News & Notes

Envoy’s Secret and Hector Ramos prevailed by ½ a length in Wednesday’s featured turf race at Suffolk Downs, completing five furlongs in :59 1/5 over a firm turf course.

Trained by Gerry Souto, the three-year-old son of French Envoy broke sharply and got caught in a speed duel with longshot Luckee Match. Those two battled down to the wire, three lengths clear of the rest of the field.

Envoy’s Secret returned $16.80, 8.60 and 5.60. Luckee Match paid $8.80 and 7.00 while Hangingonthefuture returned $5.60.

Sent off as the 1-2 favorite in Monday’s featured turf race at Suffolk Downs, National Hero rolled to a 3 ½ length victory, completing seven and a half furlongs in 1:35.

Ridden by Hector Ramos for trainer John Pimental, the eight-year-old son of El Prado (IRE) stalked the front-running Sand Slider before seizing command at the top of the stretch to earn his third win of the year for Old First Ward Stable.

National Hero returned $3.00, 2.20 and 2.20. Gold Pageantry paid $4.60 and 3.60 while New England’s champion turf horse in 2009, Dadsfourwheeldrive, returned $5.60.

Technically Wicked made every call a winning one in Saturday’s featured allowance race, drawing off comfortably by 4 ¾ lengths and completing one mile and seventy yards in 1:43 over a fast track.

Under Jill Jellison, the five-year-old daughter of Tour d’Or broke earned her third victory of the year and sixth local win for trainer Bobby Raymond and owner Touchdown Stable.

Technically Wicked returned $19.80, 4.60 and 21.60. Multiple champion Ask Queenie paid $3.20 and 11.00 while Lucky You paid $22.60. Favored Sassy City finished fourth.

Out of Goodbyes earned her first career victory with a 3 ¾ length victory in Saturday’s $50,000 Louise Kimball Stakes for Massachusetts-bred three-year-old fillies.

Ridden by Luis Garcia for TK n Stride Stables and trained by Thomas McCooey, Jr., the state-bred daughter of Out of Place went gate to wire and completed six furlongs in 1:13 1/5 over a fast track.

Out of Goodbyes returned $6.80 and 2.60. Never Know paid $2.20. There was no show wagering.

Ask Queenie stalked the pace and rolled to a commanding 7 ¾ length victory in Saturday's $50,000 First Episode Stakes for Massachusetts-bred fillies and mares, completing the mile and seventy yards in 1:46 2/5.

Ridden by Tammi Piermarini for trainer Lori Lockhart, the nine-year-old daughter of Key Contender earned her 20th state-bred stakes win of her 62-race career. It is her third win in the First Episode, having captured it in 2005 and again in 2007.

"Lori has done an amazing job with her over the years," said Piermarini. "I'm honored that they allow me to ride her. It's a real honor."

Ask Queenie, sent off as the 1-5 favorite, returned $2.40 over Tally's Sundance and Southoftheborder. There was no place or show wagering.

Apprentice jockey Kristina McManigell rode three winners on Wednesday's nine race card at Suffolk Downs.

In the fifth race, McManigell began her triple with a narrow decision aboard Early Again ($11.80). In the sixth race, she guided Owen Meany ($7.00) to a ½ length victory as the favorite. She capped off the day with an upset win aboard the veteran Rome is Burning ($25.00) from off the pace.

McManigell, a 21-year-old graduate of Dorchester-native Chris McCarron's North American Riding Academy, is currently tied for seventh in the jockey standings with Carlos Quinones with 21 wins each.

Veteran Suffolk Downs handicapper Patrick Lamberty gave out a $121.40 winner in the track program on Tuesday, August 10, as maiden filly Ivannia Princess scored over the turf in the third race.

“I picked the horse based on breeding with the hope she would run well at long odds in what looked to be a wide open race,” said Lamberty. “Captain Red is by Mr. Greeley, an international sire who gets plenty of winners on turf and in Europe. I liked the hidden turf angle in the pedigree and it worked out in a big way. I hope at least one person used the horse to win. I did not have any money on Ivannia Princess, but I can guarantee you I will always remember her name.”

Western Tease, last year’s champion three-year-old in New England, ran his record to a perfect 7-for-7 on Monday, August 9, winning a starter allowance at Saratoga under Edgar Prado. The four-year-old gelding is trained by Bill Sienkewicz and owned by Sienkewicz and Anthony Spadea.

Western Tease dueled with Jack On the Rocks throughout the stretch before prevailing by a neck, completing six and a half furlongs on the main track in 1:15.83. Off at 7-2 in a field of seven, Western Tease returned $9.50, 5.30 and 3.70.

Western Tease began his career last fall when he was entered in a maiden claimer for a $4,500 tag. Unraced at two, he went4-for-4 as a three-year-old and is now 3-for-3 this year, with wins at Suffolk Downs and Delaware Park to go along with his victory at the Spa.

Swampy Town made it three in a row and earned his tenth local victory with a 1-½-length score in Tuesday's featured race at Suffolk Downs.

Sent to the lead by jockey Dyn Panell, Swampy Town made every call a winning one and completed the about five-furlong race in :58 flat over a firm turf course.

Swampy Town returned $5.60, 3.00 and 3.20. All the Bases finished second but was disqualified and placed sixth. Falcon Trace, placed second, returned $5.60 and 3.60. Exchange the Limit moved up to third and paid $7.20.

Earlier on the card, Ivannia Princess and Gilbert Estrella pulled off an upset victory in the third race and returned $121.40. The four-year-old daughter of Captain Red earned her first career victory on the turf.

Jason Ruff of Wakefield, MA took top honors in the qualifying tournament held Saturday, August 7 at Suffolk Downs to earn a spot in the Daily Racing Form/NTRA National Handicapping Championship.

Ruff finished with a total mythical bankroll of $190.40, besting Arthur DeToro of Jaffrey, NH by $155.60. By virtue of his second place finish, DeToro qualified for the National Championship as well.

Ruff and DeToro will compete against handicappers from around the country January 28-29, 2011 at Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa in Las Vegas.

The tournament drew 189 entrants from 17 states and Canada. Players were required to place mythical $2 win and place wagers on one horse in each of 15 pre-selected races from Suffolk Downs, Calder, Del Mar, Monmouth and Saratoga. All selections had to be submitted prior to the first race of the tournament and there was no cap on prices.

