Ohio's Brian Brown Prepping His Squad for Sire Stakes and Grand

DRF HARNESS HOME DIGITAL HARNESS EYE HARNESS PPS DRF BETS ENTRIES ARCHIVE THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2020 Ohio’s Brian Brown prepping his squad for Sire Stakes and Grand Circuit action NEW PLAYERS liant talent in limited appearances throughout his juvenile and sophomore campaigns. JAYWALKING Last year he made just 11 starts, with his final outing, a 1:48 1/5 victory at The Red Mile, DOUBLE YOUR By Jay Bergman somewhat bittersweet. “We had issues with FIRST DEPOSIT his white blood count throughout the year,” @BergmanJay said Brown. “When we brought him back in the fall, he raced very well at Hoosier in the UP TO $250 Jenna’s Beach Boy and then won at The Red Trainer Brian Brown was hard at work Mile, but he got sick on us again.” JOIN NOW last week as Ohio harness racing moved with swift fashion to get as many horses as possible qualified in advance of tracks re-opening for business. For Brown, who has an abundance of horses with Ohio roots, the current timing is crucial towards having horses ready for stakes action that begins almost immediately. “They’ve got Sire Stakes for 3-year-old colts and fillies at Northfield on June 6,” said Brown. “I’d like to get a qualifier into them and maybe an overnight.” The logistics at Inside this issue this point in time will likely leave many trainers with schedules that need to be modified. Derick Giwner: Harness Racing should Fortunately for Brown, who bases his operation out of the Delaware County Fairgrounds, be Rockin’ Round the Clock, Page 4 Derick Giwner the track opened for qualifiers last week, Trainer Brian Brown is hoping for a Ron Burke has an Ohio trotting filly although everything didn’t go exactly as rebound in 2020 after some tough luck last with serious promise; updates on planned either. “We had about 4 inches of rain year. Atlanta and more, Page 5 overnight and we had to cancel,” said Brown of an initial delay on May 19 that would only The lament of a 3-year-old season is tough Balanced group of 16 to meet in cost the horses two days of action, since those on the trainer and can cloud the reputation Sunday’s Elitloppet, Page 6 qualifiers were rescheduled for May 21. horses’ gain with the public unaware of the Brown didn’t appear concerned about miss- whys of a season. Just looking back on Workin Keith Gisser: Racing is back with a new ing a few days since he’s taken a different Ona Mystery’s third-place finishes in the norm, Page 7 approach than some trainers during the stop- finals of the North America Cup and Meadow- page of racing. “My horses were kept active lands Pace, it is hard not to glean what might On The Backstretch: Profile of owner and I would train them between 2:10-2:15 have been had the trips been easier. In each Frank Baldachino, Page 8 every other week,” said Brown, who wanted of those critical sophomore contests, Workin to have his horses ready once states were Ona Mystery was parked to the half in 52 4/5, Industry: Drivers hurt at Northfield; given the word to go forward. a fraction that softened him up ever so slightly Handle soars in Ohio; New Jersey back Brown has a diverse group of horses of all and could have turned wins into those third- to qualifying, Page 10 ages that are preparing to race both nation- place finishes. ally and locally, and he’s hopeful that 2020 will “He’s been training back great,” said Comments? Questions? be the year that perhaps one mystery will be Brown. “We had planned to give him time off Email the Editor [email protected] solved. The 4-year-old Workin Ona Mystery, a son of Captaintreacherous, has shown bril- CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Derick Giwner Workin Ona Mystery displayed big talent early in his 3-year-old campaign and hopes to produce results this year.