Greg Merton Reaches 6000 Wins

February 18, 2026

Story: by Shawn Wiles
Photo Credit: MJBL Photography

It would be hard to be more Monticello than Greg Merton, he jogged his first horse at 6 and was in the business full time by the time he was 16 at the famed Catskill Mountain oval. This afternoon, the 52 year horsemen reached another milestone in his long career, his 6000th win aboard Lanas Desire in 1:57.3 – for trainer Art Green.

He and his siblings (Michael, Thomas and Veronica) were also born into the industry, his father Robert was the Track Superintendent at Monticello Raceway for decades.

The Monticello native sports some impressive numbers in his 37 year driving career, Greg’s first drive was in 1989 and recorded 3 wins in his first year of driving. Greg eclipsed the Million Dollar mark in driving earnings 16 times in his stellar career, his best year was 2017 when he drove winner for purses of $2,934.479. When you take into consideration that the majority of the tracks he raced at were not premier tracks, the fact that he broke the Million Dollar Barrier driving primarily at Monticello and Plainridge is a testimate of his ability and durability. His best year for wins was in 2005 with 352 wins and has amasses total lifetime earnings of $30,049,127. Greg is a 2 time leading Dash winning driving at Monticello and has won 2 titles at Plainridge Park. Greg has reached his 5,000 win five years ago at Monticello.

Following the win, Greg was greeted in the winner’s circle from his fellow horsemen and friends.

On to win #7,000