TVG Farewell to a Pair of Extraordinary Mares

DRF HARNESS HOME DIGITAL HARNESS EYE HARNESS PPS DRF BETS ENTRIES ARCHIVE THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2020 TVG farewell to a pair of extraordinary mares

Trotting mare Manchego and pacing mare Kissin In The Sand will NEW PLAYERS make their final trips to the track on Saturday at The Meadowlands

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Saturday night will mark an end to the racing careers of two brilliant mares. Trainer Nancy Takter has been fortunate to be associ- ated with the likes of Kissin In The Sand and Inside this issue Manchego throughout their storied racing sagas. On Saturday, both are among the Fire Start Hanover heads Norman’s Fall favorites to capture TVG Finals at The Mead- Final Four team, Page 5 owlands before separating themselves from a sulky for the final time and moving on to No Lou Zing captures Progress Pace second careers. elimination, Page 7 What happens in the future to these soon- to-be broodmares is hard to know for certain, (above) Conrad Photo (below) Nikki Sherman Meadowlands Pick 5 stakes analysis, but what the pair have collectively brought (above) Trainer Nancy Takter collects the Page 7 to the racing world over the last four years is Dayton Distaff Derby trophy for Kissin In something worth taking a long look upon. The Sand with driver Dexter Dunn. (below) Darin Zoccali: New statistics on number “I would have to say her race in the Lynch Takter is all smiles with the 2019 Breeders of mares bred is promising, Page 8 was the most memorable,” said Takter, look- Crown trophy earned by Manchego. ing back at the epic performance of Kissin Takter duo take on older in TVG finals at In The Sand at The Downs at Mohegan Sun The Meadowlands, Page 9 Pocono back in the summer of 2018. For those with short memories, Kissin In The Sand On The Backstretch: Profile of trainer drew post nine on the outside of the Lynch Sheena McElhiney, Page 10 field despite winning her elimination. “I spoke with Marvin (Katz,-co-owner) after she Best bets and analysis, Page 12 drew post nine and he said ‘maybe we should Industry Headlines, Page 13 scratch her’. I didn’t think that was a good idea since the race was going for good money Comments? Questions? and we could still get second or third.” Email the Editor [email protected] According to Takter, driver Scott Zeron downplayed the outside post in advance of the To ensure proper delivery Lynch and suggested he could perhaps work out a trip for the daughter of Somebeachsome- of the newsletter via where despite the tough draw. The Lynch email, add [email protected].

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Ohio Stallion Registration Deadline November 30, 2020

For foals to be eligible to Ohio-restricted stakes, a stallion must be registered with the Ohio State Racing Commission & standing in Ohio during year of conception.

Forms for new & returning stallions can be found at www.racing ohio.net/OSDF.html For information, contact OSDF AdministratorKim Rinker at 614-779-0269 or [email protected]

323,600 Three Diamonds 451,800 Goldsmith Maid 398,650 Valley Victory 371,900 Governor's Cup

140,000 TVG Mare Trot $320,000 TVG Open Trot $150,000 TVG Mare Pace $340,000 TVG Open Pace

Derick Giwner Kissin In The Sand finally broke through with a Breeders Crown win this year at Harrah’s Hoosier Park.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 a lucrative broodmare band. “Nancy (Takter) convinced me that we should bring back Kissin In The Sand to race as a 4-year-old.” The trials and tribulations about Kissin In The Sand’s 4-year-old pitted Kissin In The Sand against her rival Youaremycandygirl, who season, where she was never quite able to succeed against a vintage had drawn post two for the race. As juveniles, Youaremycandygirl crop of older mares, might have forced her into retirement prior to the was the clear division leader but Kissin In The Sand came back as a 2020 season, but Katz deferred. As part owner of Tall Dark Stranger 3-year-old and had obviously closed the gap between the two. he was thinking ahead. Inevitably, the trip Zeron worked out for Kissin In The Sand “I wanted her first foal to be by Tall Dark Stranger,” said Katz. “I required the filly to remain parked on the outside for the entire mile also wanted her to win a Breeders Crown.” That second wish came distance, covering all turns an added distance away from the pylons. true just a few weeks ago and though Katz couldn’t be there to witness Making matters even worse was the lack of cover as Youaremycandy- it in person, it still ranked high on his list of Kissin In The Sand’s girl carved out torturous fractions of 26, 53 2/5 and 1:20 3/5 for the first greatest performances. “That’s a great group of mares that she’s three quarters of a mile. “At the three-quarters, I didn’t expect to get racing against,” Katz said, knowing full well that beating last year’s a check,” said Marvin Katz as he recalled the race vividly. “But she Horse of the Year Shartin N is never a given no matter what the was so tough and went past Youaremycandygirl in the end.” It was a circumstances. “Nancy’s done such a great job with her and I couldn’t match-race in the truest sense, with Kissin In The Sand’s will to win have been happier,” said Katz. the deciding factor. Manchego spent the first two years on the racetrack including an It was an epic performance by Kissin In The Sand and she followed undefeated 2-year-old campaign with a dozen victories under the it up with victories in the Mistletoe Shalee as well as a 1:47 4/5 win at tutelage of Hall of Famer Jimmy Takter. His daughter Nancy took The Red Mile leading up to the sophomore Breeders Crown date, once control in 2019 when Manchego was a 4-year-old and helped pave the again at Pocono. way towards the daughter of Muscle Hill becoming a world champion. The 2018 Breeders Crown for sophomore pacing fillies was contested “I would say that my most memorable race for Manchego was when over a sloppy track and would once again test the mettle of Kissin she set the world record at Dayton,” said Nancy Takter. Perhaps most In The Sand. Scott Zeron would again drive her and start from the surprising to Takter was the journey Manchego took just getting to outside post nine in the battle for supremacy, and the race would look Dayton. “We sent her up to race in the Maple Leaf and she freaked out much like the Lynch with the exception of the final result. Youaremy- on the trip and tore her leg up pretty good.” Though Manchego would candygirl and Kissin In The Sand were on near-even terms at the 25 qualify for the Maple Leaf final, she did not perform up to expecta- 4/5 opening quarter. The two battled through moderate middle-half tions and Takter sent the mare to Ohio to try to regroup. fractions and once again Kissin In The Sand won the match-race with “She won an overnight at Scioto,” said Takter, recalling the victory her rival. In the end, Percy Blue Chip, one of five fillies in the race in early September of 2019. “Still going into the race at Dayton I kind trained by Ron Burke, edged past Kissin In The Sand for the victory. of thought she was going to be a little short having not raced in three The loss didn’t sit well with owner Katz, who had obviously thought weeks.” the gifted filly deserved to have a title on her resume. “We usually stop with our fillies after the 3-year-old season,” said Katz, who has CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