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 mutuel victories. “He’s eligible for non-winners of 3 if we can find a race or two for him,” said Brown. Seeyou At Thebeach was solid with after last year and bring him back in June.” a 1:56 first qualifier on May 21. The Graduate, which was supposed to begin May 2 at The Mead- Fortify, eligible for non-winners of 2 company, made his sopho- owlands but will have a first leg on June 14 at Tioga, is on Workin more qualifying debut in style with a swift 1:55 mile as well. A 1:50 Ona Mystery’s schedule, and that could mean a reengagement with 3/5 Kentucky Sire Stakes leg winner in 2019, Fortify is a son of Sweet division leader Bettor’s Wish, if Brown elects to enter the opening leg. Lou and first foal from a sister to the dam of Always B Miki. “He’s “I’m going to try to qualify him Friday or Saturday (May 29/30) and a nice colt that has come back better than last year,” said Brown of again the following week before deciding where to go.” Fortify. Brown also confirmed that Proof is on the comeback trail after a Brown started the winter with 40 babies to train and confirms that long absence. The son of A Rocknroll Dance scored impressively in a about 35 are still on course for the coming season. Four years ago he 1:48 1/5 clocking in the Hempt eliminations last June at The Downs at was preparing Downbytheseaside for his first season at the track and Mohegan Sun Pocono but finished sixth as the heavy favorite in the that son of Somebeachsomewhere would go on to become the second final before his sophomore season was wiped out. Unfortunately, he richest male horse to date from that sire, with more than $2.1 million was below par in his first qualifier, making a first-over move early in in career earnings. This year Brown has three sons of the late-stallion the mile before fading badly. “He was very dehydrated,” said Brown that he believes are on track for stakes action in 2020. “I really like Six about the 4-year-old after the race. “He seems fine now (May 25). I’m Degrees,” said Brown. “I couldn’t get him to do very much before we going to train him tomorrow and then fast on Friday. That should tell gelded him in December, but since then he’s shown a lot of potential.” me if he is ok.” A $110K yearling at last year’s Harrisburg Sale, Six Degrees may be Brown is usually loaded with 3-year-olds for Grand Circuit action a bit different from your typical colt by the sire. “He’s on the smaller and he didn’t shy away from considering a few likely candidates, but side but covers a lot of ground,” said Brown. at the same time, stated what is obvious. “I have a lot of nice 3-year- The Legend Hanover, a $35,000 purchase at Harrisburg, appears to olds that are non-winners of 2 and non-winners of 3 at the moment,” be heading in the right direction. Brown considers Bayfield Beach, said Brown. another son of the late stallion, as a horse that may need time. “I That’s where the problems begin, not just for Brown but for so many think he’s a big horse that is going to find his speed a little later,” said trainers that condition horses that need some races before stakes Brown. Bayfield Beach was a $105K yearling purchase with a pedi- action. They may be thrust into battle early because of an evolving gree that has seven full brothers and sisters, including the sub-1:50 schedule. “I really need to find tracks where I can race some of these standouts Melmerby Beach and Lawrencetown Beach. horses. It would be great if The Meadows were to open.” On the filly front, Brown has a daughter of first-crop sire Always B Clearly Brown would like to have a place to see his sophomore Miki that he’s extremely fond of. Seeyou At Thebeach get a chance to get some prep races in. The son As with most horsemen, Brown knows what he can control, and of Somebeachsomewhere finished fourth in last year’s Metro Final at that’s the health and conditioning of his horses. You can expect them Woodbine Mohawk Park but enters the 2020 season with just two pari- to be ready for battle when more states open fully.

