For comments or story ideas, contact Daina Kazmaier at dkazmaier@rosecroft.com
 

SOPHOMORES BATTLE IN MDSS FINALS
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (6-28-2008) – Divisions of the Maryland Sire Stakes finals, each worth a purse of $40,000, were contested at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday evening and the competition was exhilarating. Both trotters and pacers headed to the gate in what proved to be some of the best racing of the year at the Maryland oval.
   Ornellix [$10.00, $5.40, $2.80] trotted her way to a two-and-three-quarter length victory over a field of nine sophomore fillies in the third race. The daughter of Tejano out of Flora Springs, driven off of the gate by Wayne Long, sat in fourth through early quarters of 28.4 and 59.1. Wayne made a move with the filly before the three-quarter pole, tipping out first-over in 1:28.4. Ornellix, trained by Gary Cameron II for owner Russell Williams, closed in 30.0 for the win in 1:58.4. Xiao Jing [$3.40, $4.00] finished second after following Ornellix through her trip up the outside. With Sam Belote III at her lines, the Presto Hanover filly trotted a strong mile for owner-trainer Basil Sapienza. Flamenco Dancer [$6.20], after holding a short lead in the middle of the mile, faded back to third with trainer Betsy Brown at her lines. The Tejano filly is co-owned by Brown and Ursula Ayd.
   Bill Long was in the sulky in the fifth race, an event for colt and gelding trotters, with Concertino [$9.40, $2.60, $3.00]. The Tejano colt out of Concert Goer, trained by Long, quarter-poled for the lead after an opening tick of 29.4. Concertino led the field through remaining fractions of 1:00.1 and 1:28.4 to win by over three lengths in 1:59.3. Howard Hammond owns the colt. Erio Hanover [$4.80, $3.20], a Tejano colt that battled for the lead with Concertino, finished second at 9/1 odds. Trained by Joe Offutt for owner Genevieve Louk, Erio Hanover was rated well by driver Chris Offutt during the mile. Misterio [$2.40], the betting choice, finished third after a first-over attempt. Frank Milby drove for trainer Bib Roberts and owner Graham Grace Stables LLC.
   Southern Blue [$2.10, $2.10] kept her near-perfect record in the division for pacing fillies, extending her win streak to four. Driver Brandon Givens took the filly to the lead from post three and held her steady with quarters of 28.2, 58.1 and 1:25.4. Southern Blue, a daughter of Nuclear High out of KY Romance, stopped the timer in 1:54.1. Gerald Kelly owns and trains the filly. Warden Woodie [$3.40] finished second with a trip along the rail for driver John Wagner. The Allie’s Western filly, trained by Manley Brown Jr. for owner Frederick Kessell, made up lengths in the stretch with a 28.0 final quarter.  Indeman, a long shot at 22/1 odds by post time, crossed under the wire third with Corey Callahan at her lines. The daughter of Masterman, trained by Shaun Callahan for owner Nick, scored a pocket trip through much of the mile.
   The ninth race, dubbed the Wayne Smullin Memorial pace, brought Quick Thinker [$3.20, $2.40] and driver Brandon Givens to the winner’s circle. The Glowing Tribute – Hera Hanover colt, owned by Jim Morand and Nanticoke Racing Inc., left the gate from post position seven only to be parked out through a swift opening fraction of 27.0. Quick Thinker, a trainee of Les Givens, battled his way to the lead and set middle fractions of 56.0 and 1:25.0. The colt drew away by over three lengths in the stretch to win in 1:53.2 with a final quarter of 28.0. Finishing second was CJ Striker [$5.80]; Frank Milby drove the Allie’s Western colt from post two and the pair closed in 27.4. Don Milby trains for owner Charles Johnson. Boss Outlaw hit the board in third with Donnie Russell in the bike. Owned and trained by Jim Coughlin, the JK Outlaw colt was game throughout the race.
   Live harness racing action will resume on Friday, November 7, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. Rosecroft Raceway will remain open seven days a week for simulcasting.
 

MAGIC SWAN SCORES PERFECT TRIP TO WIN ROSECROFT OPEN
MDSS FINALS ON TAP TONIGHT
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (6-28-2008) -- Magic Swan [$7.40, $3.60, $2.20] sat in the pocket to win the $6,000 Open Trot at Rosecroft Raceway on Friday evening, taking the mile by a neck in 1:58.0. Driven by Victor Kirby, the six-year-old Enjoy Lavec gelding followed Keigan (John Wagner) through quarters of 29.2, 1:00.0 and 1:29.2 in a perfectly rated mile. Kirby urged the horse on in the stretch, and the pair closed in 28.2 for the victory. Jeff Long trains and co-owns Magic Swan with James Harris and J Long.
Keigan [$4.80, $4.60], a six-year-old March Seventh horse, held on for second. Trained by Manley Brown Jr. for owner Wagner, the horse was strong off of the gate from post five to take the immediate lead. Third in the $115.20 trifecta were Mountain Breez [$4.60] and driver Chris Offutt. The six-year-old SJ’s Photo mare made up ground and came from sixth to hit the board. Joe Offutt trains for owner Anne McDonald.
    Four divisions of the Maryland Sire Stakes finals for three-year-olds, each worth a purse of $40,000, are set for the Saturday evening card at Rosecroft Raceway. Contenders include Jane B, a trotting filly marked at 5/2 morning line odds; Misterio, a trotting colt at 5/2 early odds; Southern Blue (3/5), a talented pacing filly that won her last three starts, and both Quick Thinker (6/5) and Boss Outlaw (8/5) - pacing colts at the top of their game.
   Live racing begins at 6:30 p.m. tonight, and festivities are planned throughout the evening. Happy hour specials will run from 5:30 - 8:00 and live entertainment by Virginia Coalition will be featured. Prize drawings for cash vouchers, Redskins tickets and more will be held. Fans will be able to register to win $1,000 in cash; the drawing will be held on November 7th, and entrants must be present to win. Contact Rosecroft directly for more details at 410-567-4000.
 

FAVORITES TAKE CONTROL IN MDSS 
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (6-21-2008) – The betting favorites dominated preliminary divisions of the Maryland Sire Stakes at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday evening, as talented three-year-old pacers took to the track to vie for purses of $4,000.
   In the first event for colts and geldings, Boss Outlaw [$2.20, $2.10] paced gate-to-wire in 1:53.1 with Donnie Russell at his lines. The JK Outlaw colt, owned and trained by James Coughlin, led the field through fractions of 27.2, 56.3 and 1:25.1 to win by three-quarters of a length. Bulldoggin [$3.00] finished second with Corey Callahan at his lines; the Nuclear High colt sat in the pocket through the mile to hit the board. Shaun Callahan trains for owner Nick Callahan. Higher Mark finished third in the trifecta, as driver Frank Milby urged the Nuclear High colt home with a 27.4 last quarter. Roger Hans trains for owner Tom Cooke.
   Southern Blue [$3.20, $2.10] was unbeaten in the division for fillies, winning by over four lengths in 1:54.2. Driven by Brandon Givens for owner-trainer Gerald Kelly, the Nuclear High filly set the pace with fractions of 27.4, 57.0 and 1:25.4. Second under the wire was Winsmith Brianna [$8.40], a Brian Callahan trained daughter of Masterman. The filly came from over nine lengths off of the pace with a strong finish for owner Scott Woogen. Warden Woodie was third with Donnie Russell in the bike. The Allie’s Western filly made up ground late in the mile along the rail. Manley Brown Jr. trains for owner Frederick Kessell.
   Finally, Quick Thinker [$2.10, $2.10] showed his class in the second event for colts and geldings by winning in 1:53.3. Pacing on the front end through quarters of 28.2, 58.0 and 1:25.3 with Brandon Givens at his lines, the Glowing Tribute colt won by over eight lengths. Les Givens trains for Jim Morand and Nanticoke Racing Inc. CJ Striker [$3.20] scored a pocket trip for second under the guidance of Frank Milby at 11/1 odds. The Allie’s Western colt, trained by Don Milby for owner Charles Johnson, stayed strong through the mile. Best Cross held his own to the wire with a last quarter of 28.0 for driver Wayne Long. The Nuclear High colt is trained by Roger Hans for owner Tom Cooke.
 

