SV Photography
by David Mattice
FARMINGTON, N.Y. – Breakin the Fever narrowly held off a late challenge by longshot Bigshotinthenews to win the $50,000 Leon Reed Memorial Stakes at Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack on Friday. The bay gelding completed the six furlong sprint for older New York-breds in a time of 1:10.97. [VIDEO]
The $252,681 earner owned and trained by Debra Breed seized the front end in the early stages of the sixth race. He maintained a clear lead over his older rivals until Bigshotinthenews cut into the margin as they approached the wire. He sustained his speed to take the annual dash by a neck over his fast closing competitor.
Oscar Gomez guided the classy 3-year-old to his second stakes triumph. Gomez also directed him to a seven and one-quarter length win in the $50,000 Ontario County Stakes at FLGR on August 21.
Breakin the Fever registered his eighth victory in his 17th career start and paid $6.80, $4.70 and $4.00. Bigshotinthenews ran second at odds of 68-1 and paid $30.20 and $22.60. Baime was third and returned $3.80.
The $50,000 Leon Reed Memorial Stakes was formerly named the Wine Country Handicap which was established in 1973. The name was changed in remembrance of the Finger Lakes employee who tragically lost his life on November 19, 2005.