DRF Harness Weekend | 3 | May 28, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness Harness Racing should be Rockin’ Round the Clock

so in handle to Tuesday’s total of $1,984,499 is considered good when taking into account the lack of competition, but when you come within EDITOR’S EYE a couple hundred-thousand of a handle record ($2,267,914) which has stood for nearly two decades, how do you complain? By Derick Giwner @harnesseyeguy There are many words and numbers above used to prove one simple point that should be common sense. Less competition means increased handle. The big question is how can the Harness industry Like it or not, tragedy brings about opportunity. While COVID-19 maximize profits for all tracks during these post COVID-19 days. The shuttered the sport of Harness Racing for months and caused approx- answer is to fill most of the spots on the clock. Using Eastern time, imately 100,000 deaths in the United States, the Standardbred indus- that means tracks starting at 10 AM and going until about 1AM daily. try has been left with a chance to unify and remodel to form a more The arguments against racing at thought-to-be crazy hours or not perfect union. on the weekends was always that is would come at the cost of on-track Pre COVID-19, Harness Racing, like every other sport in the attendance. But in these days, with fans not permitted at any tracks world, had problems. We could argue for days which issue should be for the time being, those arguments are moot. at the top of the list, but oversaturation and conflicting post time is Think about it, if a harness track started at 10AM and we added certainly paramount. The number of racetracks exceeds the demand one new one every two hours, there would never be more than two-to- for the product. The easiest way to prove this fact is to examine handle three tracks racing at one time and up to seven tracks could race on during the Pandemic. any given day in synchrony. Scioto Downs averaged about $220,000 in handle per card in 2019. Of course, there will be battles as to which track races at 10AM or As the only harness track in North America on May 22,23 and 25, 10PM, but should there really be a battle. If fans can’t attend, isn’t the the Ohio tracks saw its handle average north of $1.1 million, a 410% 10AM spot, when you are only going up against foreign races, a prime increase. one as opposed to undesirable? While some argued that coming in at just over $1 million was a soft The fairest method is to randomly select slots for each track racing total given that Scioto was the only Standardbred facility in business, during that month. So, if six tracks are racing on Monday, June 1, we it is an extremely one-sided view considering the obstacles that the put them all in a computerized randomizer and it spits out the order. track had to overcome to post such an increase. First, over a short Safeguards should be put in place so that a track can’t continually get period, hundreds of horses had to qualify for racing and the track had the “worst” slot more than a certain number of times a month. Also, to get the word out of its return. Second, as the $220K average handle each track should be given the option to choose a handful of dates from 2019 screams loud and clear, people are not familiar with Scioto when it can have the post time it wants. This would allow The Mead- or the regular trainers, drivers and horses, and because of that, they owlands to have a prime spot for Hambletonian Day or Meadowlands are less likely to bet. Third, and perhaps most important, the fact that Pace night, or Pocono to get the time it wants for the Sun Stakes card. not one horse had a pari-mutuel past performance line since March Post times don’t need to be on a strict schedule because there will could have been a huge turn-off for many prospective casual players not be a ton of overlap, but tracks will be expected to “stay off” each who don’t have the time to watch 50-100 qualifiers in a few days to other (not start races at the same time) and be courteous to fellow prepare properly for wagering. tracks. Getting back to the actual Scioto handle . . . we witnessed through- Tioga and Vernon Downs certainly understood the opportunity and out the three nights of racing exactly what needs to occur in Harness wisely adjusted scheduling for June to move off Friday and Saturday Racing for tracks to survive – cooperation. Every race during the dates for Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Both tracks also altered three nights when Scioto was the only track in the country going off post times to 4:00 PM to stay off stronger signals racing earlier in the within a 10-minute timeframe (at least five minutes since the last race afternoon. and five minutes before the next race), it posted handle totals above Obviously, both tracks will revert to the original plans once fans $100,000. The three times it happened on May 25 - races 5, 9 and 10 - the are allowed to attend live racing. I understand the lure of having more track handled $158,744, $117,893 and $163,099, respectively. During the people on site during the weekend, but maybe handle will be strong rest of the 14-race card, the track only went over $100K once and aver- enough to support the new schedule where the competition isn’t quite aged $68K per race, while going up against Remington Park, Santa as tough? Either way, I applaud the forward thinking in June. Anita and Assiniboia at points during the night. To use a common theme from the COVID-19 pandemic, we are in Some people will point to the TVG-effect as the reason behind a this together. We should not be 50 or whatever individual tracks, but portion of the higher handle, but when Scioto was on TVG every race one industry. later in the night, while going off in close proximity to other tracks, handle never broke $100K. Of course being live on TVG probably helped increase handle, but it is not as big a factor as competition. Another often mentioned reason for increased handle is field size, and there is no doubt that a larger field will perform better in terms of New York tracks opening soon? handle than a short field, but at least in the Harness game, and specifi- cally as it related to Scioto on Monday night, there was no relation- While Tioga Downs (June 7) and Vernon Downs (June 10) have ship between field size and handle. Case in point: announced dates to return to live racing, other New York Stan- • Races 4 and 5 both had 10 horses and the difference in handle dardbred tracks have yet to formally circle dates on the calendar. between them was nearly $80K. Tracks in New York may open without fans starting June 1 • Races 7 and 8 both had 10-horse fields and there was a $40K differ- assuming they comply with specific guidelines. That document ence in handle between the two. was released during the afternoon hours on May 27 and DRF Northfield Park had much less competition when it debuted follow- Harness has learned that track officials at Yonkers Raceway, ing the COVID-19 shutdown on Tuesday, May 26. Facing only Fonner Saratoga and Monticello are currently reviewing the regulations Park for the first 60 percent of the card and then adding in Assiniboia to make sure they can properly comply with all restrictions. nationally, the same metrics rang true. It is expected that more information on when these tracks will During the 15-race card, Northfield went off within five minutes open will come in the next few days. of another North American track four times and averaged $102K in In related news, the New York Gaming Commission voted handle for those races. In the remaining 11 races, the track averaged to relax qualifying restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic $143K, with the highest totals coming when the next track was more and all horses will not be required to get a charted line prior to than 10 minutes from starting a race. racing. We could argue whether going from an average night of $900K or

DRF Harness Weekend | 4 | May 28, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness Ron Burke has an Ohio trotting filly with serious promise

Conrad Photo A Classy Filly (6) came charging home Monday to just miss at Scioto Downs for trainer Ron Burke.