DRF Harness Weekend | 3 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

To Takter’s surprise Manchego proved anything but short, as driver Dexter Dunn put her on the lead with a 26 3/5 opening quarter in the Dayton Trotting Derby and Manchego, despite intense pressure, marched away from her rivals by nine lengths in a world record 1:50 1/5 effort. In her next start, Manchego would take a career best 1:49 victory in the Allerage at the Red Mile. Takter took a great deal of pride in Manchego notching both the 2019 and 2020 Breeders Crowns, with the former her first in the class. “You know, in spite of all of my dad’s Breeders Crown victories he’s never had one in the Open Mares category,” Takter said. Perhaps Manchego’s best performance to date in 2020 came in the Spirit of Massachusetts at Plain- ridge Park in July when Dunn put Derick Giwner Manchego won her second Breeders Crown at Harrah’s Hoosier Park this year. her on the front in a still mind- numbing 25 2/5 opening quarter over the rock-hard five-eighths bought him for $330,000 with the idea in mind that he would be the oval. That quarter, as well as the taxing fractions that followed, took kind of horse he became. Winning the Metro at 2 and then coming the sting out of Atlanta on that afternoon and propelled Manchego to a back to win the North America Cup and Meadowlands Pace this year 1:49 3/5 world-record performance. and retire to Hanover Shoe Farms is really what the mission was,” “I have to think that no matter how long Plainridge exists that time Takter said. “As for the stable, I came back and told everyone that 2021 will never be broken,” said Takter. is going to be a rebuilding year. Teams that win the championship The next chapter in the careers of these two brilliant mares is about lose players to free agency all the time.” to unfold. For Takter, who also saw her champion Tall Dark Stranger Replacing horses of the caliber of Kissin In The Sand and Manchego exit to Hanover Shoe Farms just a week ago, there was time to pause will take time, as both enjoyed brilliant four-year racing careers. We and reflect. wish them and their connections the best of luck in their next endeav- “In thinking of Tall Dark Stranger, we went to Lexington and ors.

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DRF Harness Weekend | 4 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness Fire Start Hanover heads Norman’s ‘Final Four’ team

By Jay Bergman Bee Forever is a horse that has somewhat surprised Norman this It shouldn’t come as a surprise that some trainers don’t push 2-year- year. “Early on I wasn’t that sure olds early in the season. Trainer Richard “Nifty” Norman took the he was going to race this year,” easy road early, but that has paid off royally for Fire Start Hanover. The said Norman of the difficulty he Breeders Crown winner landed the rail for Saturday’s $323,600 Three had with the son of Muscle Hill. Diamonds, one of the ‘Final Four’ for freshman at the Meadowlands. Given that Bee Forever’s dam Fire Start Hanover, after winning but one of her first four races, has was former Horse of the Year strung together seven wins in her last eight starts and could be on the Bee A Magician, Norman had to precipice of a divisional title if she can continue that form this Saturday. struggle with the ultimate cut. “It “Yes, it’s pretty much what we planned,” said Norman about having took some convincing,” Norman Fire Start Hanover sharp towards year’s end. “I think she has one said in regard to the decision to more start in her, that’s for sure.” castrate Bee Forever. Norman was happy to see Fire Start Hanover, with Dexter Dunn Now months later, Bee Forever at the controls, land the pole position in the field of 11. “I think it’s a appears to be finding his groove. good spot that will allow her to get away in the top five,” said Norman. Derick Giwner “I’d say he’s improving with each Following her victory in the Breeders Crown at Harrah’s Hoosier ‘Nifty’ Norman and Fire Start start,” said Norman. “I think if he Park on October 30, Fire Start Hanover captured the Kindergarten Hanover. got some room, he could have won final at The Meadowlands in handy fashion. Norman knows that the Kindergarten.” Bee Forever Saturday’s Three Diamonds will pose a much more strenuous test for finished third while climbing over horses late in the Kindergarten. his filly. “This is a strong group of fillies,” Norman said. Still, Norman knows that the field for the Valley Victory may be One of those rivals is likely to be Notorious Pink, who landed post a bit too talented given Breeders Crown champion On A Streak’s three after winning a prep race last weekend at The Meadowlands. (post 4) presence in the group. “I hope we can get a check with both of The Tony Alagna-trained filly was clearly hindered after drawing them,” Norman said. post nine in the Breeders Crown but bounced back nicely last week. The trainer was a bit more optimistic of his chances for victory in Tim Tetrick will guide her from post three. the $451,800 Goldsmith Maid for juvenile trotting fillies. Beautiful Trainer Nancy Takter’s JK Alwaysbalady (post 11) is the second Game (post 6) has finished first or second in eight of her 11 juvenile foal from her former Horse of the Year JK She’salady. JK Alway- starts. “I don’t know why she made a break in the Breeders Crown sbalady was a head shy of Fire Start Hanover finishing second in the eliminations,” Norman said. “Maybe it was a blessing in disguise.” Breeders Crown. She’ll start right on her rivals back from the second- The blessing would be that Beautiful Game had time to freshen up tier looking for her third win of the year. and prepare for the Goldsmith Maid. Norman has starters in two of the other three Final Four events, The Goldsmith Maid drew a talented field of 11 with Breeders with Jack Fire (post 5) and Bee Forever (post 7) hoping to finish in Crown winner Lady Chaos landing post nine and the Kindergarten the money in the $398,650 Valley Victory for 2-year-old male trotters. Classic winner Anoka Hanover starting from post one. Adding more “Jack Fire is an overachiever,” said Norman. “He’s a bit on the small depth to this group is Pennsylvania Sire Stakes champion Flawless side but he’s good gaited and very handy.” Jack Fire has finished first Country (post 2) and Breeders Crown runner-up Mazzarati (post 11). or second in nine of his 12 starts as a freshman. A gelding by Cantab The Meadowlands Saturday program will also feature the TVG Hall, he enters the Valley Victory after a second-place finish in the Finals in four divisions as well as the $371,900 Governor’s Cup for Kindergarten Classic final. rookie pacing colts. First post for the 13-race program is 7:15 p.m.