ERIO HANOVER UPSETS IN MARYLAND SIRE STAKES
SOPHOMORE PACERS TO BE SHOWCASED IN MDSS
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (6-21-2008) – Off at 16/1 odds by post time, Erio Hanover [$35.40, $10.20, $5.20] earned an easy win in a preliminary division of the Maryland Sire Stakes for three-year-old trotting colts and geldings at Rosecroft Raceway on Friday. The Tejano Colt, owned by Genevieve Louk, left the gate to sit parked in second through an opening quarter of 29.3. Driver Chris Offutt dropped the horse in the pocket to follow Misterio (Frank Milby) through remaining fractions of 1:00.4 and 1:31.3. Erio Hanover ended up winning by three-quarters of a length in 2:02.1. Red Oak’s Rainbow [$97.40, $16.40], a Go Get Lost gelding, driven by Wayne Long for trainer Stacey Marston and owner Lawrence Marston, finished second after making up nearly seven lengths through the back half of the mile. Concertino [$2.20], the betting choice, was third. The Tejano colt, owned by Howard Hammond, is driven and trained by Bill Long. Misterio [$2.10] finished in a dead heat for third for the Graham Grace Stables LLC.
   In the division for fillies, Jane B [$3.40, $4.80, $2.80] was unstoppable, trotting gate-to-wire in fractions of 30.3, 1:02.0 and 1:32.1 to win in 2:03.2. John Wagner drove the Tejano filly for trainer Manley Brown Jr. and owner Scott Woogen.
   The second division for colts and geldings brought Ornellix [$6.40, $4.80, $4.00] to the winner’s circle in 2:02.2. Guided through the mile by driver Wayne Long, the Tejano colt trotted first-over early in the mile to grab the lead in the stretch with a 29.4 last quarter. Gary Cameron II trains for owner Russell Williams.
   Three-year-old pacers are scheduled to race on Saturday evening in preliminary divisions of the Maryland Sire Stakes, each worth a purse of $4,000.
   Boss Outlaw is the obvious choice in a division for colts and geldings; the JK Outlaw colt will open on the board at 1/5 odds from post two. Finishing third at Chester Downs in his last start, Boss Outlaw paced in 1:52.4. Owned and trained by James Coughlin, the colt has a mark of 1:51.4 set at Colonial Downs last year. Donnie Russell will be in the sulky for the mile. Dream Sunrise (Roger Plante Jr., 15/1), Higher Mark (Frank Milby, 5/1), Coppertop (Wayne Long, 12/1 and Bulldoggin (Corey Callahan, 8/1) will also face the starter.
   Southern Blue headlines the division for fillies at 4/5 early odds from post five. The daughter of Nuclear High, owned and trained by Gerald Kelly, won her last two starts with sharp efforts. Last time out, Southern Blue set a lifetime mark of 1:53.1. Brandon Givens will be aboard for the drive. From the rail out, the field also includes Warden Woodie (Donnie Russell, 8/1), Jacqui’s Jewells (Manley Brown, Jr., 8/1), Taylorswayornoway (Clif Green, 5/1), Simply Naked (Roger Plante, Jr., 8/1), Winsmith Brianna (Frank Milby, 8/1) and Indeman (Corey Callahan, 5/1).
   The second division for colts and gelding brings Quick Thinker to the front at 1/9 morning line odds. The Glowing Tribute colt, owned by Jim Morand and Nanticoke Racing Inc., was third last time out in 1:51.0 with a final quarter of 27.0. Two starts back, the colt paced in 1:50.4 with a final tick of 26.4. Brandon Givens will drive for trainer Les Givens. Misquoted (Roger Plante, Jr., 15/1), CJ Striker (Frank Milby, 6/1), Best Cross (Wayne Long, 8/1) and GB’s Li’l Misfit (Donnie Russell, 20/1) round out the field.
   Post time for Saturday’s card is 6:30 p.m.
 

“PAN” WINS BY A HEAD AT ROSECROFT
WAYNE LONG WINS FIVE
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (6-15-2008) – The Fraternity Pan  [$4.20, $2.40, $2.10] turned on the speed in the stretch to win a featured Winner’s Over pace at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday, beating the field by a head in 1:55.2. Driven by Brian Burton, the nine-year-old Artsplace horse sat in third through an opening quarter of 27.4. Burton tipped the horse out first-over to pass the half in 58.3 and the three-quarter pole in 1:26.2. Trained by Ken Schlotzhauer for owner Kelley Rogers, The Fraternity Pan gained the lead in the stretch with a 29.0 last quarter. Imperious [$4.60, $3.00] made up ground along the rail with Wayne Long at his lines; the six-year-old Glowing Tribute gelding sped home with a final tick of 28.4. Roger Hans trains for owner Tom Cooke. Third in the $21.60 trifecta were Really Ready [$2.10] and driver Donnie Russell. At 2/1 odds by post time, the eight-year-old Real Artist gelding cut the early portion of the mile only to fade slightly in the stretch. DW Camac trains for owner James Lunn.
   Driver Wayne Long scored victories in five of 11 races on Saturday, dominating the card. Dancing Up A Storm sat in the pocket to win the fourth race; the seven-year-old Village Jekyll gelding took the mile by a head in 1:57.0 for owner-trainer Jackie Roe. In the fifth race, Moonlitebillandbob paced second-over to win in 1:55.1 with a final quarter of 28.3. Long trains-and owns the seven-year-old Gothic Dream horse.
Johnny Absolut won by a nose in race six at 22/1 odds; the sophomore Nuclear High colt paced to an impressive victory in 1:59.0. Long was back in the eighth race with Albany Spur, a six-year-old Kentucky Spur gelding trained by Dale Cooke and owned by Constance Moore. The gelding paced first-over to win by three lengths in 1:57.2. In the tenth, Fuzzy Sylberun paced wire-to-wire in 1:57.1, winning for Brian Callahan and the Love Of My Life Stable.
   Live racing returns next Friday, June 20th at 6:30 p.m.
 