Prize money was determined by the number of entrants. The entry fee was $60, creating a total pool of $11,340, all of which was returned to the players. The winner received 50 percent, while the runner-up got 20 percent. Cash prizes were awarded to the top 10 finishers:

NAME, RESIDENCE - BANKROLL
1. Jason Ruff, Wakefield, MA - $190.40
2. Arthur DeToro, Jaffrey, NH - $155.60
3. John Petrishen, Boston, MA - $153.40
4. Paul Keaney, Norwood, MA - $121.40
5. Robert Sciretta, Wellesley, MA - $120.40
T6. Alan Cutler*, Brookline, MA - $110.00
T6. Dean Goulet, Manchester, NH - $110.00
8. Elizabeth Bider, Salem, NH - $107.20
9. Michael Cutuli, Hudson, NH - $104.40
10. Kelsey Cabral, New Britain, CT - $101.60

*won tiebreaker

Hall of Fame trainer Nick Zito and owner Robert LaPenta teamed up with local jockey David Amiss to take the early double on Monday's nine-race card at Suffolk Downs.

In the first race, 1-2 favorite V Sat ($3.00) delivered with a 12 ¾ length romp. Z Force ($2.60), sent off as the 1-5 favorite, followed up in the second race with a 6-½ length score. The early double returned $4.40.

In the fifth race, Amiss also guided Macho Muchacho ($26.00) to an upset victory for his third win of the day.

Leonida Robinson of Revere has been a waitress for 27 years, including the last 16 years at Suffolk Downs. Her job at Suffolk Downs has afforded her the opportunity to move ahead in life.

“It’s taken me from the projects to a condo to sending my son to college,” said Robinson as she prepared for a day of live racing in Legends Bar & Grill, which overlooks the racetrack. “I love my job, I love people. My regular customers are more like my family or friends than my customers.”

Waitresses in Legends earn around $300 in tips on a good day.

“I’ve waitressed at other places where I was lucky to make $300 a week. I like to say ‘I make just as much money as you, I just don’t wear a suit and tie.’ If you like people, this is where you should be.”

Elissa Pisano of Lynn, a waitress in the private Turf Club at Suffolk Downs, has been working at the racetrack for 20 years.

“It’s allowed me to maintain a living,” said Pisano. “It’s my livelihood. I find it to be very exciting. People aren’t just here to eat, they’re here for the day. They’re here for a good time. If I didn’t like it, I’d go somewhere else.”

Dawn Ciafardoni of Peabody has been a waitress at Suffolk Downs for 19 years. She has worked at other restaurants in the past, but it’s not the same as working at a racetrack.

“I enjoy the excitement of live racing and I enjoy the people that come here,” said Ciafardoni, who spends live racing days in the open-air Terrace restaurant where patrons are treated to a great view of the horses as they make their way down the stretch. “Working at other restaurants can be boring. When you have a lot of people here, like on a Saturday, it’s really exciting. People are happy to be here.”

Working at Suffolk Downs has allowed Ciafardoni, a single mother of two, to support herself and her kids.

“Both of my kids go to Catholic school. I have a mortgage. This job fits with my lifestyle, with raising kids.”

Miriam Sanchez has been a waitress at Suffolk Downs for the last 16 years. Sanchez came to the United States from Honduras in 1985. Now a U.S. citizen, Sanchez resides in East Boston in the home she purchased in 1999.

“This job has allowed me to buy a home and to raise my three children,” said Sanchez. “My youngest daughter is now going into college.”

“I love coming to work, I enjoy it. I feel very appreciated by my customers. When people win, you get some really good tips!”

Jockey Tammi Piermarini dominated Wednesday's nine-race card at Suffolk Downs with four wins for the day.

Piermarini swept the early double with Wedding Bells Soon ($10.40) and heavy favorite Smalt ($3.00). In the fourth race, she guided Chapel Affair ($4.40) to a 7-½-length romp. She capped off her four-win day with a 3 ¾ length score on Coach Gravy ($3.60), the 3-5 favorite.

Piermarini, leading rider in 2007, currently tops the jockey standings with 53 wins, four ahead of Hector Ramos.

Riversrunrylee, a two-time winner at Suffolk Downs last year, was named the recipient of the 2009 James B. Moseley Horse of the Year Award by the New England Turf Writers Association at its 68h Annual Awards Dinner held Thursday, July 29 at the Danversport Yacht Club in Danvers, MA.

Owned and bred by L and D Farm and trained by Juan Camilo, Riversrunrylee also earned champion older male honors in 2009.

Riversrunrylee returned to Boston after a successful winter at Tampa and was a game second behind the highly regarded Bridled Quest. He turned the tables on his rival in his next start on July 4 with an authoritative victory in his typical front-running fashion. In his next start, he shipped to Saratoga and faced Grade 1 company, finishing a solid third behind Met Mile winner Bribon. In his return to Suffolk Downs on October 5 in the Rudy Baez Classic, he led every step of the way and held off Grade 2 winner Delosvientos. That success continued at Tampa this past winter with two commanding performances on the grass.

Other divisional winners honored at the awards dinner were:

2-year-old filly – Oceans of Honey
2-year-old male – Lovethatdirtywater
3-year-old filly – Sassy City
Robert M. O’Malley Memorial Award – 3-year-old colt – Western Tease
Older female – Bill's Jewell
James R. Bishop Memorial Award - Older male – Riversrunrylee
Joseph E. Carney Memorial Award – Turf male – Dadsfourwheeldrive
Turf female - PJ's Lil Toni
Sprinter – Camacthmagnificent
Cliff Sundberg Memorial Award - New England-bred – Ask Queenie
Special Achievement – Giuseppe Iadisernia, Carlos Quinones
Eli Chiat Memorial Award – Outstanding Jockey – Orlando Bocachica
Gerry Sullivan Memorial Award – Outstanding Trainer – Rafael Ramos
Bob Varey Memorial Award – Media – Butch Stearns
Lou Smith Memorial Award – Yearly Achievement – The Employees of Suffolk Downs
Sam McCracken Memorial Award – Lifetime Achievement – Steve Pini

The New England Turf Writers Association also inducted its Hall of Fame Class of 2010, which consists of 1983 Massachusetts Handicap winner Let Burn, trainer Bruce G. Smith, jockey Denise Boudrot, the Yasou Stable Trust led by owner and breeder Charles Assimakopoulos, and reporter and handicapper Gerry Sullivan. A plaque bearing the names of all of the inductees is on permanent display at the Sports Museum located in the TD Banknorth Garden.

Jockey Hector Ramos rode three winners on Monday's nine race card at Suffolk Downs.

In the third race, Ramos went gate-to-wire with the favorite Tomorrow's Gal ($4.20). He went on to sweep the late daily double with a narrow decision aboard Meganello ($7.00) in the eighth and a 6 1/2-length romp on Musical Dream ($5.00) in the ninth.

Ramos is currently second in the jockey standings with 48 wins, one behind Tammi Piermarini.

Mini Goal relaxed off of a speed duel and made a bold move from mid-track to collar the front-runners, holding on by ½ a length over fast-closing favorite Oh Mandie.