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DRF Harness Weekend | 5 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness TVG FINALS AT THE MEADOWLANDS 5% REBATE Saturday, Nov. 21 Post Time: 7:15pm ET

Learn More Dover’s Progress Pace TVG Night Guaranteed Pool Spotlight elimination goes to No Lou Zing

By Derick Giwner

Nine of the 10 stakes races on Saturday night at The Meadow- lands are included in a pair of guaranteed pools. Below is a look at the $50,000 promised Pick 5 (race 1) and my ticket along with a Pick 4 (race 6) ticket for that $50,000 pool. Click here to watch my Pick 4 video with Matt Rose. Race 1: Non-winners 4 races or $55K life - $50K GTD Pick 5

(3) BUY IN bested older foes last time at Philly for co-owner Tim Tetrick. He figures to be forwardly placed in this race and should have a big shot. (5) CLAYTONS BETTOR N is involved

Fotowon every week but can’t get over the hump. (8) PUT TO RIGHT didn’t No Lou Zing set a lifetime mark of 1:49 1/5 while winning the fire home as strongly as I expected last time but I’m willing to Progress Pace elimination on Wednesday at Dover Downs. give him another shot. (2) CALIBER hasn’t been seen in seven weeks but did show big speed at times. Let’s see what new trainer Williams Hernandez can get out of this recent $60,000 purchase. By Derick Giwner Race 2: $320,000 TVG Open Trot Final The field for the final 3-year-old stake for pacing colts and geldings took shape on Wednesday (11/18) at Dover Downs when 10 horses (3) CRYSTAL FASHION gave Gimpanzee a scare in the Breed- lined up for the $35,000 Progress Pace elimination. ers Crown and just missed behind Atlanta in his previous start. Cattlewash and No Lou Zing were quickest off the gate, with the Five-year-old should have every chance to control this race in former posting a 26 4/5 opening quarter before the latter would brush this short field. (1) ATLANTA is the most dangerous trotter in to the lead past that call. No Lou Zing, who suffered a head defeat to North America off a helmet and she should be sitting second (at Cattlewash from off the pace in last week’s Matron over the same worst third) here with a clear chance in the lane. surface, set fractions of 55 2/5 and 1:22 1/5 while facing pressure from a first-over Tattoo Artist. Race 3: $451,800 Goldsmith Maid After shrugging off his mid-race foe, driver Dexter Dunn asked No Lou Zing for a bit more at the head of the stretch and he easily held off (2) FLAWLESS COUNTRY missed the Breeders Crown due to Cattlewash to win by a half-length in a new lifetime best of 1:49 1/5. sickness and hasn’t raced in six weeks. That said, the Svanstedt “He’s the leading driver in the country and has confidence in my stable is great at getting horses ready off the bench and pick- horse, so why not control the race and your own destiny,” said trainer ing up McCarthy here is a huge plus. (1) ANOKA HANOVER Nancy Takter about the race tactics. has turned into an absolute killer and really impressed me in Catch The Fire sat third and angled late to get the show spot while the Kindergarten final; one to beat. (11) MAZZARATI has been Fortify took fourth after a second-over trip behind Tattoo Artist. The looming each week and deserves a big win if Tetrick can find a top eight in the field made the $325,000 final on November 25 at Dover. winning trip from the second tier. Always And Again and Indictable Hanover were eliminated after finishing ninth and tenth, respectively. Race 4: Governor’s Cup Consolation For No Lou Zing ($5.40 to win), a gelded son of Sweet Lou owned by 3 Brothers Stable, Rojan Stables and Caviart Farms, the victory was (2) SIMON SAYS HANOVER loomed in the Kindergarten and his seventh in 15 starts this year. His lifetime earnings (all made in lacked any fight. This is a better spot where he can settle in and 2020) jumped to $442,308 with the win. make one brush. (3) SHAKESPEARE has a tactical edge with Earlier on the card, Littlebagoftricks (1:55 4/5) and Hey Hey Dbay early speed and was much better last time after spitting the bit (1:57 2/5) took home a pair of $20,000 second-round elimination races two back. (4) BEACHHEAD took a shot and tired versus a good for 2-year-old pacing fillies in the Delaware Standardbred Breeders group last time after many months on the sidelines; could step Fund series. up. $325,000 progress pace final - nov. 25 - dover downs Race 5: $398,650 Valley Victory Post Horse Listed Driver drF M/L (4) ON A STREAK worked out a perfect trip in the Breeders 1 Captain Barbossa J.Bongiorno 8-1 Crown and now ships down to the States again to perhaps lock up 2 Manticore J.Stratton 20-1 divisional honors. He versatile and clearly the one to beat at what 3 Captain Kirk a.McCarthy 12-1 could be a reasonable price. (6) DEE’S RED DELICOUS scored for me at 6-1 in the Kindergarten final and is turning into one of my 4 Fortify T.Tetrick 8-1 favorite horses. If you can get 5-1 here, he’s worth trying. 5 Catch The Fire M.Wilder 8-1 6 tattoo Artist y.Gingras 12-1 .20 Pick 5 Ticket: 2,3,5,8 / 1,3 / 1,2,11 / 2,3,4 / 4,6 = $28.80 7 no Lou Zing d.Dunn 9-5 .50 Pick 4 Ticket: 1,3 / 1,3,9 / 4 / 2,3,4,7 = $12 8 Cattlewash d.Miller 2-1

