Monday March 16 Recap

March 16, 2026

It’s been quite a while, but this week’s Open for Fillies and Mares filled, originally with a full field of 8 contestants. Prior to post time, Premier Desirey was a Vets scratch. The morning and post time favorite was Bella Artiste, starting from the far outside. The 8 year old mare was quick off the gate, grabbing the lead from Razzin Jazz past the opening panel of 29.2, from there she clicked off splits of 1:00.2, and was ahead 2 lengths at the next station in 1:29.3. Abuelita Hanover(M. Merton) made up a ton of ground but is a little late as Bella Artiste went on the score in 1:58.4 – $ 4.90, she was driven to the win by Greg Merton, she is trained by Peter Pellegrino.

Jillian Juggs (M. Merton) extended her win streak to 4 in a row after her 2 length win in 1:57 – $2.46, she is trained by Ashlee Slugett. The top 2 leading drivers Michael and Greg Merton each had a pair of winning drives.