DONE DREAMEN SCORES AT ROSECROFT
WAGNER WINS 5 OF 10 ON FRIDAY
THE FRATERNITY PAN, REALLY READY TO FACE OFF ON SATURDAY
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (6-14-2008) – Done Dreamen [$13.40, $8.00 $3.60] sat in the pocket to win a featured trot at Rosecroft Raceway on Friday, scoring a minor upset with trainer Bib Roberts in the sulky.
Sitting behind leader Mi’s Arlene (Timmy Offutt) through well-rated quarters of 29.1, 59.2 and 1:29.3, the five-year-old Donerail gelding closed well in the stretch to win by a length-and-a-quarter in 1:59.2. Roberts co-owns Done Dreamen with Edward Nelson and William Conn. Mi’s Arlene [$10.20, $8.40] managed to hold on for second after showing strong gate speed early in the mile. Jasper Venters owns and trains the 10-year-old Loge mare. Ottawa Valley [$5.40] finished third in the $460.00 trifecta. Driven by Wayne Long for trainer Joyce Lineweaver, the four-year-old Incredible Abe gelding shows promising miles, hitting the board each of his last four starts. Lineweaver and Long co-own Ottawa Valley.
   Driver John Wagner took half of the card on Friday; his first victory was in race three with GB’s Li’l Misfit [$8.40, $2.20, $2.10]. The three-year-old Misfit gelding paced gate-to-wire in 1:57.1. In the fifth race, Miss Broadway [$4.40, $2.60, $3.00] trotted to a 2:04.2 victory; the sophomore Broadway Hall filly grabbed the lead off of the gate from post six to overcome the field as the betting favorite. Holy Water [$4.60, $2.20, $2.40] was perfect in the seventh race; the three-year-old Like A Prayer filly held the top to win by over a length in 1:57.4. The eighth race brought Pretty May Flowers [$3.80, $2.60, $2.20], a three-year-old Lindy Lane filly, to the winner’s circle after a win in 1:58.1. Wagner scored the natural hat trick, taking the ninth race with Major Trap, a three-year-old Art Major filly. The pacer came first-over after the half to win by three-and-a-quarter lengths in 1:57.0.
   The featured Winner’s Over pace brings both The Fraternity Pan (8/5) and Really Ready (9/5) to the gate in what may prove to be a showdown. The Fraternity Pan last raced on June 7th at Rosecroft, finishing third to Really Ready in the same class. Trained by Ken Schlotzhauer, the nine-year-old Artsplace horse has earned over $370,000 lifetime and has a mark of 1:50.2.  Brian Burton will drive for owner Kelley Rogers. Really Ready, a winner last time out by over five lengths in 1:52.0, is promising as well against this field. The eight-year-old Real Artist gelding, trained by DW Camac for owner James Lunn Jr., has shown improvement over the past few months. Donnie Russell will be aboard for the drive from post three. Imperious (Wayne Long, 4/1), Coit Hanover (Manley Brown, Jr., 6/1) and Wholeftthegateopen (Chris Offutt, 6/1) complete the field.
   Post time for Saturday’s 11-race card is 6:30 p.m.
 

FRANK MILBY EARNS 1,000TH DRIVING WIN
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD – Frank Milby, 29, hit a career milestone in early June, scoring his 1,000th driving win. Professionally in the sulky since around 1998, Milby earned this notable win at Harrington Raceway on June 4th with Bengali, a Lindy Lane gelding.
   Milby’s best season to date was in 2007 with 227 wins and over $1.1 million in earnings. A native of Easton, Maryland, Milby plans to spend the summer driving at Ocean Downs and surrounding tracks.
   No stranger to the sport, Milby has been involved since he can remember. “I think growing up around it has really inspired me, my family’s been doing this since I believe the 60’s… I was a little lazy [picking up catch drives] when I started out, but started doing it more in the past couple years.” “My favorite horse has to be Pilgrim’s Fiery – I got to drive him from when he was 10 to age 14 when he retired,” Milby continued. “I won his 100th race at Rosecroft in 2003 and I got to drive him the night he won over $1 million lifetime.”
   “I want to keep working my way into Delaware, maybe become part of the top five in the driving colony, it would be a good goal to have over here,” Milby said when asked about his future goals. “I appreciate all the trainers that put me up and I can’t wait for early July to get here so I can be at Ocean Downs full time and relax.”
 

LOCAL HORSEWOMAN PARTICIPATES IN SCHOOL CAREER DAYS
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

   FT. WASHINGTON, MD – Horsewoman Betsy Brown recently participated in Career Days held at the J. Frank Dent Elementary School in Fort Washington, MD and the Overlook Elementary School in Temple Hills, MD, sharing the equine experience with local students. Brown brought the action right to the children, bringing a horse to the school so students could get a first-hand encounter of the animal and the profession. Storm Mist, a seven-year-old mare, was a good sport, showing patience with students – many of whom had not seen a horse up close before. “She loves the attention,” Betsy said of Storm Mist. “She loves to be petted and is great around people.”
   The visit to Career Day at the J. Frank Dent Elementary School, themed “Stepping into a Brighter Future” allowed students to gain an understanding of what it takes to make a living training and driving horses. Brown also traveled with the horse to the Overlook Elementary School Career Day called “From Dreams to Reality”. “ They were crazy over it,“ remarked Betsy when asked about her experience with the students. “A lot of them have never seen a horse, let alone touched one – they were so excited! The USTA supplied me with coloring books to hand out to everyone and they were a huge hit. It was so generous of them [USTA] to do that for us.” 
   Brown, stabled at Rosecroft Raceway, has been a licensed trainer since 1991 with nearly $2.5 million earned as well as an accomplished driver since 1979 and an avid owner. Her last parimutuel driving start was on June 6th in a non-winners of two with Fedex Alert, a four-year-old trotter by Tagliabue.
 

SHEER BRILLIANCE LOWERS RECORD AGAIN AT ROSECROFT
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (6-7-2008) – After pacing in 1:50.4 last week to set a new seasonal national record for three-year-old geldings on a 5/8 mile track, Sheer Brilliance [$4.40, $2.80, $2.10] outdid himself with a mile in 1:50.3 this week, winning a $22,700 division of the Maryland Standardbred Race Fund at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday. Driven by Victor Kirby from post three, the Blissfull Hall gelding sped off of the gate to lead the field through quarters of 26.3, 55.3 and 1:23.4, winning by a neck with a last quarter of 26.4. Trained by Jeff Long, Sheer Brilliance upped his lifetime earnings to over $66,000 with this win. Long co-owns the gelding with J Paul Long. Where’s Tucker [$3.20, $2.80] turned in a game effort for second, closing in 26.2 for a mile in 1:50.3. Roger Plante Jr. drove for trainer Steve LeBlanc from post six, and the pacer showed early gate speed to hit the board. Quick Thinker [$3.00] finished third with Brandon Givens in the bike to round out the $31.40 trifecta.
   Southern Blue [$5.20, $2.60, $2.10] won an $11,800 division for fillies by four lengths. Making a quarter pole move for the lead after an opening fraction of 26.2, the daughter of Nuclear High paced through remaining quarters of 55.4 and 1:24.2 to win in 1:53.1. Gerald Kelly trains and owns the filly. Snatch The Fortune [$3.00, $2.10], the betting choice, finished second with Corey Callahan at her lines, while Herthie D [$2.60], driven by Eddie Dennis, was third as the longest shot on the board at 14/1 odds by post time. The triple paid $21.20.
   In the second $11,800 division for fillies, Ashleys Lucky Day [$13.80, $5.40, $3.80] won by just over a length in 1:52.4. Driven by Eddie Davis Jr., the Badlands Hanover filly sat in the pocket through the mile and closed with a 28.4 last quarter. Janet Davis trains for owners Samuel Jacobs and Ronald Reed.
Talk All Day [$3.60, $2.10], driven by David Wade, finished second after cutting most of the mile, while Timeless Artist [$2.10] was third with Corey Callahan in the bike. The trifecta returned $71.80.
 

