Italians Take First Leg of The American – Italian Friendship Competition

May 8, 2024

On Monday May 6, Monticello Raceway welcomed the American Italian Friendship Competition Series, this long-lasting relationship has prospered for many years between the 2 Amateur Clubs, this time on American soil, they squared off in a 2-race contest with a Trot and a Pace Dash.

The first event saw the Italian reinsman take the top 3 spots as Roberto Michelotto keep the heavy favorite Ackles Hanover on stride to score in 2:01.3 – $3.10 for trainer Art Green, Stefano De Lena, driving Starrystarrynight was second followed with SOS Jewels and Matteo Zaccherini taking the show position.

The second division saw a confidant Tony Beltrami steer the pacer Sweet Ginger in a wire to wire with in 1:59 – $3.00 over a determined Major Rosita and Stefano De Lena, Scott Keppler took the show position with Believe In Angels. For Sweet Ginger it was her fourth win of the season for trainer Rick Harp, The Fred And Ginger mare is owned by Christina Klein of Monticello, NY.

Stefano De Lena representing the Italian was the leading driver with a pair of seconds in of both dashes.

Next up in the friendly competition is the second leg at Yonkers Raceway on Tuesday May 7.