DRF Harness Weekend | 7 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness New statistics on number of mares bred prove promising

if this new current trend continues, the future for the industry, from a standpoint of breeding and horse population, is much brighter than it at the track was five years ago. Where the mares are being bred is also an interesting observation. AtTheTrack7 By Darin Zoccali Until purses around the country were boosted by slot machine subsi- dies, New Jersey was at the forefront of standardbred breeding. In 2005, there were 920 registered horses that were New Jersey-sired On November 16, the United States Trotting Association released the that sold for a combined $23.8 million at the yearling sales that year. statistics pertaining to the number of mares bred in 2020. The news That represented 15.2% of the total yearlings sold and 25.9% of the total was certainly encouraging. As of the date of the report (November 12), sales of those yearlings. Fast forward to 2014 when New Jersey had 161 the numbers yielded an increase of 6.21 percent compared to that same yearlings sell for $7.1 million, which equated to 4.1% of the yearlings date in 2019. sold and 8.4% of the total sales. Compare that to Ohio and Indiana and The report further states that “the expectation is that the reports on the results are staggering. In 2005, Indiana and Ohio combined had 940 the numbers of mares bred will increase during the final two months yearlings sell for $4.7 million. In 2020, through this past week, there are of the year. Based upon previous years, it is estimated that the reported over 5,300 mares that have been bred in Ohio and Indiana. number of mares bred will increase by 1,500 by the end of 2020.” If that proves to be accurate, the number of mares bred in 2020 would be in the neighborhood of 16,500 mares, considering that 2019 saw a NUMBER OF U.S. MARES BRED total of 14,997 mares bred. When comparing the potential figure of 16,500 mares in 2020 to just 2015 12,811 five years ago, the increase is not insignificant. In fact, there will be nearly 30 percent more mares bred in 2020 than in 2015 (12,811 mares). 2016 13,390 These figures and projections indicate a noticeable turnaround from the outlook of standardbred breeding a few years ago. In 2004, there 2017 14,316 were 14,915 standardbred foals born. While the industry is still a long way removed from that figure, there is cause for optimism. In 2014 we 2018 14,980 hit a low of 7,518 standardbred foals born. That could have been the beginning of the end. 2019 14,997 Had that decreasing numbers trend continued over the next five years, there would have been fewer and fewer horses to compete at the harness racetracks. Tracks wouldn’t have been able to fill cards and we likely would have been heading for a contraction of the industry. It will be interesting to see where the industry goes from here. Thankfully, the breeding industry has taken a step up the ladder each While breeders are more optimistic about the prospects of New year since 2014, climbing to 7,952 in 2015, 8,274 in 2016, 8,844 in 2017, and Jersey racing for the long-term, that optimism is not at the same level dropping slightly to 8,714 in 2018 due to a reduced percentage of foals as places like Ohio and Indiana and the numbers tell us that. New being born despite an increase in mares bred. Jersey has 16 stallions this year. Albeit from a small crop, Bettor’s New life has been breathed into the industry, literally. While there Wish will be the biggest name on the pacing side from 2020 and names is no guarantee as to how many of the mares that have been bred will like Walner, Six Pack and Tactical Landing lend hope for the trotting result in a horse that makes it to the track, if you increase the number future. But the state is still rebuilding. of mares bred, you increase the number of horses racing. New York is not in the same place it was 10 years ago, either. In How bad was it? Well if the trend that existed from 2002-2014 contin- 2010 there were nearly 70 registered stallions in New York. American ued until today, by the year 2022, there may have been less than 6,000 Ideal was just getting started. Art Major and Credit Winner carried a standardbred foals born. $15,000 stud fee. Bettor’s Delight was in his prime. In 2020, there are It is important to remember that the vast majority of races contested less than 40 stallions in the state, about 30% of which are listed as in harness racing are overnight races. They are what make the indus- private stallions. Bettor’s Delight is gone to Canada. Chapter Seven is try go. These races are comprised, typically, with horses that are at the new kid on the block and all the rage, but the overall list of stal- least 4 years old and there is a significant impact to the population of lions is lacking depth. overnight races based on how many 5, 6, 7 and even 8-year-old horses In the immediate future, it appears as though the Midwest is the are available to race. In fact, it is not uncommon to see horses older land of the standardbred. The industry will be reliant on Ohio and than that competing in overnight events. Indiana to continue to build upon the foundation that has been put In 2015, there were approximately 12,000 horses between the ages of in place. Hopefully, over time, that success leaks into places like New 4 and 12 competing in overnight events at harness tracks in the United York and New Jersey and the industry becomes well-balanced in States. Based on the number of foals being born and the declining terms of its breeding, leading to an abundance of horses and quality trend, there were expected to be approximately 8,300 horses in that age racing everywhere. But before we get there, we are still on the first group competing in 2020. By 2024, there could have been less than 7,000. steps and for the immediate future, things appear to be brighter. How did that happen? In 2004, there were 6,259 breeders of registered foals. In 2014, there were 2,845. Similarly, in 2004, there were 545 breeders that had five or more foals registered and 10 years later that number was cut in half to 275. When it came to breeders of at least 20 foals, that number went from 60 to 31. From 2004 to 2014, 30 percent of the top 25 breeding operations in North America were either out of the game, or on their way out. Keep in mind that the number of mares bred bottomed-out in 2015 at 12,811 and were declining each year leading up to that point. So, in 2020, there were fewer 4, 5 and 6-year-old horses racing that at any point in the industry’s modern history. So, in 2021, there will be fewer 5, 6 and 7-year-olds, in 2022, fewer 6, 7 and 8-year-olds, etc. Therefore, even though we are seeing an uptick in mares bred and foals born, the racing industry is still in the midst of an overall shortage of racehorses and that will likely remain the case for at least three more years. But