JON WIN IS UNSTOPPABLE IN MSRF
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (6-7-2008) – Jon Win [$2.10, $2.10, $2.10] trotted wire to wire in 1:57.1, winning a $10,200 division of the Maryland Standardbred Race Fund for three-year-old colts and geldings at Rosecroft Raceway on Friday. Driven by Victor Kirby, the Chip Chip Hooray gelding sped off of the gate to take the field through quarters of 30.0, 59.2 and 1:28.2, winning by over two lengths with a last quarter of 28.4. Jeff Long trains for owner Charlene Long. 
   Juanita [$2.10, $2.10, $2.10] continued her win streak in a $10,700 division for trotting fillies, crossing under the wire two-and-a-half lengths ahead of the rest in 1:58.4. The daughter of CR Commando was handy through fractions of 28.3, 1:00.2 and 1:30.0 with a last quarter of 28.4. Jim Morand drove the winner of nearly $260,000 lifetime to her fifth straight win this year. Les Givens trains, and the filly is co-owned by Morand and Nanticoke Racing Inc. 
   Other notable finishes include SJ’s Reel Girl [$7.80, $6.60, $2.60] in a $10,700 division for fillies; the SJ’s Photo filly won by two lengths after trotting second-over with Mark Gray at her lines. With a last quarter of 30.3, the trainee of Nancy Lisi hit another gear to win in 1:59.3. Arthur Lisi owns SJ’s Reel Girl.
   In the other $10,200 division for colts and geldings, Man Of Science [$4.40, $2.10, $2.10] trotted gate-to-wire in 1:58.4 under the guidance of driver Brandon Givens. The CR Commando gelding held strong through quarters of 29.0, 1:00.4 and 1:30.4 to win by half of a length. Les Givens trains for owners Brandon Givens and Walter Blacharski.
   Post time is at 5:00 p.m. tonight, and several divisions of the Maryland Standardbred Race Fund for three-year-old pacers are carded.
   Both Sheer Brilliance at 6/5 early odds and Quick Thinker at 7/5 morning line odds are standouts in the $22,700 division for colts and geldings. Quick Thinker, a second-place finisher to Sheer Brilliance last week, paced in 1:50.4 with a 26.4 last quarter. Les Givens trains the Glowing Tribute colt for owners Jim Morand and Nanticoke Racing Inc. Brandon Givens will drive the colt from post two.
Sheer Brilliance set a new record last week, pacing in 1:50.4 with Victor Kirby in the bike. The Blissful High gelding, a trainee of Jeff Long, has been impressive this season, winning six of nine starts. Jeff Long co-owns the colt with J Paul Long.
   Two divisions for fillies are also scheduled; Talk All Day, a winner last week, will open on the board at 6/5 odds for trainer-driver David Wade. The Western Hanover filly, owned by the Sweet & Sassy Stable, scored a six-and-a-quarter length victory last week, winning in 1:54.0. Southern Blue was a winner in her division last week as well, and will open up at 6/5 odds. Owned and trained by Gerald Kelly, the Nuclear High filly won in 1:53.3 last time out with a 28.4 final quarter. Brandon Givens will drive from post five.
  

SHEER BRILLIANCE CAPTURES NEW RECORD AT ROSECROFT
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-31-2008)      – Sheer Brilliance [$3.00, $2.20, $2.10] set a seasonal national record for three-year-old geldings on a 5/8 mile track at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday, winning a division of the Maryland Standardbred Race Fund on the pace in 1:50.4. The trainee of Jeff Long also set a new stakes and track record with the sharp mile; driven by Victor Kirby from post four in an $11,400 division of the race, Sheer Brillance went gate-to-wire to win by a head. Setting fractions of 26.4, 55.4 and 1:23.3, the Blissfull Hall gelding was strong to the wire with a last quarter of 27.1. Jeff and J Paul Long co-own the winner of over $50,000 lifetime. Quick Thinker [$2.60, $2.10] put up a good fight with a last quarter of 26.4 after a pocket trip. The Glowing Tribute colt, driven by Brandon Givens for trainer Les, paced the mile in 1:50.4 as well. Jim Morand and Nanticoke Racing Inc. co-own the colt. Where’s Tucker [$2.10] finished third, pacing first-over to challenge the front-runners. With Roger Plante Jr. in the sulky, the Jenna’s Beach Boy gelding finished the mile with a 27.1 last quarter. Steven LeBlanc trains for Parent Racing Stable LLC, Crystal Ball Stables and LeBlanc Racing Inc.
 

FIRST ROUND OF MARYLAND STANDARDBRED RACE FUNDS HELD
17 RACES SET FOR TONIGHT
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-31-2008) – Several divisions of the Maryland Standardbred Race Fund for three-year-old trotters were held at Rosecroft Raceway on Friday evening, and many of the betting favorites took top honors.
   In the first $11,100 division for fillies, Juanita [$2.20, $2.10, $2.10] trotted wire-to-wire through quarters of 28.3, 58.3 and 1:28.3 to win by over three lengths in 1:58.1 with Jim Morand at her lines. Trained by Les Givens for Morand and Nanticoke Racing, Inc., the CR Commando filly held a steady lead throughout the race and finished with a 29.3 last quarter. Commando Queen [$2.10, $2.10], another CR Commando filly, finished second after trotting first-over with Victor Kirby in the bike. Trained by Josh Green for owners the Patchel Family Stable LLC, William Outten, Virginia Fisher and Green Racing Inc., Commando Queen made up several lengths throughout the mile. Kisses On Command [$3.40], a daughter of CR Commando, finished third in the $20.00 trifecta. Driven by Roger Plante Jr., Kisses On Command went off at 17/1 odds. Kay Gannon trains the filly for Robert and Deborah Rementer.
   A $10,200 division for colts and geldings brought Bettis [$7.20, $4.80, $2.40] to the winner’s circle after a perfect pocket trip. Driven by trainer David Wade, the Sierra Kosmos colt tracked Man Of Science (Brandon Givens) through quarters of 29.2, 59.1 and 1:28.4 to win by a length in 1:57.3. Wade co-owns the colt with William Peel and Gerald Brittingham. Man Of Science [$3.00, $2.20] held on for second as the even-money choice. Trained by Les Givens for owners Brandon Givens and Walter Blacharski, the CR Commando gelding led the mile to the stretch and put in a valiant effort with a 29.1 last quarter. Third under the wire were Perfect Man [$2.10] and driver Victor Kirby. The Malabar Man gelding, owned by Victor and Pearl Kirby along with Preston Walls, trotted second-over with a 28.4 last quarter. Jeff Long trains the gelding. The triple returned $44.80.
   The second $10,900 division for fillies showcased the talents of Winsmith Amy [$4.20, $2.80, $2.10], a CR Commando filly owned by Scott Woogen. Winsmith Amy led the pack through easy quarters of 30.2, 1:00.0 and 1:30.2, winning by a nose in 2:01.3. John Wagner drove for trainer Manley Brown Jr. Whitesville Image [$4.20, $2.60] was second, coming from nearly eight lengths off. Guided by driver David Hill III for owner-trainer Gary White, the Tagliabue filly was sharp at 6/1 odds. Go Get Katie [$3.40], a daughter of Go Get Lost, finished third for the Gazzerro connections. The filly closed in 29.1 to hit the board in the $128.00 trifecta.
   The final $10,200 division for colts and geldings was dominated by Jon Win [$2.20, $2.60, $2.10], a Chip Chip Hooray gelding that won by over five lengths in 1:58.1. Driven by Victor Kirby for trainer Jeff Long and owner Charlene Long, Jon Win set quarters of 29.2, 59.4 and 1:29.1. Muscles Rule [$3.00, $3.00] was second after sitting in the pocket through the mile. Trained and driven by Roger Hammer, who also co-owns with Frank Dettore, the Muscles Yankee colt trotted handily in 1:59.1. Third in the $24.20 triple was Freedom Rail [$3.40], a Donerail gelding driven by Brandon Givens at 21/1 odds by post time. Les Givens trains for Brandon, Preston Walls and Nanticoke Racing Inc.
   The Maryland Standardbred Race Fund for sophomore pacers highlight the card tonight (Saturday, May 31); Dover Dolly is the early 5/2 pick in the first $8,800 division for fillies. The Badlands Hanover filly wills tart from post five with Wayne Long in the sulky. Recently racing in Delaware with minor success, the filly does show speed with a lifetime mark of 1:54.1. Robert Myers trains for James McAuliffe.
   The colts and geldings race for $11,400 in the fifth, with Sailing Cruise as the early 2/1 favorite. Trained by Jeff Long for George Zitone and Michael Peterson, the Riverboat King colt shows wins at Pocono Downs and a mark of 1:53.0. John Wagner will drive from post six.
   Southern Blue will try her luck in the second $8,800 division for fillies as the 5/2 morning line choice. After finishing third at Chester Downs recently, the Nuclear High filly shows experience and a mark of 1:55.1. Brandon Givens will drive from post five for owner-trainer Gerald Kelly.
   The third division for fillies worth $8,600 is headed up by Snatch The Fortune at 8/5 early odds. Winning last week in 1:53.2 at Rosecroft, the Cams Fortune filly appears to be the one to beat. Clayton Goad trains and co-owns with John Brown, and Brandon Givens will drive from post six.
   Sheer Brilliance is the 9/5 choice in the second division for colts and geldings worth a purse of $11,400. A winner at the Meadows on May 9th in 1:53.3, the Blissfull Hall gelding has been impressive with a line of 5-0-0 across the board from 8 starts. Victor Kirby will drive from post four for Jeff and Paul Long.
   Tonight’s post time is 6:30 p.m.
 

