. 

Free full card past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

american-jazz.jpg
Photo of American Jazz courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Metal Man was golden in $119,800 NYSS at Batavia

By Tim Bojarski
metal-man-8-8-23.jpg
Photo of Metal Man courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery

An early move by driver Jim Morrill Jr. put Metal Man in the perfect spot to win the lone $119,800 division of the New York Sire Stakes for 3-year-old pacing colts and geldings at Batavia Downs on Tuesday night (August 8). 

Hurrikane Hunter (Joe Chindano Jr.) grabbed the front off the gate and sped to the quarter in :27.3. But the lead was about to change as Metal Man charged hard from fourth in the turn and got to the top as they passed the grandstand at the half. Metal Man was well in gear and opened up a 1-¾ length lead heading to three-quarters as Duval Street (Jason Bartlett) moved into second outside of Hurrikane Hunter and It’s A Me Mario (Lauren Tritton) became a player three-deep around them both. Metal Man extended his lead to three lengths at the top of the stretch, but It’s A Me Mario was cutting into the deficit. As they headed down the lane, It’s A Me Mario could only get close to Metal Man, who cruised to the wire well in control and won in 1:53.

It was the first NYSS win, albeit the fifth overall this year for Metal Man ($4.60) who is owned by Fiddlers Creek Stable and trained by Travis Alexander.  

Morrill ended the night with two wins on the card. 

There were also three $20,000 NYSS Excelsior races on the card. The first was won by Storm The Court (Huntsville-Soft Wind Hanover) in 1:54.1 for driver Jason Bartlett, trainer Mark Silva and owner Dune Road Stables. The second went to Heisonthehunt (Huntsville-Hot Lemonade) in 1:56.1 for driver Jordan Stratton, trainer Claude Huckabone III and owner James Crawford IV. And the third was won by Bullville Stephano (Artiscape-Bullvillestephanie) in 1:54.4 for driver Jason Bartlett, trainer Steve Crevani and owner Crevani Farms. 

When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday (Aug. 9) at 6 p.m. there will be a $2,125 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta in the 13th race. 

Free full past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

NYSS glamour division at Batavia Tuesday for $119,800

By Tim Bojarski
its-a-me-mario-photo-by-ken-weingartner.jpg
Photo of It’s A Me Mario courtesy of Ken Weingartner.

The most anticipated division of New York Sire Stake horses will be at Batavia Downs on Tuesday (August 8). That’s when the 3-year-old pacing colts and geldings will assemble for one, $119,800 dash that headlines a 14-race card beginning at 6 p.m. 

The track handicapper has given the nod to Metal Man as the early choice, a horse that has shown some great speed this year, but also inconsistency. 

Metal Man (Huntsville-Apple Delight) was unraced at two, but started his 3-year-old season a winner in an overnight at the Meadowlands in 1:52.3. In his next start he broke and then was subsequently scratched in back-to-back races. He qualified back after five weeks off and then won back to back overnight races at Yonkers, one in 1:52.4 over the hilltop half mile. Since that time he has made consecutive breaks again and was forced to qualify on July 12. He just won his last outing in another overnight at Yonkers in 1:53.2, but he has yet to win a NYSS event. 

Jim Morrill Jr. will be up behind Metal Man for the first time for trainer Travis Alexander and has drawn post five. 

It’s A Me Mario (American Ideal-Nf Salsa) is one of only two horses in this race that has won a NYSS event this year and has already faced the best 3-year-olds in the country. After starting the year with four straight wins at Yonkers, It’s A Me Mario won his first NYSS event at Vernon in a lifetime best 1:49.4 effort to run his streak to five. He then headed to the Grand Circuit and had some bad draw and racing luck. In the Messenger at Yonkers he drew post seven and was 11-¼ lengths off the leader at the quarter before taking air for almost the rest of the mile. Then in the Meadowlands Pace elimination, he drew post seven again but was able to finish a very impressive third, timed in 1:48.3. Then in that final, It’s A Me Mario drew post eight, was tenth at the half and chased an impossible :52.2 back half and :25.4 last quarter set by Confederate. His next outing was a NYSS race at Monticello where he drew post seven and was interfered with before the quarter, but still was able to grab a check. 

He still drew post six in here, but It’s A Me Mario looks for some better racing luck this week for driver Lauren Tritton who will steer for trainer Shane Tritton.  

The other NYSS winner from this year is Duval Street (Huntsville-Native Bride) who got that 1:52.4 tally at Saratoga on June 24, but that wasn’t his best outing of the season. Duval Street has a pair of 1:50.2 victories; one at the Meadows in a 7-½ length romp and one at Mohegan Sun Pocono. He finished third in his last two starts, which were both NYSS events, behind Thunder Hunter Joe and Storm The Court, neither of which are entered here this week. His versatility allows him to either leave or race from behind, giving him a big advantage if the inside speed develops early. 

Regular driver Jason Bartlett is back behind Duval Street for trainer Ed Hart and they will start from post three. 

There are also three $20,000 NYSS Excelsior divisions on the program and those splits will be contested in races six, seven, and eight. The NYSS main event is carded as race 10. 

Free full past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

Chindano stars in Batavia double feature

By Tim Bojarski
dewanslittlelorie.jpg
Photo of Dewanslittlelorie courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

The Batavia Downs spotlight shone brightly on Joe Chindano Jr. Saturday night (August 5) as he trained and drove the winners of both weekly features while producing one record-breaking performance in the process.