DRF Harness Weekend | 8 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness Takter duo of sophomores tackle older foes in TVG finals

By Ken Weingartner

Trainer Nancy Takter will watch trotting mare Manchego and pacing mare Kissin In The Sand compete for the final time Saturday at The Meadowlands, but also will get another look at two 3-year-olds that will attempt to follow in their award- winning stablemates’ hoof prints next season. Hambletonian Oaks winner Sorella will face five older foes in the $140,000 TVG Series championship for female trotters while 3-year-old filly Breeders Crown winner Peaky Sneaky will meet eight older rivals in the $150,000 TVG Series championship for female pacers. “They’re both coming back next year, and they’re both really sharp at the moment,” Takter said. “I think they both deserve a chance.” It is the second time 3-year- old fillies will take on mares in the TVG Series champion- Dean Gillette ships, which debuted in 2013. Peaky Sneaky snuck up the cones to win the Breeders Crown on October 31. Last year, Warrawee Ubeaut finished fourth in the Mare Pace final and Beautiful Sin was fourth in the Mare Trot. Peaky Sneaky won the Breeders Crown last month at Harrah’s Sorella’s foes in the Mare Trot include 5-year-old Plunge Blue Chip, Hoosier Park, where she handed Party Girl Hill her only loss of the a world-record-holder and multiple Grand Circuit winner, and 4-year- season. For the year, Peaky Sneaky has won six of 15 races, hit the old When Dovescry, who captured the 2019 Hambletonian Oaks and board 12 times, and earned $482,622. Her 1:48 win in a division of the Dan Patch Award for best 3-year-old filly trotter. She will not face Glen Garnsey makes her the third-fastest female pacer of the season, Manchego or Atlanta, who will both race in Saturday’s $320,000 TVG behind only Party Girl Hill and Kissin In The Sand. Open Trot final. “She’s tough and gritty,” Takter said. “I don’t think she knows any Peaky Sneaky’s rivals in the Mare Pace include 5-year-old Kissin In different if they’re aged mares or 3-year-olds.” The Sand as well as 7-year-old Shartin N, who was the 2019 Horse of In The Sand heads to the TVG final with a six-race win streak. Her the Year; 6-year-old Caviart Ally, who is the event’s defending cham- victories include the Breeders Crown, Dayton Distaff Derby, Milton pion, and 4-year-old Warrawee Ubeaut. Stakes, and Allerage Farms Mare Pace. For her career, she has won The four TVG Series championships are among eight Grand Circuit 26 of 57 races and $1.66 million. She was a Dan Patch Award winner stakes on Saturday’s Big M card, along with the Fall Four for 2-year- at 3. old pacers and trotters. Racing begins at 7:15 p.m. (EST). Manchego, coming off the third Breeders Crown title of her career, Sorella heads to the TVG Mare Trot off a win in last week’s Matron and 5-year-old mare Atlanta both take on the males in the TVG Open Stakes for 3-year-old filly trotters. She has won eight of 14 races this Trot. Manchego has won 32 of 55 lifetime races and $2.56 million. She season, hit the board a total of 12 times, and earned $713,049. In addi- was a Dan Patch Award winner at 2. tion to winning the Oaks, she won a division of the Casual Breeze In the TVG Open Pace championship, Bettor’s Wish will make his Stakes at Woodbine Mohawk Park in a Canadian-record 1:51 3/5 final career start against a field that includes Breeders Crown winner and the Reynolds Memorial in 1:50 2/5, which is tied for the season’s Century Farroh. second-fastest mile by a 3-year-old trotter. Four Breeders Crown winners also will be in action in the Fall “The only way I was putting Sorella in was if Manchego ended up Four: Lady Chaos in the $451,800 Goldsmith Maid for 2-year-old filly in the (TVG) Open,” Takter said. “I knew it was going to be a little trotters, On A Streak in the $398,650 Valley Victory for 2-year-old bit of a short field, and I think she belongs in there. I don’t think male trotters, Summa Cum Laude in the $371,900 Governor’s Cup for she gets enough credit for what she’s done this year. She’s raced 2-year-old male pacers, and Fire Start Hanover in the $323,600 Three from the first weekend of June all the way through November. She Diamonds for 2-year-old filly pacers. broke a Canadian record, she won the Oaks; she’s had a tremen- -courtesy USTA Communications dous year.”

