Yonkers: Tattoo Artist equals all-age track record

Tattoo Artist inked his name next to Theartofconfusion A and American History in the record book at Yonkers Raceway by winning the $48,000 Open Handicap Pace on Monday night (October 18) in 1:49 3/5 to tie the all-age track record.

With Dexter Dunn in town to handle the driving, Tattoo Artist left quickly from the outside post seven and worked his way to the front prior to the 26 4/5 opening quarter. Tattoo Artist maintained the top spot to a 54 4/5 half, but Shadow Cat, driven by George Brennan, vacated the three-hole to go first-over prior to that station. All that Shadow Cat did after tipping out was spin his wheels, though, as Dunn stepped on the accelerator with Tattoo Artist and zipped a 27 second quarter to put three-quarters up in 1:21 4/5. That tempo also put pocket-sitter Dragon Said, steered by Joe Bongiorno, into retreat mode.

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Around the far turn Tattoo Artist maintained a clear lead over his foes, and although closing Funatthebeach N, with Jordan Stratton in the bike, and Belmont Major N, piloted by Tyler Buter, did gain ground through the stretch drive, it was after the result was no longer in doubt. Tattoo Artist hit the wire a length and a quarter to the good over Funatthebeach N, who was the 8-5 favorite, and Belmont Major N was the third-place finisher.

Chris Ryder trains Tattoo Artist, a 4-year-old son of He's Watching, for owners Let It Ride Stables Inc., Frank Cannon, Diamond Creek Racing, and J&T Silva Stables, LLC. This was his 18th career victory, and he has now earned $892,617. Tattoo Artist paid $5.70 to win and was atop a $20.00 exacta and a $172.00 trifecta.

Racing resumes at Yonkers on Tuesday (October 19) with first post at 7:15 p.m. Starting in the third of 12 races on the program, there will be a $1,629.12 carryover in the Pick 6.

--press release (Yonkers)--