Ridden to victory by Angel Vasquez, Jr. for trainer Ramon Davilla Aguayo, Mini Goal earned her second win of the year and returned $23.40, 10.20 and 5.40. Oh Mandie paid $3.20 and 2.60 while UK Girl returned $6.60.

Jockey Winston Thompson won three races on Tuesday's nine-race card at Suffolk Downs.

In the first race, Thompson started off the day with an upset win from off the pace aboard Slievenamon ($21.80). He was back in the winner's circle in the seventh after a gate-to-wire victory with African Angel ($9.80) and in the ninth race guided Again Eleven ($5.20) to a maiden win.

Thompson, leading rider in 2008, is currently third in the jockey standings with 31 victories for the season.

Gilded Profile made her career debut a winning one with a 3-¾ victory Monday at Suffolk Downs for trainer Christophe Clement.

The three-year-old chestnut filly is by Touch Gold and out of the Nureyev mare, Mien, making her a half-sister to Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness Stakes (G1) champion Big Brown.

Ridden to victory by Tammi Piermarini for her second of three wins on the nine-race card, Gilded Profile returned $3.80, 2.80 and 2.20. Longshot pace-setter Secret Honor paid $12.20 and 6.80 while Lusesita returned $3.40.

Mr. Meso made a strong rally from off the pace to take the $50,000 Last Dance Stakes for Massachusetts-breds by a neck over a tenacious Ask Queenie, completing the mile and seventy yard contest in 1:43 2/5.

Ridden by Hector Ramos for trainer Matthew Clarke, the ten-year-old son of Mesopotamia also won the $50,000 Rise Jim Stakes on July 3 for the New England Stallion Station.This stakes win was sixth career stakes win and 24th lifetime victory.

"There wasn't a lot of speed, so I put him closer today," said Ramos. "When I asked him, he took off. He's an old one, but he can run"

Mr. Meso returned $3.80, 2.40 and 2.20. Multiple New England champion Ask Queenie paid $2.60 and 2.60. Sultan's Price returned $2.60.

Jockey Hector Ramos rode three winners on Wednesday's card at Suffolk Downs. It was the second three-win day in a row for the 28-year-old rider.

In the second race, he guided Gilded Arrow ($5.20) to victory as the favorite. In the sixth race, he was aboard Maggie's Mowing ($8.20) for the win and followed that up in the eighth race with a maiden win on Primal Humor ($6.20).

Ramos is currently second in the jockey standings with 39 wins, four behind Tammi Piermarini.

Jockey Hector Ramos rode three winners on Tuesday's nine-race card at Suffolk Downs.

In the third race, he notched a 1-¼ length victory aboard the favored Falcon Trace ($5.60) in an allowance race on the turf. In the fifth, he guided Envoy's Secret ($4.20) to a four-length victory and followed that up in the sixth a win from off the pace with Delaware Ridge ($3.60).

Ramos is currently second in the jockey standings with 36 wins, six behind Tammi Piermarini.

Jockey Tammi Piermarini won four races on Monday's nine-race card at Suffolk Downs.

In the fourth race, Piermarini teamed up with Christophe Clement for an allowance win aboard the 1-5 favorite Embroidery ($2.60). In the fifth race, she guided LP's Tiger ($10.00) to a five-length victory and followed that up in the sixth with a win aboard Fortunate Trail ($4.20). In the eighth race, she went gate-to-wire on the turf with Our Sun ($12.20).

Piermarini, leading rider in 2007, currently tops the jockey standings with 40 wins for the season, seven ahead of Hector Ramos.

Awakino Cat stumbled at the start under Hill, but recovered and rolled to a one-and-a-quarter length victory for trainer Linda Rice in the Seabiscuit Stakes, taken off the turf due to rain and run at five furlongs on the main track.

"Our strategy was the same on or off the turf," said Hill. "He was a little unsure at first after he stumbled, but his class came through."

The five-year-old son of Stormy Atlantic returned $6.80, 4.40 and 2.80.

In the 13th running of the James B. Moseley Stakes, Hill and Everyday Heroes prevailed by a head over the even-money favorite Ju Jitsu Jax.

“This horse did not even get running until a few hundred yards from the finish,” said Hill. When he collared the other horse in midstretch, I knew he would go by and win.”

Everyday Heroes, a four-year-old son of Breeders’ Cup Classic Winner Awesome Again, paid 9.20, 4.20 and 2.80.

Suffolk Downs welcomed back an array of personalities from the track’s 75-year history, including Hall of Fame jockeys Chris McCarron and Jerry Bailey and local favorites Carl Gambardella and Abby Fuller. The honored guests were recognized in special winner’s circle presentations hosted by NBC Sports racing analyst and local sports personality Bob Neumeier.

City of Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino was on hand to present a proclamation to the track in recognition of its milestone anniversary.

Richard and Tom Phelan, whose parents owned the horse who won the very first race at Suffolk Downs on July 10, 1935, presented the trophy for the winner of the first race of the day, named the “Eddie Wrack” in honor of their parents’ horse. The Phelans brought along with them the navy blue and gold silks worn by jockey Carl Hanford in the track’s inaugural race. Also joining the presentation was Revere resident Buddy Marino, who was in attendance on Opening Day in 1935.

John Tomasello, whose family’s construction company built the track in, was also recognized in a winner’s circle ceremony.

“It was a great day and we were delighted to share it with such a great crowd,” said Chip Tuttle, Chief Operating Officer of Suffolk Downs. “It was nice to welcome back some old friends and salute the contributions they have made to Suffolk Downs. It was a fitting salute to our 75-year legacy.”

Built by 3,000 workers in just 62 days, the historic track has been a showcase for some of the most famous names in Thoroughbred racing history, including Seabiscuit, Whirlaway, John Henry, Cigar and Skip Away.

The track’s rich tradition extends beyond Thoroughbred racing. On August 18th, 1966, the Beatles took the stage on the racetrack for an historic performance, one of their last official concerts as a group. Over 25,000 fans packed the house to witness what would prove to be the Beatles’ final Boston appearance.

Solari Island made a bold late rally from the four-path to prevail by ¾ of a length in Saturday's featured allowance race, completing the distance of about one mile in 1:42 3/5 over a firm turf course.

Ridden by Hector Ramos for his second win on the card and trained by John Pimental, the three-year-old daughter of Deputy Wild Cat earned her second career victory from five starts.

Solari Island returned $6.00, 4.20 and 2.80. Oh Mandie paid $4.60 and 3.00 while Saganaki returned $2.40.

Jockey David Amiss rode three winners on Wednesday's nine-race card at Suffolk Downs.

Amiss started the day with a narrow decision aboard Nana's Hope ($5.20) in the fourth race. In the sixth, he teamed up with Hall of Fame trainer Nick Zito for a maiden win with 1-2 favorite Mined Over Matter ($3.00). In the seventh, he guided Rob the Banker ($17.00) to victory from off the pace.