DRF Harness Weekend | 9 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness involved. The most frustrating time was when I was pregnant and I wasn’t able to sit behind horses. You started training in your Did you ever want to know more about the people involved mid-30s. What in the harness industry? Editor Derick Giwner combs the were you doing harness landscape each week to profile a new personality from the sport. prior to that? I worked as a groom for a while. I was big into riding horses and I horse-showed a lot. I showed on the circuit in Florida, Saratoga, then I kind of broke into harness trainer sheena mcelhiney racing. My mom trains, my step-dad What kind of car do you drive? works with horses. Chevy 2500. Your mom is Favorite dinner meal? Snack? trainer Monique Cohen and Hibachi; Chips and Salsa. step-dad is Matt What is your favorite track to race at? Medeiros? Courtesy Sheena McElhiney Yonkers. You get to race against a good caliber of horses there Yes. They got Sheena McElhiney has posted a solid 70 wins since going out on her own and we’ve had some New York Sire Stakes horses that have together when I was as a trainer in 2018. seemed to do good there this year. about 15 years old, so I’ve been paddocking What is your favorite big event in racing? and grooming horses for 20 years or so. Then I went out on my own and things grew from there. Breeders Crown because you get to watch some of the best horses in the country. Your statistics have improved each year since you started How often is racing on your mind? training in 2018. Are you happy with what you’ve accomplished? 24/7. It is definitely a huge accomplishment. I’m excited to be grow- What is your favorite thing to do outside of racing? ing as a trainer and I definitely learn something new each day, especially having Leonidas, he has been a dream come true. I Spend time with my kids. I have two boys, 6 and 9. They are a didn’t imagine starting with my own horses in 2018 to be at this handful. They are at the age where they like to fight with each point right now. other non-stop. I’ve tried to get them going with helping in the barn and that seems to get them away from fighting. You won the $100K Potomac Pace on Nov. 15 with What is your favorite sport to watch? Leonidas at Rosecroft Raceway. Was that the biggest win of your career? Harness Racing, otherwise soccer. I used to play when I was younger. Definitely. I was shaking after the race. What is one thing about you most fans/bettors don’t know? Has it sunken in that you won yet? I went to college (Central Connecticut State University) for Not really. I got back to the barn at about 5AM, put him away teaching and got my degree. and tried to get some sleep. I will still thinking, ‘did that happen last night?’ What is one word that describes harness racing for you? Do you think a big win like that could jumpstart your Hard work or excitement. career to new heights? How did you get started in the sport? I hope so. Just seeing him race as well as he did, I just want to keep that going and focus on that. We’ve had horses my whole life. My family has always been involved in it in some aspect, whether it is riding or racing horses. Steve Finkelstein (Jesmeral Stable) owns Leonidas. How So it was in the blood before I was even a thought. did you hook up with him? Was there a chance you wouldn’t be involved in the sport? Steve sent us some horses a couple of years ago to see if we could Even when I went to college I still worked part-time with the racehorses. I worked a summer at Lindy Farm, so I was always CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

DRF Harness Weekend | 10 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 do anything with them at Yonkers and we improved them a little. So he sent us more and more. He’s a really great owner and he buys a good caliber of horses. Where is your home base and what tracks(s) do you consider to be your main ones? New Jersey at Big Z Training Center. Yonkers is probably my main track but I’m originally from New England and have been racing at Plainridge. Best Bet Photos Leonidas gave Sheena McElhiney the biggest win in her career when he won the $100,000 What is the best advice you’ve ever Potomac Pace at Rosecroft on November 15. gotten about harness racing? Not to get too down because there is always next week. How did COVID-19 affect your life and business? It was definitely tough. We weren’t racing and the kids weren’t in What was your favorite moment in harness racing? school, so it was stressful trying to work with the kids at home. Luckily I have a good owner and made it through until we started Sunday’s (11/15) win with Leonidas. I’m still trying to take it all in. to race again. Plainridge helped us out since it was one of the first Going into the Potomac did you think you had a chance prior tracks we started back at and we did well there. to the race versus such a good field? If you had the power to change one thing in the sport, what He warmed up so good that I thought we had a chance, but with the would it be? horses in there, like Bettor’s Wish and Harambe Deo, then I thought I just wish racing could be more like it used to be with fans at the if we just got a check I’d be happy. He trained well all week and he track and more interest in the sport. Interest seems to be drying up. warmed up great, so I had a good feeling going into it. The way that I want there to be a future for the sport, especially for my kids. My the race setup with a 25 1/5 first-quarter was perfect for him because oldest one goes out and jogs on his own now, so I just want to see it he is a closer. When I saw that, I felt we might have a chance. continue and be successful. Which is the best horse you’ve ever trained? How do you view the future of harness racing? Leonidas. With everything that has happened with COVID-19, I’m hoping it Which horse is/was your favorite? will continue but right now perhaps things seem a bit glum. I had a $5,000 claimer a couple of years ago named Fire N Diamonds Time for the stretch drive: that I loved. She was the sweetest horse and had the best personality. Best Horse You Ever Saw: Somebeachsomewhere at Yonkers in the Leonidas has a great personality, too. He’s a gentle giant. Messenger. I was young then and I remember thinking that I want a What’s the one race that you really want to win? horse like that. Best Race you ever saw: Sunday when Leonidas won because I Probably the Breeders Crown. Maybe next year we could be in that trained him. race or the TVG. Best Driver ever: John Campbell. Will Leonidas be staked to those races? Lasix – Yes or No?: Yes. I think that is the plan for next year if he continues going the way he is. Favorite TV Show?: Shark Tank, though I don’t like to admit it. How many horses do you have in the barn? Trotters or Pacers?: Pacers. 22. My mom has recently gotten into broodmares so we’ve been training some babies. We do it together. You can’t do it by yourself. This year we had one make it into the finals in New York - Rightfully Mine - and she was one of our homebreds, so that was exciting. This year we bred the mare to Huntsville, so it will be Massachusetts and Follow New York eligible. If you could choose any horse in history to train, which horse would it be and why? Captaintreacherous. He is such a beautiful horse. We have one of his babies right now and he looks awesome.