BRENNEMAN EARNS FIRST CAREER WIN
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-24-2008) – Driver Justin Brenneman, 18, scored his first career win aboard Mafia Hall [$17.80, $7.20, $3.40] at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday, taking top honors in a non-winners pace with a mile in 1:56.2. Guided off of the gate from post position five at 7/1 odds, the four-year-old Blissfull Hall gelding dropped into the pocket behind Admiral’s Scooter (John Wagner). Mafia Hall paced through a well-rated mile of 28.2, 59.0 and 1:27.3, and was fourth in the stretch before hitting another gear. BreFT. WASHINGTON, MD – Trotting divisions of the Maryland Standardbred Race Funds are featured on Friday evening at Rosecroft Raceway, as several events will be contested throughout the 15-race card.

In the first race, a trot for three-year-old fillies worth $11,100, Juanita is the early 5/2 morning line favorite after winning a qualifying mile at Harrington Raceway by over 12 lengths in 2:03.2. The daughter of CR Commando, trained by Les Givens for owners Jim Morand and Nanticoke Racing Inc., has banked almost $250,000 lifetime to date with nearly a perfect record of 11-1-0 across the board from 12 starts. Jim Morand will drive the filly away from the gate in post two.

Commando Queen (Victor Kirby, 3/1), Excellent Caviar (Roger Hammer, 6/1), SJ’s Reel Girl (Mark Gray, 6/1), Kisses On Command (Roger Plante Jr., 8/1), Jane B (John Wagner, 10/1), Lookingforarose (Timmy Offutt, 10/1) and Taboo Yankee (Ray Romanetti, 6/1) complete the first race field.

In the third race, a trot worth $10,200 for sophomore colts, Perfect Man will open on the board at 5/2 early odds. The Malabar Man gelding, co-owned by Victor and Pearl Kirby along with Preston Walls, shows prior speed at The Meadowlands, trotting to a third place finish back on May 1st in 1:57.0. The trainee of Jeff Long currently has a mark of 2:01.3 set at Rosecroft this year. Victor Kirby will drive form post five.

From the rail out, other contenders include Star Crossed (Roger Hammer, 7/2), Man Of Science (Brandon Givens, 3/1), Mr Crazy (Sam Belote, 9/2), Bettis (David Wade, 4/1) and Prophecy (Roger Plante Jr., 10/1).

Basic Encounter is the top choice at 9/5 odds in the fifth race, a $10,900 trot for three-year-old fillies. From the outside post, the daughter of Political Briefing looks to be a top contender and will make this start using lasix for the first time. Trained and driven by Eddie Dennis for Basic Encounter LP, the filly shows a seasonal mark of 2:00.0 set at Dover Downs this year.

Rounding out the field are Lady Lane (David Wade, 6/1), Just A Little Bit (Frank Milby, 6/1), Whitesville Image (David Hill III, 6/1), Winsmith Amy (John Wagner, 5/2), Go get Katie (John Gazzerro, 10/1) and Creative Shopper (Roger Plante Jr., 10/1).

Jon Win will attempt to extend a perfect season in the seventh race, the second $10,200 division for three-year-old colt and gelding trotters. Trained by Jeff Long for owner Charlene Long, the Chip Chip Horray gelding shows two wins last month at Rosecroft and a seasonal mark of 1:59.1. Victor Kirby will drive from the rail position, and the pair will open on the board at 9/5 early odds.

Muscles Rule will be competition at 8/5 odds from post three with trainer Roger Hammer at his lines. The Muscles Yankee colt, a winner his last start at the Meadows in 1:59.1, was successful last year at Rosecroft, hitting the board three of seven starts. Hammer co-owns the colt with Frank Dettore.

Emma’srowdy Knight (John Wagner, 6/1), Freedom Rail (Brandon Givens, 6/1), Jeremiah Trotter (David Wade, 6/1) and Right Socks (John Gazzerro, 8/1) will also contend.

Post time for Friday’s big 15-race card is 6:30 p.m.
g is co-owned by Dana West and Sharon Baker, both of Maryland. Admiral’s Scooter [$3.20, $3.60] held on for second with a valiant effort, closing in 28.4. Jason Walters owns and trains the 11-year-old Admirals Galley gelding. Dancing Up A Storm [$2.80], a seven-year-old Village Jekyll gelding, finished third with Wayne Long at his lines. Owned and trained by Jackie Roe, Dancing Up A Storm worked out an easy trip along the rail to save ground. The trifecta paid a notable $510.00.
 

IMPERIOUS SCORES PERFECT TRIP TO WIN AT ROSECROFT
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-24-2008) – Imperious [$9.20, $3.80, $3.40] sat in the pocket to win the $4,200 featured pace at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday evening, claiming victory by a length in 1:54.3.
 Driven off of the gate from post four by Frank Milby, the six-year-old Glowing Tribute gelding secured a seat behind Moonlitebillandbob through quarters of 27.4, 58.0 and 1:25.3. Imperious, trained by Roger Hans for owner Tom Cooke, closed with a last quarter of 28.3 to win his fourth of the year. The gelding now sports a line of 4-5-1 across the board from 18 seasonal starts. Moonlitebillandbob [$7.00, $4.00] held on for second after showing early gate speed, cutting the mile from post six. Owned, trained and driven by Wayne Long, the seven-year-old Gothic Dream horse held strong in the stretch with a 29.1 last quarter at 8/1 odds. Instigator [$2.80], somewhat overlooked at the betting windows at 7/1 odds by post time, finished third in the $159.80 trifecta. Driven by trainer ‘Bib’ Roberts, the eight-year-old Presidential Ball gelding made up some lengths in the stretch with a 28.4 final quarter. The Graham Grace Stables LLC own Instigator.
   Harness racing action continues next Friday, May 30th, at 6:30 p.m.
 