Amiss is now in a three-way tie for third in the jockey standings with Dyn Panell and Winston Thompson with 23 wins each.

Front-running Osterville rolled to an impressive 5 ¼ length victory in Tuesday's featured allowance race, completing five furlongs over a fast main track in :58 3/5.

Ridden by David Amiss for trainer Larry Mason, the four-year-old gelded son of Alke was making his first start since November and earned his fifth local victory.

Osterville returned $4.80, 2.80 and 3.00. Travelin John Paul paid $3.00 and 3.00 while Flashy Street returned $4.20.

Ask Queenie rallied from off the pace to prevail by 2 ½ lengths in Monday's $50,000 Isadorable Stakes for Massachusetts-bred fillies and mares, completing the six furlong race in 1:13 3/5.

Ridden by Tammi Piermarini for trainer Lori Lockhart, the nine-year-old daughter of Key Contender recorded the 19th state-bred stakes win of her 59-race career. It is her fifth win in the Isadorable, having captured it from 2005-2007 and again in 2009.

"She's just an awesome filly, " said Piermarini. "She knows where the wire is. She's a professional athlete like myself."

Ask Queenie, sent off as the 1-5 favorite, returned $2.40 and 2.20. Southoftheborder closed well for second and paid $3.80.There was no show wagering.

Also on the card, jockey Carlos Quinones rode three winners the nine-race program at Suffolk Downs and is currently seventh in the jockey standings with 13 wins for the season.

Quinones started the day with a 21-½ length romp aboard Puttingonthemist ($3.40) for trainer John Rigattieri. In the third race, he teamed up with trainer Archie Ricciardi and guided Doinitwithstyle ($3.60) to a maiden victory. In the fifth, he went gate-to-wire aboard Gambler's Honour ($3.40) for Timothy Kirby.

In 2009, Quinones was honored with a special achievement award from the New England Turf Writers Association for his outstanding season where he finished third in the standings with a total of 80 victories.

Mr. Meso sat off the pace and made a strong late rally to take the $50,000 Rise Jim Stakes for Massachusetts-breds by one length, completing six furlongs in 1:12 1/5 over a fast track.

Ridden by Hector Ramos for trainer Joseph McFarlane, the ten-year-old son of Mesopotamia was making his first start since being claimed by the New England Stallion Station in May. This stakes win was his fifth career stakes win and 23rd lifetime victory.

"There was so much speed in the race, " said Ramos. "I just took him back and when I asked him, the race was over. He is a nice, classy horse."

Mr. Meso returned $11.20, 6.80 and 4.40. Multiple New England champion Ask Queenie paid $8.40 and 4.60. Sultan's Price returned $9.20.

Western Tease, New England's champion three-year-old in 2009, remained undefeated from five starts with a 7 ½ length romp in his four-year-old debut in Wednesday's featured race at Suffolk Downs, completing six furlongs in 1:11 3/5 over a fast track.

Ridden by David Amiss for trainer William Sienkewicz, the four-year-old bay son of West Acre returned $7.60, 3.60 and 3.40. Favored Granted Ruler paid $3.20 and 3.00. Flashy Wonder returned $4.60.

Jockey Dyn Panell rode three winners on Monday's nine-race card at Suffolk Downs and is now tied for fourth place with David Amiss in the jockey standings with fifteen wins each.

Panell started off the day with an 11-¾ length romp aboard Cody Monster ($3.00) in the opener. He then teamed up with trainer John Rigattieri to sweep the late double with Lion's Maddy ($9.80) and West Bay ($3.00).

Jockey Tammi Piermarini extended her lead in the jockey standings with a three wins on Saturday's nine race card at Suffolk Downs. She now tops the standings with 28 wins, eight ahead of Hector Ramos.

Piermarini started off the day with a win in the opener aboard Summit's High Noon and swept the early double with a 3-½ length win with Copelan County ($9.20). The double returned $26.20. In the sixth race, she guided 1-2 favorite Winning Image ($3.00) to an eight-length romp.

Piermarini earned leading rider honors in 2007.

Dyn Panell rode four winners on Wednesday's nine race card at Suffolk Downs and is now in fifth in the jockey standings with ten wins for the season. His win percentage of 25% is the second-highest among the leading riders.

Panell started his four-win day in the second race with a 6-¾-length victory aboard Ferrous ($11.60). In the sixth and seventh races, he made consecutive trips to the winner's circle with trainer John Rigattieri with His Sisters Mister ($7.00) and West Bay ($2.60). In the eighth race, he guided Saganaki ($13.20) to a minor upset win on the grass.

David Amiss rode four winners on Monday's eight race card at Suffolk Downs and is currently fourth in the jockey standings with ten wins from ten days of live racing.

Amiss started the day by sweeping the early daily double with front-running victories aboard Markswayornoway ($4.00) and West Texas ($6.40). In the fifth, he guided Aunt Rutchie ($5.40) to an impressive 16-¼ length maiden win.

In the eighth race, Amiss was aboard Smoke King ($18.40) for a dead heat for the win with favorite A Fast Reb ($2.60).

Apprentice jockey Jorge Fuller Vargas, son of former New England jockeys Abby Fuller and Jorge Vargas, recorded the first win of his career on Saturday at Suffolk Downs before an appreciative crowd of 6,813.

After trailing the field for the first half-mile, Vargas improved position aboard Morgan, a three-year-old filly, before surging past the leaders in deep stretch to post a three-length victory in the day’s third race, a maiden claiming event for three-year-olds and up contested at one mile over the fast main track. Morgan covered the mile in 1:44.46 and paid $11.40, 4.20 and 3.00.

“It feels great,” said the 23-year-old Vargas. “It was especially nice to do it at Suffolk Downs.”

Vargas’s mother Abby gained national acclaim in 1985 while sweeping New York’s filly triple crown aboard Hall of Famer Mom’s Command for her father Peter. Vargas’s father Jorge was a longtime journeyman rider on the New England circuit, capturing four meet titles at Suffolk Downs.

Live racing resumes on Monday. First post time is 12:45 p.m.

Southern Rainbow, New England's champion older male in 2008, made his 2010 debut a winning one with a one-length victory in Tuesday's featured allowance race, completing six furlongs in 1:10 4/5 over a fast track.

Trained by Charles Assimakopoulos and ridden by Hector Ramos, the six-year-old son of Thunderello hooked up with 2009's champion older male Riversrunrylee and dueled through demanding fractions of :22 1/5 and :45 2/5 before putting away that rival and holding off a late run from Lucky You.

Southern Rainbow returned $4.40, 2.60 and 2.20. Lucky You paid $4.00 and 2.40 while Riversrunrylee returned $2.60.

Our Sun posted a new course record in Monday's seventh race, stopping the clock in 1:39 1/5 at the distance of about one mile over a firm turf course.

