Niatross knockout claiming series underway

HAMBURG, NY. — King Otra returned to the throne and the pacers started eliminations in the Niatross Knockout Claiming Series to highlight the harness racing action at Buffalo Raceway Saturday night (February 7).

 

In the $9,500 Open II Pace, Nothingbutmach (Shawn Gray) did the dirty work, setting the fractions of 29.0, 58.1 and 1:27.1. But in stretch, it was the pocket-sitting King Otra (Billy Dobson) who reaped the reward as he was able to stick a nose in front at the wire. A 28.1 final panel helped King Otra to the narrow victory over the tough luck runner up Nothingbutmach while Scofanman (David McNeight II) took the show spot. The winning time was 1:55.2 over the good track.

 

It was the second win in four starts this season for King Otra, who is owned by Barbara Russo and trained by Neal Russo. It upped his 2015 earnings to $12,160 and $215,458 lifetime.

 

The Niatross Knockout Claiming Series began with six divisions being contested.

 

One Chaser (Kevin Cummings) produced the fastest time and the largest win price, going the mile in 1:57.3 and returning $15.80 to his backers.

 

Delightful Caitlin (Brett Crawford) went the mile in 1:58.3 to win her division and give her supporters a $6.70 return.

 

Goddess's Justin (Cummings) toured the Hamburg track in 1:58.4 and paid $2.80 while Dedalos (Drew Monti) pulled a mild $11.80 upset with a 1:58.2 winning mark.

 

Nighthawk Hall ($2.40) took an elimination for Dobson in 1:58.4 while Jettison (Cummings) took the final leg with a 1:58.3 clocking. Jettison paid $4.60.

 

The quarter-finals of the Niatross Knockout Claiming Series will be held next Saturday night.

 

Racing will resume on Wednesday evening with a 13-race card scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.

 

For more information including race replays, results, upcoming promotions and the latest news, go to www.buffaloraceway.com