First, in the $15,000 Open, I trot, Chindano won with Dewanslittlelorie, who was the lone mare in the race that showed up the boys as she went gate to wire in track record time. 

Dewanslittlelorie had little trouble grabbing the lead from post two and cruised in command to the quarter in :28 flat. As Con Air Hall (Jim Morrill Jr.) tracked from the garden spot, Johnny Boy (Kevin Cummings) mounted an outside attack from fourth at the half and pushed the three-quarters to 1:25.3. But that didn’t put a crimp in Dewanslittlelorie’s plans as she rebuffed the challenge before she rounded the last turn. Dewanslittlelorie entered the lane comfortably on top and stretched out to a 2-¼ length margin of victory in 1:55.2. 

The winning time established a new Batavia Downs track record for an aged trotting mare (1:56.1).

It was the third win in the last four starts and the fifth win overall this year for Dewanslittlelorie ($5.30) who is owned by Fox Racing and RBH Ventures. 

Then in the $15,000 Open I Handicap pace, Chindano lit up the board with Villiam, who brushed late to victory in a thrilling finish. 

Villiam got away seventh and trailed the leading Mark Witha K (Todd Cummings) by 11-¼ lengths at the quarter. While Out On Bail (Jim Morrill Jr.) followed closely in second, Mark Witha K paced sharply on the point to the half where Rally Your Crew (Denny Bucceri) made a first-over bid with Villiam following loosely behind in the breeze. Rally Your Crew’s bid fell apart midway up the backstretch, forcing Villiam three-deep before the three-quarters. As the group passed that station, Mark Witha K was still in command by over a length while Out On Bail tipped out, forcing Villiam three-deep again. Heading for the line, Mark Witha K was still the one to catch and Villiam was the one to do it, as he flew down the track and tripped the beam first in 1:54.3 in a seasonal best effort. 

It was also the fifth win of the year for Villiam ($20.20) and owner Anthony Evgenikos.

Jim Morrill Jr. and Dave McNeight III both had driving triples on Saturday. 

When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Tuesday (Aug. 8) at 6 p.m., there will be a $1,662 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta in the 14th race. Also on Tuesday, the New York Sire Stakes will be back in town featuring the 3-year-old pacing colts and geldings going one division for a hefty purse of $119,800. 

Free full card past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

villiam.jpg
Photo of Villiam courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Photos: Don Felder at Batavia Downs

By Howard B. Owens
don felder at Batavia Downs

Supporting acts for headliner Don Felder were the High Water Band and Yachut Fathers.

Photos by Nick Serrata.

don felder at Batavia Downs
don felder at Batavia Downs
don felder at Batavia Downs
don felder at Batavia Downs
don felder at Batavia Downs

Batavia hosts NYSS frosh filly pacers Wednesday

By Tim Bojarski
camerican-photo-by-mikelizzi.jpg
Photo of Camerican courtesy of Mike Lizzi

For the second consecutive day, the New York Sire Stakes will set up shop at Batavia Downs on Wednesday (August 2) when the 2-year-old pacing fillies come to town. There are two divisions sporting short and evenly matched fields that will go postward for a total of $110,100 in purses. 

The first group will compete for $54,100 and feature three-morning line co-favorites. 

Camerican (American Ideal-Camille) is the top points and earnings filly of this division and comes in off a big effort in a NYSS event at Yonkers Raceway where she took her lifetime mark of 1:55.2. She has two wins and two seconds in four lifetime starts and has flashed some good finishing speed for trainer Ron Burke. Jordan Stratton is in the bike, starting from post three. 

Similarly, Delightville (Huntsville-D D Delightful) has also won in a lifetime best of 1:55.3 at Yonkers last week and has two wins this year as well, justifying her co-favorite status here. Matt Kakaley will steer for Travis Alexander from post one.  

Also in the mix is Peace Talks (American Ideal-Triple V Hanover) who got her initial career win at Yonkers last week while easily pulling away by 3-1/4 lengths in 1:56. She has not missed the board in three starts and drew well for this start with post two. Jason Bartlett will drive for trainer Chris Ryder.  

The second division is a five-horse field with a purse of $56,000. 

Bronx Barista (Huntsville-Apricot Sour) started her year with two wins before a disappointing finish in her last outing at Yonkers, where she finished a distant sixth. The filly qualified at the Meadowlands three days later in a sparkling 1:52.1 mile with a fast last quarter of :26.4. This will be her third start in the last eight days. Mark Macdonald will drive from post four for trainer Ray Schnittker.

Blue Point (Huntsville-Amber Blue Chip) has a win and two seconds this year, all in NYSS action, with her only board miss after an unfortunate break three starts ago. That seemed to be an anomaly as she has since taken a lifetime mark of 1:54.3 at Saratoga. Blue Point is sure to get a lot of consideration here as Jason Bartlett will steer from post five for trainer Ed Hart.  

So Well Dressed (So Surreal-Gotmyreddressontnit) currently sits second for both points and earnings in this division behind Camerican, after winning her first two NYSS events of the year. She has not had the best racing luck since then but still finished an impressive third in her last outing. She drew post two and driver Jim Morrill Jr. will steer for trainer Chuck Connor Jr. 

There are also four $20,000 NYSS Excelsior divisions in the program and those splits are in races six, seven, eight, and nine. The NYSS races are carded as races 10 and 11. Post time for the first race on Tuesday is 6 p.m.

Authentically Local