The six-year-old son of Stormin Fever broke sharply and went straight to the lead under jockey Tammi Piermarini and prevailed by ¾ of a length over a resilient Macho Chick.

Trained by Marcus Vitali, Our Sun earned his first victory over the Suffolk Downs turf course and returned $12.00, 5.00 and 3.40. Favored Macho Chick paid $2.60 and 2.40 while Strategic Aim returned $9.80.

Affirmed Action won the first turf race of the season at Suffolk Downs, rallying from off the pace in the seventh race on Saturday.

The five-year-old son of Chester House saved ground into the first turn before moving outside of horses at the top of the stretch, he overtook Angel of House in the final eight of mile, winning by a length under jockey Hector Ramos, covering the 7 1/2 furlongs over a firm course in 1:33 4/5.

Trained by Tom McCooey, Affirmed Action has now won four of 26 career races for earnings of $60,859.

*Mark Phillips, champion apprentice jockey of the 2004 Suffolk Downs meeting, won his first race in the United States in more than five years in race six, scoring aboard Ninety Five for trainer George Saccardo.

A native of Dublin, Ireland, the 24-year-old journeyman jockey spent time riding in Australia and the United Arab Emirates over the last five years.

Jockey Luis Garcia guided Sure Money to an upset win in Wednesday's ninth race at Suffolk Downs, returning $258.60 on a $2 wager.

Making his first start since July of last year for trainer Odin Londono, Jr., the seven-year-old gelded son of Halo's and Horns made a wide move from off the pace to prevail by 1 ¾ lengths over heavy favorite Irish Blast,

Sure Money returned $258.60, 53.80 and 30.80.

Jockey Tammi Piermarini enjoyed her third double-win day in a row on Sunday at Suffolk Downs in front of 10,122 fans enjoying the Phantom Gourmet Safari Day festivities.

In the second race, Piermarini guided Listowel Boy ($8.60) to victory and followed that up in sixth with a narrow win aboard True Believer ($4.80).

Piermarini, the leading rider in 2007, returned to the saddle on Opening Day, May 15, just one month after giving birth to her third child. She currently tops the jockey standings with six wins.

The Phantom Gourmet Safari was created 21 years ago by longtime Boston sports radio personality Eddie Andelman. The event benefits the Joey Fund and Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Over the last two decades, the Safari has generated more than $3.25 million for these charities.

Live racing resumes on Wednesday. Post time 12:45.

The New England Turf Writers Association has elected its Hall of Fame class of 2010, which will be honored along with the 2009 NETWA award winners at the organization’s 68th Annual Awards Dinner on Thursday, July 29 at the Danversport Yacht Club in Danvers, MA.

The class consists of 1983 Massachusetts Handicap winner Let Burn, trainer Bruce G. Smith, jockey Denise Boudrot, owner and breeder Charles Assimakopoulos of Yasou Stable Trust and reporter and handicapper Gerry Sullivan.

Known more for his sprinting ability, Let Burn went gate-to-wire to win the 1983 MassCap (Grade II) on his way to earning New England Horse of the Year honors. Trained by Bill Perry for Scorpio Stable, Let Burn won half of his 24 career starts, recording nine victories from 17 starts at Suffolk Downs. A month and a half after winning the MassCap, Let Burn finished second in the Suffolk Downs Sprint Handicap (Grade III). After a setback forced Let Burn to the sidelines for over two years, he finally returned to the races in the winter of 1985, competing at the allowance level at Suffolk. He went out on top, winning the final race of his career in February of 1986.

Smith trained in New England for over 40 years and was the recipient of the Sam McCracken Memorial Award for lifetime achievement in 1990. He captured three meet titles at Suffolk Downs over the course of his career. Upon his death in 1992, Suffolk Downs introduced the Bruce G. Smith Memorial Stakes.

Boudrot was a trailblazer for women jockeys, becoming the first to win a riding title at a major thoroughbred racetrack, recording 94 wins in 92 racing days in the fall of 1974 as a 22-year-old apprentice at Suffolk Downs. She earned a Special Achievement Award from the NETWA in 1975, a year in which she won a personal best 177 races. She rode her first race at Rockingham Park in July of 1972 and rode her last race in 1985. Her biggest victory was in the 1984 Governor's Handicap at Suffolk Downs aboard Sir Quasar. Boudrot lost her battle with cancer on May 19 of this year.

The Assimakopoulos family’s Yasou Stable Trust has been a dominant force in New England racing for many years. Since 1992, the Yasou Stable Trust has been leading owner of the year at Suffolk Downs on seven occasions, which includes double-digit individual meet titles. Charles Assimakopoulos has been named NETWA’s trainer of the year three times. Under the leadership of Charles and his son John, the Yasou Stable Trust has had numerous New England Champions over the years, including Kayla’s A Gem, Milky Way Guy and Prolanzier.

For more than a quarter of a century, Gerry Sullivan, better known as “Chalk,” a name that became known nationwide, was the writer and handicapper for both the Boston Herald and Boston Traveler. His daily stories and handicap picks appeared in the morning Herald and were revised after the scratches and track conditions were posted for the evening Traveler, which was sold at tracks throughout New England. The NETWA’s award for outstanding trainer was named in his honor in 1993.

The names of this year's inductees will be added to a plaque that is on permanent display in the New England Thoroughbred racing exhibit at the Sports Museum located in the TD Banknorth Garden.

The panel of voters consisted of current active NETWA members. A two-thirds majority among the voters was required for election.

Tickets for the awards dinner are $60 each and tables of ten are available for $600. To purchase tickets, call 617 568-3220.

For 13 years, Denise (Boudrot) rode the New England thoroughbred racing circuit, winning over 1,000 races. She earned the nickname "Longshot Lady" and in the fall of 1974, the 22-year-old became the first woman to win a riding title at a major thoroughbred track – Suffolk Downs. Retiring in 1985, she settled down to a simpler and safer life marrying Roland Hopkins, a newspaper publisher who also owned racehorses.

In 1972, Denise rode in her first horse race. She was a pioneer for female jockeys, at a time when there were very few of them at the track. Horse trainers were reluctant to employ a female rider. They were considered the weaker sex. But that attitude changed with the women’s liberation movement. Denise proved that she could also get to the track before sunrise, put in 18-hour days, and ride nine mounts a day. Plus, she was a winner. Recently the New England Turf Writers Association elected Denise to its Hall of Fame. Denise is the fifth jockey recognized by the NETWA with this honor, and the only woman.

Denise died May 19 at her farm in Grafton, Vermont due to a long illness.

Denise formerly lived in Duxbury, Mass. and had a farm in Ocala, Florida.

A private ceremony will be celebrated in Vermont on Memorial Day.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Springfield Humane Society, 401 Skitchewaug Trail, Springfield, VT 05156-8820 or the Norris Cotton Cancer Center at Dartmouth Hitchcock, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756-0001.