By Jay Bergman “I think we’ll give her one more overnight race,” said Burke of A Fancy Face, with June 19 being the target date for Ohio Sire Stakes There is no doubt that 2020 will be a different year for many sports. action. Now, as the calendar moves to June, Harness Racing and its partici- “We’ve paid her up into some other races in Kentucky as well,” said pants find themselves in catch-up mode. Horses that should have been Burke. racing and gaining experience will suddenly be thrust into battle for A Fancy Face has an interesting bottom line to her pedigree. She major stakes money. is the first foal from the Muscle Massive-sired Alliomi, an un-raced Trainer Ron Burke still has much of his stable in a holding pattern, mare from Allianna. Allianna is the last foal from the mare Aimees but thanks to Ohio’s opening last week, he finally had the chance to Promise, who happened to produce a pair of $1 million winners in get the 3-year-old trotting filly A Fancy Face on the track Monday at Grain Of Truth and Celebrity Secret. This family has waited a long Eldorado Scioto Downs. “She had some road trouble and got backed time for a filly to emerge, with Aimees Promise’s six fillies to race up and that cost her the race,” said Burke on Tuesday (May 26). earning a grand total of $7,785 and her two male foals banking $2.6 A Fancy Face is an interesting study. As a $37,000 yearling million collectively. purchase, she made her pari-mutuel debut finishing second, but Burke has his stable poised for a return to racing in Pennsylvania, tipping her hand at what looks to be a bright stakes future in the with both Crucial and Sister Sledge having trained multiple times in Buckeye State. 1:56 in preparation for their sophomore debuts. “We liked her all along last year,” said Burke. “She trained down The $1.9 million-winner Atlanta appears ready for what could be with Sister Sledge and Crucial.” While those two would go on to multi- her best season ever. The 2018 Hambletonian champion is well on her ple stakes victories in 2019, A Fancy Face, a daughter of My MVP, was way to a 5-year-old debut when the time comes. sidelined after winning her first baby race in June at The Meadows. “Yannick (Gingras) trained her the other day and he told me she’s “She had filling in her ankle,” said Burke. “It was 50/50 whether to go never been better,” said Burke. Atlanta won eight of her 15 starts in on with her or not and we decided to give her time.” 2019, her first year with Burke training. That decision had A Fancy Face ready for action in March, but after Burke is based primarily in Pennsylvania and has many stakes winning her qualifier in 2:00 on March 12 at The Meadows, there horses gearing up for Sire Stakes and Grand Circuit action. “I think would be no pari-mutuel action for the filly until this past Monday. we’re maybe a week or so away from the state turning ‘Green’,” said The non-winners-of-1 affair turned out to be a spectacular effort in Burke, referring to the color code that would allow pretty much all defeat, as A Fancy Face and driver Chris Page were caught in the back facilities to operate in modified and full form. For Burke and other through a very soft opening half mile, yet showed explosive speed the horsemen that base operations in the Keystone State, the green light final quarter mile to miss by a head in a 1:55 3/5 mile. That she trot- would also pave the way for some return to gaming action, a necessity ted a final half in 55-flat while racing wide appears to bode well for a in helping to keep purses at a solid level. future stakes star in Ohio.

DRF Harness Weekend | 5 | May 28, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness Balanced group of 16 meet up in 2020 Elitloppet eliminations

By Derick Giwner experience, none finished better than fifth in the final and Sorbet and Disco Volente did not get past the first heat. Trotters from five countries across Europe will convene at Solvalla The newcomers include Vivid Wise As (post 1), Missle Hill (post 4), Racetrack on Sunday, May 31 for the 2020 Elitloppet. Although the Chief Orlando (post 5) and Earl Simon (post 8). Of the group, Missle Hill premier International event may lack the same fanfare as in past years comes in with the best form, having won two straight races, both at a due to COVID-19 restrictions that will keep tens-of-thousands of patrons similar distance (1640m) to the Elitloppet. Earl Simon leads the second on the outside looking in, the show will go on, and is likely to produce elim field in earnings at 8.95 million Krona (just over $931K U.S.). an interesting result considering the composition of the 16-horse group. While COVID-19 prevented any North American horses from Early wagering presents the Elitloppet as a wide-open affair, with making the trek over the Atlantic Ocean, the U.S. is well-represented Propulsion listed by ATG as a rising 7.00 favorite (as of 1PM May 28) by way of Muscle Hill. The superstar stallion with double-digit over Tae Kwon Deo (8.13), Elian Web (9.25) and Milliondollarrhyme millionaires to his credit has a trio of sons in the field. Missle Hill, (9.67) and Cokstile (9.84). Four other horses from the bunch are listed Tae Kwon Deo and Propulsion technically represent Sweden but trace at 17.12 or lower. their roots to Muscle Hill and began their careers in the States. For Deo Volente Farms owner Michael Gulotta, seeing a colt he bred win the Elitloppet would be the thrill of a lifetime. “We would be abso- lutely thrilled out of our minds if the horse was to win,” said Gulotta, who still owns the Tae Kwon Deo’s mom, Brigham Dream. “We would be so proud that if in just the first few years of our breeding operation, that we could produce an Elitloppet winner and establish our farm as an international force.” Post time for the first elimination heat of the Elitloppet, race 6 on the card, is 11:20 AM E.D.T. The second elimination heat is set for 11:45 AM. Due to the lack of spectators, the 6,000,000 Krona (approx. $624,000 U.S.) final is expected to be later in the day this year, with an estimated post time of 2:30 E.D.T. 1st Elimination - Race 6 - 11:20 AM E.D.T.