DRF Harness Weekend | 11 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness INDUSTRY NEWS Temporary post time change starts Nov. 21 at Northfield

MGM Northfield Park has announced a temporary change in post time to 4:20 PM for its live racing programs beginning Saturday, November 21. These programs are conducted every Sunday, Monday, At DRF Harness we strive to provide the best handicapping Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday. information in the sport. Each week we’ll use this space to bring The change in post time is needed to accommodate the state of you some of our handicappers’ best bets, value plays and horses to Ohio’s Department of Health’s recent order of a 21-day statewide watch. Use this information as one of your tools when wagering or curfew that businesses must close between 10PM and 5AM. simply click on the link above and head to DRF Bets to wager now. The curfew goes into effect on Thursday, November 19 and is set to expire Thursday, December 10. Post time will return to 6:00PM as Thursday, November 19 soon as possible. -edited release (Northfield) RACE 2

(4) LORD AND LEGEND Racing dates approved for Pennsylvania in 2021 worked out a nice trip last week on route to a fast win Pennsylvania’s three harness tracks have been approved for a total and he gets the call to repeat of 472 racing programs for 2021. The number is down slightly from off that sharp effort in his 2020, when the tracks were awarded 484 dates. first start over this track. READ MORE -Garnet Barnsdale Holiday driving tournament coming to Western Fair Friday, november 20 RACE 7 The Raceway at Western Fair District is teaming up with some of the province’s best drivers to spread added Christmas cheer this holi- (7) BANK SEA took back day season. The London oval will play host to the first ever Drivers’ off the gate on Saturday and Holiday Challenge in support of Toys for Tots on Sunday (Dec. 20). could never get involved. He Post time for the special program will be 4:45 p.m. (EST). did finish up in 26 1/5, and I READ MORE will look for a more aggressive approach tonight as he drops. SBOANJ meeting recap; NJ racing dates announced -Greg Reinhart RACE 3 On Monday (Nov. 16) Executive Administrator Al Ochsner hosted the Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey’s (5) SHINING JEWELS was annual meeting along with President Mark Ford and the board of a narrow second in both of directors. For the first time ever, the meeting was held virtually her starts to date for Lebo - online, and streamed live on Facebook. from on an earned lead and READ MORE in the breeze alike. It won’t take much more for the Iowa invader to convert. Marseille to join Diamond Creek Farm stallion family -James Witherite

Diamond Creek Farm and the owners of Marseille are excited to Saturday, November 21 jointly announce that he is the latest addition to the stallion roster at Diamond Creek Farm in 2021. RACE 8 READ MORE (4) SHARTIN blew out a huge 1:50 1/5 qualifier at Dayton live racing suspended through Thanksgiving Dover last week to prepare for this race. She had her issues Following a positive COVID-19 test emanating from racetrack in October but looks ready! operations and out of an abundance of caution, Hollywood Gaming -Derick Giwner at Dayton Raceway has suspended its live racing cards through at least Thursday, November 26, 2020. Simulcast wagering and gaming operations remain open. full card analysis / past performances -release (Dayton) Meadowlands (FRI) Analysis Harrah’s Philly (FRI) Analysis

Ohio fair awards going virtual Mohawk Park (FRI) Analysis Mohawk Park (SAT) Analysis

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic the Ohio Fair Racing Conference will Yonkers (FRI) Analysis Meadowlands (SAT) Analysis not hold an annual banquet but will instead present its 2020 awards via a virtual awards show. The show is scheduled to premiere on the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association YouTube Channel Saturday DHP PPs harness eye PPs trackmaster PPs free PPs November 21st at 7:00PM. -edited release (OHHA) Want full-card analysis? Visit DRF.com/harness

DRF Harness Weekend | 12 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness NEWS FROM AROUND THE HARNESS INDUSTRY