GOODBYE DADDY WINS AGAIN AT ROSECROFT
JJ’S ARTISCAPE HEADLINES SATURDAY FEATURED PACE
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-24-2008) – Goodbye Daddy [$5.60, $2.80, $2.20] stretched his wins to two in a row in the $4,200 Winner’s Over trot at Rosecroft Raceway on Friday, taking the mile in a confident 1:57.3. The six-year-old Master Lavec gelding, driven by owner Frank Milby, sat in third through an opening quarter of 28.1. Milby took the gelding out before the half to secure the lead through remaining fractions of 58.1 and 1:28.2. Trained by Don Milby, Goodbye Daddy won by half of a length at even-money odds. Eagle Road [$2.80, $3.40] finished second with a trip along the rail for owner-trainer Andrew Markano. Driven by Victor Kirby, the five-year-old CR Commando gelding made up lengths in the stretch with a 28.4 last quarter. Third in the $30.20 trifecta was Buck I D [$3.00], a four-year-old Superstar Sahbra gelding that was parked at the quarter but secured a seat in the pocket behind Goodbye Daddy. John Wagner drove for trainer Manley Brown Jr. and owner Ken Weckstein. 
   In the $4,200 Winner’s Over pace for fillies and mares, Snatch The Fortune [$4.40, $3.00, $2.20] was victorious with Brandon Givens at her lines. Bet down to the favorite by post time, the sophomore Cams Fortune filly paced handily through fractions of 27.1, 56.4 and 1:25.1 to win by over two lengths in 1:53.2. Clayton Goad trains and co-owns the filly with John Brown. Funny Lil Grin [$8.60, $2.40] was second with Wayne Long in the sulky as the longest shot in the race at 10/1 odds. Owned and trained by Freddy Darby, the seven-year-old Grinfromeartoear mare sat third through much of the mile to hit the board. You Diehl [$2.40], driven by Donnie Russell, finished third. The five-year-old Western Ideal mare is co-owned by Richard Smith and trainer Ron MacArthur. The triple returned $110.60.
   Set to open on the board at 5/2 morning line odds, JJ’s Artiscape will give it another go as the favorite in the $4,200 featured pace tonight, Saturday May 24. Trained by ‘Doc’ Davison Jr., the seven-year-old Artiscape gelding finished fifth last week after being forced three-wide after the half. This week, the gelding will start from post two with Chuck Perry Jr. at the lines. Mayanne Karmin and Sydell Stone co-own the winner of over $200,000 lifetime. Imperious is a close contender at 3/1 early odds after finishing second last week in this class. The six-year-old Glowing Tribute gelding has been on the board each of his last six starts. Frank Milby will drive from post four for trainer Roger Hans and owner Tom Cooke. Oh Gee Whiz (John Wagner, 6/1), Instigator, (‘Bib’ Roberts, 7/2), Weiss Hanover (Donnie Russell, 4/1) and Moonlitebillandbob (Wayne Long, 6/1) will also contend in this closely matched field.
   Tonight’s post time is 6:30 p.m. and 15 races will be presented.
 

WHOLEFTTHEGATEOPEN WINS IN CLOSE MILE AT ROSECROFT
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-17-2008) – In a minor upset, Wholeftthegateopen [$27.40, $12.20, $5.20] showed early gate speed to win the $4,200 featured pace at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday from post position seven in 1:55.2. Driven by Chuck Perry Jr., the five-year-old Mattuity gelding scored a seat along the rail in fourth and tracked the frontrunners through quarters of 26.4, 57.2 and 1:26.1. Trained by Mitchell Small for owner Jason Cribbs, the gelding won by a neck with a strong last quarter of 28.3. With a pocket trip after having the lead at the opening quarter, Imperious [$5.00, $4.60] managed to finished second with a brave mile. Driven by Wayne Long, the six-year-old Glowing Tribute gelding was game throughout the race, never falling behind the leader more than a length and a half. Roger Hans trains for owner Tom Cooke. Also dueling for the lead, Instigator [$2.60] finished third, three-and-a-quarter lengths off of the winner. With Jonathan Roberts at his lines, the eight-year-old gelded son of Presidential Ball closed in 29.4 to stay in the $247.60 trifecta. ‘Bib’ Roberts trains for the Graham Grace Stables LLC.
   Live harness racing returns to the Maryland oval next Friday, May 23rd at 6:30 p.m.
 

‘GRIN’, ‘DADDY’ WIN ROSECROFT CO-FEATURES
EARLY POST TIME TONIGHT AT ROSECROFT
PREAKNESS EVENTS SET FOR SATURDAY
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-17-2008) – Both Funny Lil Grin and Goodbye Daddy took their respective featured races at Rosecroft Raceway on Friday evening with impressive miles.
   Funny Lil Grin [$43.00, $11.00, $3.60], a seven-year-old Grinfromeartoear mare, won the $4,200 Winner’s Over distaff pace as the longest shot on the board at 20/1 odds. Driven by Wayne Long for owner-trainer Freddy Darby, Funny Lil Grin sat along the rail in fourth through fractions of 28.0, 57.0 and 1:25.3. The mare gained speed in the stretch to win by half a length in 1:56.2. Betting favorite Pink Sweater [$2.80, $2.10] finished second after battling for the lead position. With Jonathan Roberts at the lines, the sophomore Badlands Hanover filly cut the mile but lost steam heading towards the wire after a tough opening fraction. John Sumner trains and co-owns with William Camp. You Diehl [$2.10] finished third under the driving guidance of Sean Bier. The five-year-old Western Ideal mare, trained by Ron Mac Arthur, tried a first-over bid with a 30.3 final quarter. MacArthur co-owns the mare with Richard Smith. The trifecta paid out $393.40.
   Goodbye Daddy [$6.60, $2.40, $2.10] beat the even-money trainer entry of Buck I D and Keigan in the $4,200 Winner’s Over trot, holding strong with a wire-to-wire mile. Driven by owner Frank Milby, the six-year-old Master Lavec was unbeatable through quarters of 28.1, 59.0 and 1:28.1. Don Milby trains the gelding, which won by a head in 1:58.1. Eagle Road [$4.00, $2.80] finished second at 10/1 odds after sitting in the pocket. The five-year-old CR Commando gelding, owned and trained by Andrew Markano, challenged the winner with a 29.4 last quarter. Third in the $124.20 triple were Buck I D [$2.10] and driver John Wagner. The pair sat along the rail in third for the mile to hit the board. Manley Brown Jr. trains the four-year-old Superstar Sahbra gelding for owner Ken Weckstein.
   Tonight’s post time of 5:45 p.m., pushed up to accommodate the Preakness activities, brings the $4,200 Winner’s Over pace into the spotlight – the first of 13 races. Lukewarm betting choice JJ’s Artiscape, set to open on the board at 3/1 early odds, won a qualifying mile on May 7th in an easy 1:57.2. Trained by ‘Doc’ Davison Jr. for owners Mayanne Karmin and Sydell Stone, the seven-year-old Artiscape gelding took a mark of 1:52.0 and earned nearly $75,000 over the Rosecroft oval last year. Jewett Pumphrey will be aboard for the drive, and the pair will face the starter in post two. Imperious will by trying for his third consecutive win at this level; last time out, the six-year-old Glowing Tribute gelding was victorious by half a length in 1:54.0. Trained by Roger Hans for owner Tom Cooke, Imperious will open on the board at 4/1 odds. Wayne Long will drive from post position four. Completing the field are Instigator (Jonathan Roberts, 9/2), Coit Hanover (John Wagner, 8/1), Dees Last Man (Frank Milby, 6/1), Stirseventimes (Donnie Russell, 8/1), Wholeftthegateopen (Chuck Perry Jr., 5/1) and Panedict Arnold (Brian Burton, 8/1).
   Many exciting events are set for Saturday in celebration of the Preakness. Rosecroft will pay 10% more on win wagers placed at Rosecroft on the Preakness. Several prize drawings will take place throughout the evening, and similar to Derby day, there will be a drawing for a betting voucher after each of Rosecroft’s races from the second to the 11th. The value of the vouchers will progress by $100 each race starting with a $100 voucher and ending with a $1,000 voucher. There will be a drawing for a 42” Plasma TV for those entrants who registered at Rosecroft on Derby day. Happy hour specials will run from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m., and a special Preakness lunch and dinner will be held in the dining room. The Mama Jama Band will be playing from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. For more information on the reggae band, visit http://samhillbands.com/bands/mamajama/index.shtml.
   Post time for Saturday’s card is pushed up to 5:45 p.m. to accommodate the festivities. For further details, call (301) 567-4000 or visit www.rosecroft.com.
 