1 Vivid Wise As Björn Goop

2 sorbet Per Linderoth

3 disco Volante carl Johan Jepson

4 Missle Hill johan Untersteiner

5 chief Orlando rikard Skoglund

6 Milliondollarrhyme fredrik Larsson

7 Looking Superb jomar Blekkan Derick Giwner Trainer Daniel Reden has three horses in Sunday’s Elitloppet, 8 earl Simon franck Ouvrie including early betting favorite Propulsion. 2nd Elimination - Race 7 - 11:45 AM E.D.T. One of those horses taking action and in with a fighting chance is Cokstile, a Norwegian bred with an Italian trainer (Rocco Spagnulo) 1 elian Web Jorma Kontio and Swedish driver (Christoffer Eriksson). The 7-year-old earned his spot in the Elitloppet with a very impressive off-the-pace victory 2 Billie de Montfort Gabriele Gelormini in the Algot Scotts Minne at Åby in Sweden, easily besting Billie de Montfort (third), who drew post 2, three slots inside Cokstile in the 3 tae Kwon Deo Adrian Kolgjini elimination. “Cokstile got an ok post and I think he has a good chance to go to the 4 Attraversiamo erik Adielsson final,” said Eriksson, who was also hopeful for a strong performance in the 1609-meter two-heat event. “It feels like we can have a good 5 cokstile Christoffer Eriksson chance to win (the final) right now. We will have to see which race he 6 racing Mange joakim Lövgren does in the elimination.” Also in the second elimination are early public choices Propulsion 7 Makethemark Ulf Ohlsson (post 8), Elian Web (post 1) and Tae Kwon Deo (post 3), so the task won’t be easy for Cokstile, who makes a return appearance in the Elitloppet 8 propulsion örjan Kihlström after a poor showing two years ago. Propulsion was second in both the 2017 and 2018 finals. The now 9-year-old finished fourth in 2019 and has not raced since finishing 11th in the Prix d’Amerique back in January for trainer Daniel Reden, who also sends out Missle Hill and Sorbet in the eliminations Follow on Sunday. The first elimination is split evenly between newcomers and 2019 Elitloppet competitors. Sorbet (post 2), Disco Volente (post 3), Million- dollarrhyme (post 6) and Looking Superb (post 7) make return trips to Solvalla on the last Sunday in May. While all now have Elitloppet

DRF Harness Weekend | 6 | May 28, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness race tracks around Labor Day. As states loosen restrictions, tracks will be able to offer a wagering CONFESSIONS experience with social distancing - many big players, when on-track, already use self -service terminals rather than live tellers. The extra By Keith Gisser downtime will give tracks a chance to close off live teller windows with plexiglass shields. They will be able to configure concession stands similarly, although seating areas will probably need to be limited at first. All you can eat buffets are probably history, a victim of the COVID-19 virus that Brower and I will both lament. Racing is back with a new norm The toughest part of the return to normalcy will be how the tracks handle promotions once fans are allowed back. Those events, whether We’re back! At 6:45 PM on Friday, May 22, a field of eight mares went featuring spinning prize wheels, handicapping contests or family- behind the starting gate at Eldorado Scioto Downs, near Columbus, friendly events like face painters, are all high risk for exposure, due to Ohio. One minute and fifty-two seconds later, Duck Duck Dragon and close contact with others. The prize wheel would need to be disinfected Chris Page became the first North American harness horse to win after every spin. We may well see these promotions held outside, rather a race with a purse since Sweet One and Luke Plano posted a win in than in the grandstand. The logistics are a nightmare, especially since the nightcap at Cal Expo on March 31. Fifty-two days with no harness some states have not provided tracks with guidelines yet. But, just as racing. Surprisingly, most of us survived. other businesses have adapted to the new normal, I think racing has The racing landscape is very different than it was then. No fans the resources to make it work. are allowed at the track and at least one individual I am aware of was In talking to management at tracks that have hosted my Handicap- warned away from the live Scioto action, despite watching from outside ping Herpetologist program, we have agreed that this year is probably a fence. Perhaps he didn’t have on a face covering, but who knows? a loss (although Running Aces is holding out hope that we may be able Wagering is being conducted only via computer at this time. And a to reschedule). Realistically, there are just too many uncertainties. In lot of wagering was going on at Scioto over the weekend, as the track Ohio, the state fair has been canceled (The Ohio state fair stakes have produced million-dollar-plus handles both nights, topping histori- been raced at Scioto Downs for years). But we have no idea what the cal records. Ohio races have been streamed live on Facebook with a 60-plus county fairs that host harness racing will look like. Will the Who’s Who of commentators, including Dave Brower, Roger Huston fairs be held? Will there be fans? Will the races be held, but the fairs and Derick Giwner. canceled? Crawford County (Bucyrus) says yes. We will race. We will By the time you read this, Northfield Park, also in Ohio, will be have to wait and see with most others. racing, and other tracks are gearing up to start. Hoosier Park in Indi- The biggest uncertainty of all is at those tracks that are subsidized ana is holding qualifiers and American Racing’s Tioga Downs (June by casino or video lottery funds. Those facilities have a much larger 7) and Vernon Downs (June 10) are looking at early June starts, with problem adjusting, and since social distancing pretty much by defini- several days of qualifiers. tion means fewer tables or machines, handle will go down. That means Best of all, county fair racing also returned, with What Cheer in Iowa the subsidy to the purse accounts will also drop. The tracks must work hosting a 16-race card (with total purses of just under $14,000) on May harder to generate handle. 24 and Minnesota Harness Racing hosing cards May 30 and June 6 at Scioto Downs had a great opening weekend, but as other tracks open, the Barron County Fairgrounds in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. will they cannibalize that handle? That big weekend surprised me. I So racing is back, and the horsemen, owners and supporting busi- sat on the sidelines and will wet my toes slowly. The idea of betting an nesses can get back to work. Our nearly two-month staycation has entire card of “First-starters in last 60 days off one qualifier,” is a daunt- ended, but our sport looks very different. Can we survive with just ing one that I chose to skip. Having said that, I posted four winners in remote wagering and no fans? the seven Northfield races posted during the Facebook Live broadcast. Long-term, I think the answer is no. Fortunately, I don’t think Will enough fans return -- virtually or in person -- to spread the we will have to worry about it long term. In fact, I strongly believe wealth, to horsemen, tracks and horseplayers? That remains to be seen. (whether for good or bad) that we will be wagering in person at most But for now, go cash on the track of your choice. See you next month.