In addition to her husband Rolly, stepdaughters Tracey and Kathi and stepsons Stephen and Rock, son-in-laws Bryce and David, Denise leaves 6 grandchildren: Daryl, Delia, Gage, Tyler, Jayson and Jeffrey, and many friends, relatives and her beloved horses and dogs.

Suffolk Downs opened its 75th anniversary racing season Saturday with a 10-race program in which female jockeys combined for five wins. A crowd of 11,212 attended.

“Our 75th anniversary season is off to a great start and it’s nice to see so many people having such a good time,” said Chip Tuttle, Suffolk Downs’ Chief Operating Officer.

In the first race, Tammi Piermarini guided I Testify ($10.80) to victory. She was back in the winner's circle in the third race with Tropical Trip ($7.80). Piermarini, the leading rider at Suffolk Downs in 2007, was back in the saddle just one month after giving birth to her third child.

In the second race, Suffolk Downs veteran Jill Jellison rode Nudara ($4.80) to a maiden win for trainer Bobby Raymond. She and Raymond teamed up again in the fourth race with Chillin Dylan ($7.20).

In the eighth race, Jacqueline Davis, a 23-year-old newcomer to Suffolk Downs, was aboard Nicoletti ($15.20) for a 4-½ victory. Davis, whose father Robbie had a successful riding career, is a graduate of Dorchester-native Chris McCarron's North American Riding Academy.

Suffolk Downs will celebrate its 75th anniversary throughout the season. Built by 3,000 workers in just 62 days, the historic track opened on July 10, 1935 and has been a showcase for some of the most famous names in Thoroughbred racing history, including Seabiscuit, Whirlaway, John Henry, Cigar and Skip Away.

Opening Day began with a national anthem presentation featuring the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department Mounted Unit and honor guard. Last November, Suffolk Downs, the Fields Family Foundation and the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) established a home for retired racehorses at the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Farm, where inmates from the Plymouth County Correctional Facility care for the horses as part of the facility’s extensive vocational program. Suffolk Downs patrons contributed nearly $4,000 to the TRF on Opening Day through the sale of season passes.

The racing schedule for the next two weeks will consist of two race days each. These dates are Wednesday, May 19; Sunday, May 23 (Phantom Gourmet Safari); Wednesday, May 26; and Saturday, May 29. Starting Memorial Day, May 31, the track will conduct a Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday-Saturday racing schedule until the conclusion of the meet on Saturday,

Opening Day of the 2010 live racing season at Suffolk Downs is this Saturday, May 15, Preakness Stakes Day. Gates open at 10:00 a.m. and first post time for the nine-race program is 1:15 p.m. The track is offering free admission as it opens the gates for its 75th anniversary season.

In addition to live racing, the track will simulcast the 135th running of the Preakness Stakes from Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, MD, where Kentucky Derby winner Super Saver will continue his quest for racing’s elusive Triple Crown. Wagering on the Preakness Stakes will be available both Friday and Saturday.

On Opening Day, patrons can purchase a 2010 season pass for just $5, with all proceeds supporting the track’s Thoroughbred retirement programs. Patrons can have their picture taken with a racehorse and jockey at the Fan Photo Experience located at the main Clubhouse entrance (12:45-2:45, weather permitting). Family Fun activities will take place near the outdoor playground. The Grandstand apron will feature a variety of food and beverage options, including Firefly's BBQ and The Sausage Guy.

After Opening Day, the following two weeks of live racing will consist of two race days each. These dates are Wednesday, May 19; Sunday, May 23 (Phantom Gourmet Safari); Wednesday, May 26; and Saturday, May 29. Starting Memorial Day, May 31, the track will conduct a Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday-Saturday racing schedule until the conclusion of the meet on Saturday, November 13. Usual first race post time is 12:45 p.m.

Suffolk Downs will celebrate its 75th anniversary throughout the season. Built by 3,000 workers in just 62 days, the historic track opened on July 10, 1935 and has been a showcase for some of the most famous names in Thoroughbred racing history.

“We are very proud of our 75 years of history,” said Bill Mulrow, Chairman of Suffolk Downs. “This is a great opportunity for us to pay tribute to the significant events that have taken place here while saluting the thousands of dedicated employees who have made it all possible over the years.”

The legendary Seabiscuit first raced at the track in its inaugural season and would return in 1937 to win the track’s signature race, the Massachusetts Handicap. Champion racehorses War Admiral, Whirlaway, John Henry and Cigar have all competed at Suffolk Downs, as have Hall of Fame jockeys Eddie Arcaro, Chris McCarron, Angel Cordero and Jerry Bailey.

The track’s rich tradition extends beyond Thoroughbred racing. On August 18, 1966, the Beatles took the stage on the racetrack for an historic performance, one of their last official concerts as a group. Over 25,000 fans packed the house to witness what would prove to be the Beatles’ final Boston appearance.

Historic Track Celebrating its 75th Anniversary

The 2010 live racing season at Suffolk Downs will begin Saturday, May 15 and consist of 101 racing days, the track announced today as it introduced its complete racing schedule for its 75th anniversary season.

Opening Day is scheduled on Preakness Stakes Day this year, two weeks later than the track’s traditional opening on Kentucky Derby Day. First post time on Opening Day is 1:15 PM.

“As more and more of the New England horsemen and horses winter in Florida, Delaware and Pennsylvania where purses are enhanced due to expanded gaming, extending our opening for even a couple weeks makes it easier for us to get top quality horses to return here,” said Chip Tuttle, Suffolk Downs’ Chief Operating Officer. “Based on the recent legislative action in Massachusetts, we look forward to our 75th anniversary season with a renewed sense of optimism for the future.”

The track will be hosting Boston’s Biggest and Best Kentucky Derby Party on Saturday, May 1. In addition to the standard simulcast areas, fans will be able to watch the Derby and other races on large outdoor television screens as part of a festival featuring live bands and an assortment of food and beverages.

After Opening Day, the following two weeks of live racing will consist of two race days each. These dates are Wednesday, May 19; Sunday, May 23 (Phantom Gourmet Safari); Wednesday, May 26; and Saturday, May 29. Starting Memorial Day, May 31, the track will conduct a Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday-Saturday racing schedule until the conclusion of the meet on Saturday, November 13. Usual first race post time is 12:45 p.m.

For the start of the 2010 racing season, Suffolk Downs projects average daily overnight purses consistent with 2009’s level of $90,000 per day. The track will announce its 2010 stakes program in the coming weeks.

Suffolk Downs will celebrate its 75th anniversary throughout the season. Built by 3,000 workers in just 62 days, the historic track opened on July 10, 1935 and has been a showcase for some of the most famous names in Thoroughbred racing history.