Updated protocols for attending live racing at Mohawk It should be noted the Board of Directors of the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame has reduced the number of Inductees to be recog- With Halton Region currently in the red “control” zone, Woodbine nized in 2021 to three per breed, instead of the usual five for Standard- Entertainment has released updated protocols for owners attending breds and five for Thoroughbreds. This decision was reached as a the races at Woodbine Mohawk Park. result of COVID-19 restrictions in 2020 and the CHRHF’s desire to fully Starting Thursday (November 19), Woodbine will permit one recognize the Class of 2020 as similarly as possible to those inducted owner, plus one guest, access to the Woodbine Mohawk Park apron in previous years. It is hoped that both the ten individuals previously for only the race their horse is competing in. The owner and guest will announced as the Class of 2020, as well as the six individuals to be not be allowed entry to the Grandstand until 10 minutes prior to the inducted as part of the Class of 2021 will be fully recognized during race and must exit five minutes after the race. If an owner has another 2021, with further announcements to be made in the coming months. horse racing that evening, the owner and guest must return to their All eligible submissions received will be carefully considered by vehicles until 10 minutes prior to their next race. the Nominating Committee of the corresponding breed. Each breed’s Access to the apron will be gained through the employee entrance Nominating Committee will determine the three categories to be (located on the West End beside the Paddock). At the point of entry, recognized in 2021 before determining, by vote, the top three nominees each owner shall present their AGCO Licence and undergo screening in each of the three selected categories, to create the ballot of finalists and a temperature check. Physical distancing must be practiced at forwarded to the Election Committee for final voting by secret ballot. all times. When exiting, owners shall exit through the front doors of For further information, please contact: Linda Rainey, Managing the grandstand. Access to the grandstand is only for the purpose of Director Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame, P: (416) 417-9404 traveling to the apron and exiting. -release (Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame) Owners must sign-up online prior to attending their race. The sign-up forms for the next four days of racing are listed below. Thursday, November 19, 2020, Friday, November 20, 2020 Woodbine adds three to Board of Directors Saturday, November 21, 2020, Monday, November 23, 2020 -release (Woodbine) Woodbine Entertainment (Woodbine) announced today the appointment of Mr. Michael Lay, Mr. Mark Saunders and Ms. Ann Straatman to its Board of Directors. Pacing For The Cure announces its first-ever virtual 5K “Woodbine is proud to announce the appointment of three new members to our Board of Directors,” said Christine Magee, Chair, There is still time to join Pacing For The Cure’s First ever virtual Woodbine Entertainment Board of Directors. “The Board is excited to 5K which will run through the end of November. work with such outstanding leaders to help fulfil Woodbine’s mission The proceeds from the 5K will help with the organization’s quest to to grow the sport of horse racing in Ontario while making a positive help find a cure for multiple sclerosis. impact on the communities that we operate in.” Entrants can run, walk, ride or pace anytime during the month to Mr. Michael Lay is a Managing Partner and Co-Head of ONCAP, be eligible. A 5K is equal to approximately 3.1 miles. the middle market private equity platform of Onex, who invests and The cost to enter is a $25 donation to Pacing For The Cure. Each manages capital on behalf of shareholders, institutional investors and entry will receive a stylish PFTC gaitor. high net worth clients from around the world. Prior to joining ONCAP in Sign up now using this link. 2000, Mr. Lay was Head of the Private Equity Group at Ontario Teachers’ Don’t miss out on the Facebook contest currently happening where Pension Plan. Additionally, Mr. Lay is an experienced Board member entrants can post pictures of their virtual 5K and be entered to win a having served on numerous corporate and not for profit Boards. $50 Visa Gift Card! Check out the pinned post at the top of the Pacing “As Woodbine continues to unlock the value of the lands that For The Cure page for more details. surrounds our racetracks, Michael’s leadership experience will -release (Pacing For The Cure) greatly benefit our efforts as we continue to take the prudent steps on our pathway towards self-sustainability,” said Jim Lawson, CEO, Woodbine Entertainment. Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame Mr. Saunders is a retired police officer and most recently, the Chief now accepting nominations for Class of 2021 of Police for the Toronto Police Service. As Chief of Police, Mr. Saun- ders successfully led the largest municipal Police Service in Canada and fourth largest in North America, helping to keep Toronto safe. The Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame (CHRHF) invites the As Deputy Chief, Mr. Saunders created and operationalized the “C3” public to participate in the nomination of people and horses who have Unit, a unit whose mandate is to investigate cybercrime and provide made a significant contribution to Canadian Standardbred or Thor- technology based investigative support throughout the Service. oughbred horse racing, for induction to the Canadian Horse Racing “Mark ’s passion for creating safe, inclusive spaces, along with his Hall of Fame in 2021. leadership and community engagement expertise will help Wood- Nominations are requested in the following categories: bine continue to be an active, responsible and valued member of the • PERSON: Trainers, Drivers, Jockeys communities in which we operate,” commented Lawson. • BUILDER: Includes, but not limited to Breeders, Owners, Offi- Ms. Ann Straatman is one of the most prominent people involved cials, and others. in Canadian standardbred racing. As Reproduction Manager at • COMMUNICATOR: Includes, but not limited to Writers, Broad- Seelster Farms, the largest Standardbred breeding farm in Canada, casters, Photographers, Announcers, Bloggers Ms. Straatman uses her 25 years of industry experience to skillfully • VETERAN PERSON & VETERAN HORSE Trainers, Drivers, guide the highly successful operation including directly overseeing Jockeys or Horses whose careers have been concluded for at least 21 stallion acquisition, syndication and management; mare reproduc- years, but less than 50 years. tive management, mare contracts and client liaison. Additionally, she • MALE HORSE: Stallions or geldings whose contribution to Cana- is the current Sales Manager of London Selected Yearling Sale and dian racing occurred in the past 20 years. President of Forest City Standardbred Sales Inc. since 2006. • FEMALE HORSE: Mares whose contribution to Canadian racing “Few people contribute to the horse racing industry to the degree occurred in the past 20 years. that Ann does,” said Lawson. “Having her broad expertise on our Complete eligibility criteria may be found here. Board of Directors will greatly benefit our organization by having All nomination submissions to be made using the form provided on another industry leader offer her expertise and experience to our the CHRHF website available here. A copy of the form is also attached, strategic planning and decisions.” or may be obtained by contacting [email protected]. -edited release (Woodbine)

DRF Harness Weekend | 13 | November 19, 2020 Visit us online at drf.com/harness