Conrad Photo Making his 3-year-old debut, freshman Ohio Sire Stakes trotting colt champion Action Uncle rolled by 4-year-old Shake N Bake in the stretch to win in a career best 1:53 4/5 for driver Brett Miller and trainer Virgil Morgan, Jr.

DRF Harness Weekend | 7 | May 28, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness Did you ever want to know more about the people involved in the harness industry? Editor Derick Giwner combs the harness landscape each week to profile a new personality from the sport.

Owner Frank Baldachino What kind of car do you drive? Lexus RX350. Favorite dinner meal? Snack? Grilled or broiled seafood with side of garlic mashed; anything chocolate. What is your favorite track to visit? Linscott Photo The “Big M“. I started going there when I was 16 years old and I Owner Frank Baldachino (right) got the Centaur Trotting grew up there. Classic trophy from then Hoosier owner Rod Ratcliff in 2016. What is your favorite event in racing? How did you get started in the sport? The Meadowlands Pace. I always dreamed of winning it while growing up, but unfortunately that hasn’t happened yet. In 1976, when the Meadowlands opened, my dad would take me and we’d watch his brother driver/trainer Gerald Baldachino. Have you come close? There would be 30,000 - 40,000 people and the place was lit! Talk about exciting; OMG! I’ve only had one horse, Cookerosa, in the elims years ago, and he never made final. The colt game has been tough going for me. Is Harness Racing part of your life more for passion or I guess you can say I’m a filly guy. profit? How often is racing on your mind? It is definitely a sport I’m passionate about and to make a profit Most times, especially at night. makes it even more rewarding. What is your favorite thing to do outside of racing? What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten about harness racing? Watching my son Joe play collegiate basketball for Misericordia University and my daughter Lexi performing on stage in musi- Never go broke making a profit! cals. Best of both worlds! You have a number of horses with trainer Ron Burke. What do you do for a living? How did you hook up with him? Real estate developer. It started back in 2006 with his dad Mickey Sr. I had 2 INSS (Indiana Sire Stakes) horses named Summer In Fiji and Go On What is your favorite sport to watch? Team? Bb, who both were champion 2- and 3-year-olds. It has evolved nicely from there. Football - Green Bay Packers. I bleed green and gold. What is one thing about you most fans/bettors don’t What role do you play in the Burke, Mark Weaver, know? Michael Bruscemi, Jerry Silva, etc. ownership dynamic? Silent partner? Major contributor? Something else? I really love coaching youth basketball. Somewhat contributor, in that I like to scout out young horses What is one word that describes harness racing for you? for the group to acquire.

Thrilling. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

DRF Harness Weekend | 8 | May 28, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

What was your favorite moment in harness racing? When Hannelore Hanover set the world record of 1:49 2/5 in the Allerage Open Trot and became the first female to trot under 1:50. What a moment! It is an interesting choice of races considering I don’t recall you being at the track that day. Am I right? Unfortunately, I could not make it to Lexington that weekend because my son had a fall basketball tournament. Snowstorm Hanover also won on Sunday in the Kentucky Futurity, so it was an all-around great weekend of hoops and horses! I did made it to Lexington last year (2019) and 2 previous times for KYSS (Kentucky Sire Stakes) finals. Which is your favorite horse that you’ve ever owned? Hannelore Hanover. She gave me so many once-in-a-lifetime thrills. All Bets Off is a solid second. Both are true superstars.