The legendary Seabiscuit first raced at the track in its inaugural season and would return in 1937 to win the track’s signature race, the Massachusetts Handicap. Champion racehorses War Admiral, Whirlaway, John Henry and Cigar have all competed at Suffolk Downs, as have Hall of Fame jockeys Eddie Arcaro, Chris McCarron, Angel Cordero and Jerry Bailey.

The track’s rich tradition extends beyond Thoroughbred racing. On August 18, 1966, the Beatles took the stage on the racetrack for an historic performance, one of their last official concerts as a group. Over 25,000 fans packed the house to witness what would prove to be the Beatles’ final Boston appearance.

As of February 1, we will be open for simulcasting six days a week: Monday, and Wednesday through Sunday. We will remain closed on Tuesdays until further notice. To view our complete daily simulcasting menu, click here. The daily simulcast schedule is also available by calling 617 568-3216 and selecting option 1.

As of Saturday, January 23, we have resumed simulcasting from Gulfstream, Santa Anita, Fairgrounds, Golden Gate, Laurel and Oaklawn after the MidAtlantic Cooperative, of which Suffolk Downs is a member, reached a new agreement with TrackNet Media Group, which negotiates the simulcasting rights for these and other tracks. We thank you for your patience and apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced.

Leading the Suffolk Downs group was Gerry Oberle (Revere, MA), finishing 43rd out of 302 contestants. Jamie Sultan finished in 45th place and Kim Leisey wound up in 54th.

Leisey and Sultan finished first and second, respectively, in a qualifying tournament at Suffolk Downs on August 8, 2009 to earn their trips to Las Vegas, while Oberle took top honors in a tournament on October 31 of last year to gain entry into the event.

Suffolk Downs will be celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2010. We are currently searching for photos, video footage and memorabilia from the construction and opening of the track in 1935. Additionally, we are trying to locate any of the 3,000 workers who helped build Suffolk Downs, as well as people who were here on the track’s first opening day as an employee, fan, horseman or otherwise.

If you or any of your friends and family members can help us with our search and would like to share your personal experiences at Suffolk Downs with us, please contact us at publicity@suffolkdowns.com or by calling 617 568-3222.

Thank you for your assistance and we look forward to celebrating our 75th anniversary with you.

The New England Turf Writers Association has selected its champions and award winners for the 2009 racing season. The annual awards dinner is scheduled to take place in July of 2010. The honorees are:

2-year-old filly – Oceans of Honey
2-year-old male – Lovethatdirtywater
3-year-old filly – Sassy City
Robert M. O’Malley Memorial Award – 3-year-old colt – Western Tease
Older female – Bill's Jewell
James R. Bishop Memorial Award - Older male – Riversrunrylee
Joseph E. Carney Memorial Award – Turf male – Dadsfourwheeldrive
Turf female - PJ's Lil Toni
Sprinter – Camacthmagnificent
Cliff Sundberg Memorial Award - New England-bred – Ask Queenie
Special Achievement – Giuseppe Iadisernia, Carlos Quinones
Eli Chiat Memorial Award – Outstanding Jockey – Orlando Bocachica
Gerry Sullivan Memorial Award – Outstanding Trainer – Rafael Ramos

The recipients of the Sam McCracken Memorial Award for lifetime contributions to New England racing and the Lou Smith Memorial Award for yearly achievement will be announced at a later date.

The winner of the James B. Moseley Award for Horse of the Year will be revealed at the awards dinner. The NETWA’s Hall of Fame Class of 2010 will be announced in the spring and will also be honored at the awards dinner.

The New England Turf Writers Association elected its officers for 2010 at their recent fall meeting.

Suffolk Downs racing analyst and publicist Jessica Paquette has been elected President after serving as Vice President the past two years. Paquette, 24, succeeds Christian Teja, Suffolk Downs Vice President of Marketing and Communications, who held the office since 2004. Teja will now serve as Vice President. Chip Bott, track photographer at Suffolk Downs, is the new Secretary/Treasurer.

Paquette, a lifelong Thoroughbred racing enthusiast and a native of Lowell, MA, was a member of the “Kids to the Cup” program as a teenager and joined the Suffolk Downs staff in 2006 as a track handicapper and publicist.

Francis “Skip” McDonnell, a longtime horse owner at Suffolk Downs, died Monday at the age of 74.

In 2007, McDonnell was named the recipient of the Sam McCracken Memorial Award for lifetime achievement in New England racing by the New England Turf Writers’ Association.

McDonnell bred and owned numerous New England champions, including Cimarron Secret, Nana’s Toy and Sandy Gator. McDonnell and trainer George Handy were jointly honored by the NETWA with the 2001 Lou Smith Award for yearly achievement in New England racing.

One of the region’s greatest supporters of Thoroughbred racing, McDonnell consistently brought quality racehorses from his farm in Florida to New England where he could go to the track and watch them run in person.

Visiting hours are from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Sunday, November 29 at the Gray Funeral Home, 24 Winnacunnet Rd., Hampton, MA 03842. Funeral mass on Monday, November 30 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Theresa Church, 815 Central Rd., Rye Beach, NH 03871.

The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) and Suffolk Downs, through the support of the Fields Family Foundation, have established a home for retired racehorses at the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Farm in Plymouth, MA, where inmates from the Plymouth County Correctional Facility will care for the horses as part of the facility’s extensive vocational program.

On Tuesday, November 10, four retired thoroughbreds from Suffolk Downs arrived at the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s Second Chances at Plymouth County Sheriff’s Farm, where they were brought to their new stalls in a barn renovated by inmates. They will be joined by additional retirees in the future.

“This facility is the perfect addition to our program with Suffolk Downs and our partnership with the Fields Family Foundation,” said Diana Pikulski, Executive Director of the TRF. “Now, the Suffolk horses can give back to the community in which they race. We are thrilled to have this new facility be here at the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Farm. The sheriff and all of his staff exude the very sentiments that make the TRF program work so well. This is about horses and people helping each other.”

Founded in 1982, the TRF’s mission is to save Thoroughbred horses no longer able to compete on the racetrack from possible neglect, abuse and slaughter. In pursuing this mission, the TRF has found an ancillary purpose to provide much needed and successful programs for incarcerated men, women and juveniles. This unique program began at the Wallkill Correctional Facility in New York and has been replicated at facilities in Kentucky, Florida, South Carolina, Iowa, Indiana, Virginia, Maryland and now Massachusetts.

“We are pleased and honored to be the first correctional agency in Massachusetts to participate in this worthy program,” said Plymouth County Sheriff Joseph D. McDonald, Jr. “This program is appropriately named as it will offer a true ‘second chance’ or new lease on life to both the retired Thoroughbred horses and our inmate trainees. To me, this is what our correctional mission is all about.”

The Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department operates the 90-acre Plymouth County Farm in Plymouth at the site of the old jail. The farm was placed in conservancy in October 2008 as a living reminder of Plymouth’s agricultural heritage. The farm has experienced a tremendous resurgence as a horticultural center and petting zoo under Sheriff McDonald, while at the same time serving as a vocational program for inmates housed at the Plymouth County Correctional Facility.

Led by principal owner and horse enthusiast Richard Fields, Suffolk Downs has demonstrated a commitment to the lifetime care of Thoroughbreds once their racing careers are over, becoming the first racetrack in the country to implement a strict anti-slaughter policy for owners and trainers with horses stabled on its grounds.

“The horses are the real stars of our great sport and they deserve to be taken care of appropriately when they are retired from racing,” said Fields. “I applaud both the TRF and the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department for their hard work and cooperation in making this day possible. I would also like to thank the Massachusetts State Racing Commission for its help in establishing this great partnership. It’s great to know that Suffolk Downs horses have a safe place to go right in their home state.”

The Fields Family Foundation, founded by Fields, provides support and resources to charitable organizations, focusing on the needs of children, law enforcement, medical research, and equine causes throughout the United States.

Orlando Bocachica captured the first riding title of his career, amassing 111 wins at Suffolk Downs over the course of the track's 101-day meet that concluded on Saturday, November 7.

Bocachica finished 16 wins ahead of last year's titleholder Winston Thompson. Bocachica won with 19% of his mounts for earnings of $996,684.

John Rigattieri continued his reign atop the trainer standings, earning his sixth consecutive title. Rigattieri saddled 58 winners from 261 starters (22%). Rafael Ramos was second with 50 wins.

Aurora Springs Stable was the leading owner for the second time in three years, making 30 appearances in the winner's circle.

Gerard Oberle of Revere, MA took top honors in the qualifying tournament held Saturday, October 31 at Suffolk Downs to earn a spot in the DRF/NTRA National Handicapping Championship, which will be held January 29-30, 2010 at Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa in Las Vegas.

Oberle, who also qualified for the 2004 national championship, finished with a total mythical bankroll of $125.90, besting Christopher Bogdanski of East Boston by a mere 50 cents. Oberle, who will turn 84 on November 27, witnessed both Seabiscuit's (1937) and Whirlaway's (1942) MassCap victories at the East Boston oval.

Prize money was determined by the number of entrants. The tournament drew 164 entrants from eight states. The entry fee was $60, creating a total pool of $9,840, all of which was returned to the players. The winner received 50 percent, while the runner-up got 20 percent.

Players were required to place mythical $2 win and place wagers on one horse in each of 15 pre-selected races from Suffolk Downs, Belmont Park, Keeneland and Oak Tree at Santa Anita. All selections had to be submitted prior to the first race of the tournament and there was no cap on prices.

Cash prizes were awarded to the top 10 finishers:

NAME, RESIDENCE - BANKROLL
1. Gerard Oberle, Revere, MA - $125.90
2. Christopher Bogdanski, East Boston, MA - $125.40
3. Jeff Kingsbury, Shrewsbury, MA - $124.40
4. David Small, Merrimac, MA - $121.40
5. James Carroll, Stoneham, MA - $114.70
6. John Mannarino, Tewksbury, MA - $111.00
7. Steve Wilcox, Hudson, NH - $101.60
8. James Wakely, Medfield, MA - $96.10
9. John D'Albenzio, Saugus, MA - $93.40
10. Kenny Timperley, Sanbornville, NH - $92.40

Oberle will join Kim Leisey of Nahant, MA and Jamie Sultan of Boston in representing Suffolk Downs at the National Championship. Leisey and Sultan qualified in a tournament held August 8.

Sundance Richie and Orlando Bocachica pulled off a front-running upset victory in Saturday's $30,000 Michel Lapensee Massachusetts Stallion Stakes, drawing off by 2 ¾ lengths and completing the mile and seventy-yard race in 1:44 2/5 over a fast track.

Trained by Edward Stone, the five-year-old son of Sundance Ridge earned his first win of the year and returned $29.20, 11.40 and 3.80. Southoftheborder, one of two fillies or mares in the field, closed for second and paid $6.00 and 2.40. Favored Gorgeous Silk returned $2.20.

The victory was the third consecutive win on the nine-race card for jockey Orlando Bocachica. In the sixth race, he guided Bandit Nailhead ($5.40) to the winners' circle and in the seventh race was aboard S.M.W. Kaitlyn ($5.60) for a four-length score.

Bocachica currently tops the jockey standings with 108 wins for the season.

Thousands of walkers – including individuals with autism, their families and friends – joined together at Suffolk Downs on Sunday, October 18 to raise much-needed funds for critical scientific research and to increase autism awareness at the 9th Annual Greater Boston Walk Now For Autism.

Walkers braved cold temperatures, strong winds and a driving rain as they circled the one-mile racetrack that surely would have been classified as sloppy if it were a racing day. The event also included a family resource fair and various forms of family entertainment, including live music, games and other activities for kids.

All proceeds from the event benefit Autism Speaks, the nation’s leading autism advocacy organization. Established in 2000, the Autism Speaks Walk Now for Autism events are the signature fundraising events for Autism Speaks and have attracted hundreds of thousands of walkers worldwide who have raised tens of millions of dollars for autism research. Suffolk Downs has hosted the Greater Boston walk since 2007.

Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person’s ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by extreme behavioral challenges. Another child is diagnosed every 20 minutes.

Full siblings Mount Wilton and East Coaster won consecutive races on Wednesday. Both horses are by Graeme Hall out of the Our Emblem mare Eastlynne and were bred in Florida by Eugene Melnyk.

In the sixth race, Mount Wilton earned his first local victory with a two-and-three-quarter length triumph. Ridden by Carlos Quinones and trained by John Rigattieri, the five-year-old gelding returned $9.80, 4.80 and 3.80.

East Coaster followed that up in the seventh race with a two-length score under Yamil Rosario. It was the four-year-old filly's seventh local victory for New England Hall of Fame trainer George Handy. East Coaster paid $9.40, 4.20 and 3.40.

The Graeme Hall victory parade continued in the eighth when Gramatic ($5.40) rolled to an authoritative win. Gramatic is a three-year-old daughter of Formatic and was ridden by Orlando Bocachica for trainer Charles Assimakopoulos.

Riversrunrylee made every call a winning one with a 1 ¼ length triumph in Monday's Rudy Baez Stakes at Suffolk Downs, completing the mile and seventy yard race in 1:41 2/5 over a fast track and holding off a determined late charge from Delosvientos.

Trained by Juan Camilo and ridden by Pedro Gonzalez, the five-year-old gelded son of Outflanker earned his fourth win of the year and second local victory of the season.

"I know this horse very well," said Gon