ROSECROFT APPOINTS SNELL AS NEW CEO
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-12-2008) – Rosecroft Raceway is proud to announce that Ted Snell has been appointed as the new CEO of the Maryland racing establishment.
   Mr. Snell, a veteran of the racing industry, possesses extensive knowledge in the sport on many levels. In the early 1990’s, Mr. Snell held the position of President of both Rosecroft Raceway and Delmarva Downs (now Ocean Downs), and was able to increase attendance as well as expand simulcasting efforts at both locations.
   Most recently, Mr. Snell served as the Vice President and General Manager of Pompano Harness Track with much success. Other career accomplishments include holding the position of President and General Manager of Freehold Raceway, General Manager of Suffolk Downs, President and General Manager of Finger Lakes Race Track and upper-level positions at greyhound parks in Florida, Connecticut and New Hampshire.
   Mr. Snell has also served as a state senator in New Hampshire and holds expertise in working with legislators, lobbyists and Labor Unions.
   Rosecroft Raceway is excited to welcome Mr. Snell, and looks forward to prosperous endeavors in the near future.
 

IMPERIOUS WINS AS FAVORITE IN ROSECROFT FEATURE
PINK SWEATER, KEIGAN WIN FRIDAY FEATURES
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-10-2008) – Bet down to favorite status by post time, Imperious [$5.80, $3.20, $3.80] proved he was the best in the $4,200 Winner’s Over pace at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday evening. Driven by Wayne Long through a pocket trip, the six-year-old Glowing Tribute gelding sat behind Coit Hanover (John Wagner). The leader paced the mile in 27.2, 57.2 and 1:25.0, and Imperious took advantage of the inside lane to win by half a length in 1:54.0. Roger Hans trains the gelding for owner Tom Cooke. Instigator [$4.80, $2.80] finished second after coming off the pace with Jonathan Roberts at his lines. Trained by ‘Bib’ Roberts for the Graham Grace Stables LLC, the eight-year-old Presidential Ball gelding made up nearly five lengths through the middle half of the mile and closed in 28.2. Bucktown Badboy [$3.40], the morning line choice, finished third with a confident mile. Timmy Offutt drove the six-year-old Badlands Hanover gelding from last to only three and a half lengths off of the winner. ‘Doc’ Davison Jr. trains and owns Bucktown Badboy, and the trifecta paid $260.40.
   Pink Sweater [$6.00, $2.20, $2.10] made a bold quarter-pole move for the lead in the $4,200 Winner’s Over pace for fillies and mares at Rosecroft Raceway on Friday, commanding the top spot after an opening fraction of 28.3. Driven by Jonathan Roberts, the sophomore daughter of Badlands Hanover paced strongly through middle quarters of 57.3 and 1:26.0, winning by half a length in 1:56.1. John Sumner trains and co-owns the filly with William Camp. You Diehl [$2.60, $2.20] finished second with Sean Bier in the sulky; the trainee of Ron MacArthur paced second-over around lagging horses to hit the board in a close finish. MacArthur co-owns the five-year-old Western Ideal mare with Richard Smith.
Grace Of Hearts [$4.80] was brave for third at 19/1 odds by post time. The four-year-old Allie’s Western mare, owned, trained and driven by Kelly Staten, sat in the pocket to hit the board with a 29.4 last quarter. The triple paid $98.40.
   Keigan [$11.60, $4.20, $2.40] trotted to the top in the $4,200 Winner’s Over event, winning by just over a length in 1:58.0. Driven by John Wagner for trainer Manley Brown Jr., the six-year-old son of March Seventh sat in the pocket for a perfect trip. Keigan trotted handily behind the leader through fractions of 28.2, 58.2 and 1:27.4 for owner Scott Woogen. Goodbye Daddy [$4.00, $2.20] was second after cutting the mile with owner-driver Frank Milby at his lines. The six-year-old gelded son of Master Lavec fought for the lead at the opening quarter, and just missed the win by a length and three-quarters. Don Milby trains the gelding. Third in the $69.60 trifecta was RT Phoebes Giant [$2.40]. The six-year-old RT Giant gelding, co-owned by Eileen and Joyce Lineweaver, who also trains, was forced to trot three-wide after the half to hit the board.
   Live harness racing continues next Friday, May 16th at 6:30 p.m.
  

IMPERIOUS PAYS OFF IN ROSECROFT FEATURE
MILBY IS THE ‘SATURDAY MAN’ AT THE ‘CROFT
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-3-2008) – The longest shot on the board, Imperious [$57.80, $12.40 $3.60], won the $4,200 featured pace at Rosecroft Raceway on Saturday with ease in 1:54.3. Driven by Wayne Long, the six-year-old Glowing Tribute gelding sat in the pocket through early quarters of 27.0 and 57.0. Long asked the gelding for more near the three-quarter pole in 1:25.1, and Glowing Tribute responded, closing in 29.1 to beat the field by a length and a half. Roger Hans trains the gelding for owner Tom Cooke. Instigator [$2.80, $2.10] finished second after coming from nearly eight lengths off of the pace. Driven well by Chris Offutt, the eight-year-old Presidential Ball gelding was strong through the middle half of the mile. Bib Roberts trains for the Graham Grace Stables LLC. Third were Bucktown Badboy [$2.20] and driver Timmy Offutt. The duo, off at even-money odds, were parked through the middle half and ran into minor interference around the three-quarter pole. The six-year-old Badlands Hanover gelding, owned and trained by Doc Davison Jr., paced in a respectable 1:55.0 despite the trouble. The trifecta returned $247.20.
   Reinsman Frank Milby won seven of 12 races on Saturday evening, proving why he holds the top spot in the driver standings. Blue Boy won the third race, a non-winners pace, in 1:54.4 by six lengths. The three-year-old Real Artist gelding, trained by ‘Bib’ Roberts, was extremely impressive on the front end.
Milby came back in the fifth race with Paradusho N, an 11-year-old veteran mare by Road Machine. Trained by George Bartlett, the mare paced first-over to win in 1:55.4. In the sixth race, Allamerican Solo was best in 1:56.0 on the pace. The trainee of Ron MacArthur, a three-year-old Western Hanover gelding, came second-over to secure the lead before the three-quarter pole. Milby continued to dominate the track in the seventh race, driving Mister Bruinski to a win in 1:57.3 on the pace. Roger Hans trains the five-year-old Glowing Tribute gelding. In the eighth, Bootmaker scored a four-length win in 1:54.4. The five-year-old Badlands Hanover gelding, trained by George Bartlett, paced confidently off of the gate from post seven for a wire-to-wire trip. Milby took the last two races; the 11th featured Man He Can Go, a five-year-old Masterman gelding trained by Brian Callahan. The gelding paced gate to wire in 1:55.3, winning by just over a length. In the 12th race, Country Rogue N stayed on the front, winning by a neck in 1:57.0 on the pace. Shawn Hanley trains the nine-year-old Falcon Seelster gelding.
   Racing continues this Friday, May 9th, at 6:30 p.m.
 