What has the experience been like standing All Bets Off? Is Derick Giwner he your first stallion to stand? Hannelore Hanover is Frank Baldachino’s favorite horse. All Bets Off’s stallion career is progressing really well so far. He’s been well-received in Ontario, with a nice book of mares in his first How has COVID-19 affected you personally? two seasons so far. The folks at Seelster Farms do a wonderful job and from the pictures I’ve seen of his foals, so far they all look awe- It’s been tough seeing people I knew pass away so quickly that were some! He is the first stallion I’ve been a part of and can’t wait for the of similar age. Business-wise our company has been able to work but Bets babies in 2022. at a much slower capacity. I’ve seen you get excited watching your horses race. What If you had the power to change one thing in the sport, what goes through your mind during a big race? would it be? I strategize as the race unfolds and then hope for the best. Hire a Roger Goodell-type commissioner to lead the sport back to prominence. How many horses do you currently own? How do you view the future of harness racing? 30. I’m optimistic if the owners of racetracks and racinos can attract Which horse(s) are you most looking forward to seeing from the 20-to-25-year-old age group to come out and embrace the entertainment experience and excitement of the sport, then keep them your stable in 2020? engaged so that they want to return. Ollie’s Z Tam and Semi Tough. I think both could be major players at 4, and naturally the 2-year-olds. If you had one wish in life, what would you wish for? For my wife and kids to be happy and healthy. Do you enjoy handicapping as well as owning? Oh yeah; when I’m home and have the time. Time for the stretch drive. Best Horse Ever: Somebeachsomewhere If so, do you fancy yourself a good handicapper? Best Driver Ever: John Campbell In my mind, yes! But my bank account says no. Lasix – Yes or No?: YES Other than the phone or messaging, what is the most used Best race you ever saw?: The 2015 Little Brown Jug. There were app on your mobile device? three horses at the wire together. Talk about exciting! I was part Twitter. owner of the third-place horse My Hero Ron, and for a brief moment, I thought he was going to get up at the wire.

If you could have a mulligan from your time in the sport, Trotters or Pacers?: Trotters what would it be? Favorite TV Show?: Crimminal Minds. I have seen every episode Not buying a piece of Sweet Lou. I was offered a piece and passed. and still watch all the re-runs.

DRF Harness Weekend | 9 | May 28, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness NEWS FROM AROUND THE HARNESS INDUSTRY

New stakes dates released for Mohawk Park Drivers hurt in Northfield accident Tuesday

