Press Release:
Batavia, NY --- The much improved Joe Page went from last to first to win the featured $8,500 Open Handicap Trot on Friday night at Batavia Downs Casino.
With former Downs regular Sam Schillaci in town to drive for trainer Mike Delano, Joe Page settled in seventh as the field of Western New York’s best squaregaiters was led by Jack Sparrow and Jim McNeight through fractions of :29, :59.3 and 1:28.4.
Around the final turn Jack Sparrow was still the commander of the fractions but Joe Page was gaining with every stride. Down the lane it was Joe Page with all the momentum as he trotted right by Jack Sparrow to a 1-1/4 length score in 1:58.4, a nice mile on a chilly night. Jack Sparrow held on to the second spot while A Work In Progress with Ken Holliday wound up third.
Joe Cicatello owns Joe Page, a 4-year-old Mr Lavec-Well Cast gelding who recorded his fifth win of the year and raised his seasonal earnings to over $27,000.
The summer-fall meet's leading chauffeur Kevin Cummings visited the winner's circle three more times while the red-hot Jack Flanigen had a driving double including scoring with 40-1 shot Knob Hill Splash.
Racing is currently being conducted at America’s oldest lighted Harness Track every Tuesday-Wednesday-Friday and Saturday night. Post time is 7:05 p.m.
Todd Haight
Promotional Marketing Specialist
Batavia Downs Casino
Photo: Joe Page with driver Sam Schillaci defeating Jack Sparrow in Batavia Downs featured trot. Courtesy of Paul White.