NICOLES SCOOTER BESTS ROSECROFT FEATURED FIELD
WAGNER BACK TO WINNING WAYS
BUCKTOWN BADBOY 9/5 PICK IN SATURDAY FEATURE
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-2-2008) – Driver Kelly Staten guided Nicoles Scooter [$13.80, $11.00, $4.00] to the winner’s circle in the $4,200 featured distaff pace at Rosecroft Raceway on Friday, winning by a length and three quarters in 1:55.3. Leaving the gate from the rail position, the four-year-old Real Artist mare sat fourth through an opening quarter of 27.3. Staten took the mare out first-over in a confident bid, pacing through middle fractions of 57.2 and 1:26.0. Owned and trained by Gerald Kelly, Nicoles Scooter fended off the betting favorite in the stretch to reward her fans at the windows. Dig Alittle Deeper [$3.40, $3.20], the even-money choice by post time, finished second after cutting the early portion of the mile. With Frank Milby at her lines, the four-year-old daughter of Nuclear High held on with a 30.0 last quarter. Roger Hans trains for owner Tom Cooke. Third in the $59.40 trifecta were You Diehl [$3.00] and driver Eddie Dennis. Co-owned by Richard Smith and trainer Ron MacArthur, the five-year-old Western Ideal mare came from several lengths off of the pace to hit the board.
   Driver John Wagner took five of 11 races on Friday night, showing that he is still one of the best on the Maryland circuit. In the second race, Modern Marvel trotted wire-to-wire in 1:57.1 to win by a neck for trainer Manley Brown Jr. Wagner owns the six-year-old Self Possessed gelding. The third race featured Winning Women, a sophomore Riverboat King filly owned by Pamela Wagner. After being more than 11 lengths off of the leader at the first quarter, Winning Women scored a length victory in 2:00.1 on the pace.
Deere Callie won by half a length on the trot in race seven despite breaking stride at the start of the mile. Owned by Lloyd Gilmour, the three-year-old Emile Angus filly recovered well to make up around seven lengths through the back half of the mile. It’s The Law went gate-to-wire in the ninth race, pacing to a two-and-a-half length win in 1:59.0. Owned and trained by Gerald Kelly, the three-year-old Western Hero colt was the betting choice and closed the deal with a 29.2 final quarter. In the 11th event, Our Rotten Ruby won by half a length on the pace in 1:57.2. The seven-year-old Doctor Of Style mare, owned by Michael Ternisky, gained the lead after an opening quarter of 29.0.
   With an early post time of 5:45 p.m. due to the Kentucky Derby festivities, the $4,200 Winner’s Over pace is the highlight of the live racing card. Bucktown Badboy, the 9/5 morning line pick after pacing wire-to-wire last week, will start from post four with Timmy Offutt in the sulky. Owned and trained by ‘Doc’ Davison Jr., the six-year-old Badlands Hanover gelding was very impressive on April 26th, beating similar by over two lengths in 1:53.3. At 5/2 odds from the rail, Fuzzy Sylberun returns from a try at Harrington for trainer Brian Callahan. The eight-year-old JB Stena gelding finished fifth over the half-mile track. However, on April 19th at Rosecroft, Fuzzy Sylberun was a winner in 1:55.1. Regular driver Frank Milby will be aboard for the mile, and Callahan co-owns the gelding with the Love Of My Life Stable. Weiss Hanover (Donnie Russell, 3/1), Imperious (Wayne Long, 5/1) and Instigator (Chris Offutt, 5/1) round out the field.
 

YOU DIEHL AIMS FOR REPEAT AT ROSECROFT
CELEBRATE DERBY DAY AT ROSECROFT
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (5-2-2008) - In the $4,200 Winner's Over pace for fillies and mares, You Diehl will attempt to repeat her winning performance of last week as the 5/2 morning line choice at Rosecroft Raceway tonight. The five-year-old daughter of Western Ideal will leave the gate from post two with Eddie Dennis at her lines. Last time out, You Diehl paced first-over under the guidance of driver John Wagner to win by a head in 1:54.2 with a last quarter of 28.4. Ron MacArthur trains and co-owns the mare with Richard Smith. Dig Alittle Deeper, marked at 3/1 odds, could prove to be tough competition, as the four-year-old Nuclear High mare was second to You Diehl in a close mile last week. Trainer Roger Hans has named Frank Milby as driver, and the pair will face the starter in post four. Tom Cooke owns the mare, which has been consistently hitting the board in nearly all of her starts this season. From the rail, Nicoles Scooter is the early third choice at 4/1 odds. The four-year-old Real Artist mare was third last week in 1:54.2 to You Diehl. Owned and trained by Gerald Kelly, Nicoles Scooter will have driver Kelly Staten at her lines for the mile. Lady Down The Hall (Joe Offutt, 8/1), Tell Hillary (Donnie Russell, 6/1), Wynfield Girl (Jerry Nock, 8/1), Real Gambler (Wayne Long, 8/1) and Derrylin (Ken Weckstein, 10/1) round out the field.
   Tonight's 11-race card begins at 6:30 p.m.
   This Saturday, May 3rd, Rosecroft Raceway has festivities planned in honor of the Kentucky Derby. Post time for live harness racing has been moved up to 5:45 p.m. Free Rosecroft programs will be distributed, Happy Hour specials will run from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and a BBQ will be on the apron. A special Derby lunch and dinner are scheduled to take place in the dining room, along with a live piano performance, compliments of jazz composer James Witherite-Rieg beginning at 1p.m. For the Kentucky Derby, Rosecroft will give 10% more on win wagers. There will be voucher drawings beginning during Rosecroft's 2nd race that will continue for every race through the 11th. Voucheramounts start at $100 for the first drawing, and increase by $100 for each race. The 11th race voucher will be worth $1,000. At the registration table, guests will be asked to sign a mailing list in order to be eligible to win a 42" plasma TV, which will be given away on Preakness day. Guests must be present to win. Contact the track directly at 301-567-4000 for complete details.
 

NUCLEAR BREEZE BLOWS DOWN THE ROAD IN 1:48.2 WORLD RECORD
Daina Kazmaier - Rosecroft Publicity Department

FT. WASHINGTON, MD (7-9-2007) - “They call me the breeze, I keep blowing down the road” -J.J. Cale
   Nuclear Breeze [$2.10, $2.10, $2.10] set an overall world record for pacers on a five-eighths mile track in the $10,000 top level Open event at Rosecroft Raceway on Monday evening, crushing the field in a blistering 1:48.2. The prior world record of 1:48.3 was held by both Maltese Artist (Dover Downs, Ron Pierce, 2005) and Casimir Camotion (Dover Downs, Brian Sears, 2006). The five-year-old Nuclear High horse sizzled through fractions of 26.1, 53.3 and 1:20.1 with Jim Morand at his lines, drawing off by over eleven lengths to notch his fourth seasonal win from eight starts. The earner of over $350,000 lifetime races for owner Tom Cooke of Rockville, MD and is trained by Roger Hans. “It was quite an evening,” owner Tom Cooke recapped when asked about the horse’s outstanding performance. “One of the most exciting parts was to see the fellow horsemen jumping up and down for him.” “One of the first things I did after the race was call Dr. Riddle; he was the vet who treated him for the splint bone [last year],” Cooke continued. “We’re going to take him [Nuclear Breeze] out there today so he can give him a thorough check up. The horse came out of the race good, Roger [Hans, trainer] had to get him back to the barn quickly to get water in him because it was so incredibly hot out.” “Assuming everything checks out, we’re headed to The Ben Franklin [free-for-all pace] at Chester Downs next,” Cooked mentioned. “The eliminations are this coming Sunday, and the final is the following Sunday.”
   Next up on Nuclear Breeze’s schedule is the US Pacing Championship at The Meadowlands, The Chesapeake Bay Series at Ocean Downs, the Winbak Farm Pace during Jug week and the Bobby Quillen Memorial at Harrington Raceway. “That’s our short term, ambitious schedule,” Cooke said. “We’re expecting to race the big boys at Chester this year.” Cooke is sure Nuclear Breeze will be up to the challenge, though. “He’s very, very fresh, on the top of his game. He reminds me so much of how fr