Woodbine Entertainment today (5/25) announced new dates for An accident occurred heading to the three-quarter pole of race 13 several Standardbred stakes to be held this season at Woodbine on Tuesday night at Northfield Park. Four horses and drivers went Mohawk Park. down. Tony Hall and Hunter Myers were transported to the hospital The stakes rescheduling only impacts events that were originally and suffered injuries. slated for May or June. All other races remain the same on the 2020 According to Facebook reports, Hall has nine broken ribs and a stakes calendar. crushed vertebrae. Hunter Myers has a fracture in his jaw. As previously announced, the C$1 million Pepsi North America Cup Ryan Stahl suffered a mild concussion and is expected to return to for 3-year-old pacers has been rescheduled to Saturday, August 29. the bike Friday. Chris Lems won the next race on the card and was fine. The Fan Hanover (3-Year-Old Filly Pace), Roses Are Red (Mare All horses came out of the accident ok. Pace) and Armbro Flight (Mare Trot) have all been rescheduled to join the Pepsi North America Cup on Saturday, August 29. Eliminations (if necessary) for all four events will take place on Handle continues to soar in Ohio Saturday, August 22. The Goodtimes for 3-year-old trotting colts has been rescheduled Since racing resumed in North America on Friday, May 22, six to Saturday, September 5. Eliminations (if necessary) will be held on pari-mutuel programs have been run at Scioto Downs and Northfield Friday, August 28. Park, with each producing handle north of the $1 million mark. The Somebeachsomewhere for 3-year-old pacers has been resched- Racing May 22, 23, 25 and 27, Scioto has averaged just over $1.1 million on uled for Saturday, September 12. each card. Northfield, which raced on May 26 and 27, has nearly doubled The final event to be rescheduled is the SBOA Stakes for Ontario that total with an average of just over $2 million wagered on each card. sired 3-year-old fillies. The SBOA will now take place on Saturday, Ohio continues as the only State in the U.S. currently contesting live November 14 with eliminations (if necessary) scheduled for Saturday, harness racing. No other tracks are scheduled to resume until June November 7. 5, when The Meadowlands hopes to return in the U.S. and Woodbine Woodbine Mohawk Park will no longer play host to a leg of The Mead- Mohawk Park and Grand River are slated to come back in Canada. owlands administrated Miss Versatility Series (originally scheduled May 29) or Graduate Series (originally scheduled June 6) in 2020. The Meadowlands has confirmed with Woodbine their intentions to reschedule the Mohawk Park leg of the Miss Versatility for later Qualifiers in New Jersey start Friday this season at the New Jersey track, while the Graduate Series leg has been cancelled due to scheduling constraints. After months of anticipation, the Standardbred Breeders and Live Racing, without spectators, is scheduled to resume on Friday, Owners Association of New Jersey is very pleased to announce that June 5 at Woodbine Mohawk Park. New Jersey has been approved for qualifying dates. -edited release (woodbine) In conjunction with Dr. Karyn Malinowski of the Rutgers Science Center, the SBOANJ developed a very comprehensive “Risk Manage- ment and Racing Protocol” that had earlier been presented to Gover- Buckeye Stallion Series schedule revised nor Murphy and the New Jersey Racing Commission. This program will be implemented for the qualifying races and our return to racing With the resumption of racing in Ohio, the Ohio Harness Horse- at the Meadowlands. men’s Association is releasing the revised schedule for the Buckeye Qualifiers will be held at Gaitway on Friday, May 29, Sunday, May Stallion Series. 31, and Tuesday, June 2, for farm tenants only, no outside horses will The first leg of the 3-Year-Old Colt Trot series, which was sched- be permitted. The Meadowlands will host qualifiers on Saturday, uled for May 2nd at Miami Valley Gaming and Raceway, has been May 30. Magical Acres has applied to hold additional qualifiers on rescheduled for Monday June 15th at MGM Northfield Park. Leg two Monday, June 1, and Wednesday, June 3, pending approval from the has been rescheduled for June 30th at Eldorado Scioto Downs and the New Jersey Racing Commission. third leg will be July 14th at Eldorado Scioto Downs. Entries for training center qualifiers must be done online, through The 3-Year-Old Filly Pacer series has been rescheduled for Tues- the USTA etrack system. day June 16th at Eldorado Scioto Downs. The series was originally Post time at Gaitway on Friday and Tuesday will be 10:00 AM; while scheduled for April 30th at Miami Valley Gaming and Raceway. The Sunday’s post time will be 9:00 AM. Pending approval Magical Acres post second leg has been rescheduled for July 6th at MGM Northfield Park. time will be 9:00 AM for both days. Entry fee will be $100.00 per horse. The 3-Year-Old Colt Pacer series has also been rescheduled for Only essential personnel will be permitted on-site on qualifying Tuesday June 16th at Eldorado Scioto Downs. The series was origi- days; no owners or outside spectators are allowed. Proper PPE and nally scheduled for May 2nd at Miami Valley Gaming and Raceway. social distancing will be required for all participants, and all COVID- The second leg has been rescheduled for July 8th at Eldorado Scioto 19 safety protocols must be followed. Downs, with leg three July 20th at MGM Northfield Park. The SBOANJ sent a formal request to the NJRC for a “Waiver of The 3-Year-Old Filly Trot, which was originally scheduled for April the Commission’s Rules” in reference to the 45-day qualifying rule 30th at Miami Valley Gaming and Raceway, has been rescheduled for and administration of Lasix. It was proposed that the 45-day quali- Saturday June 20th at MGM Northfield Park. The second leg has been fying rule be temporarily amended. It was also requested that the rescheduled for July 1st at Eldorado Scioto Downs, with leg three July administration of Lasix, by a state-approved licensed veterinarian, 14th also at Eldorado Scioto Downs. be allowed to take place at training centers where horses are stabled. The schedule for legs four and five remains the same. Both requests are still pending NJRC approval. The OHHA would like to thank Dave Bianconi, the Executive Vice We will continue to work with the NJRC, in order to help minimize President of Racing and Simulcasting at MGM Northfield Park, and the number of trainers, drivers, and caretakers on-site at one time to Eldorado Scioto Downs Racing Secretary Jason Roth, for their assis- adhere to COVID-19 safety protocols. tance in rescheduling these races. Please be aware of the importance of following the safety provi- For additional information about the 2020 Buckeye Stallion Series sions that have been mandated. and a revised schedule please visit the OHHA website at www.ohha. For a copy of the “Risk Management Protocol” click here. For further com/nominations. information please contact the SBOANJ. Best of luck and safe racing. -edited release (OHHA) -release (SBOANJ)

DRF Harness Weekend | 10 | May 28, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness