HAMBURG, N.Y. --- Jokerman had the last laugh in the featured $9,500 conditioned pace at Buffalo Raceway Saturday night (April 4) with a stunning upset victory in a seasonal best time of 1:55.1 over the fast track.

 

Overlooked by the betting public, Jokerman returned a hefty $27.00 to his backers after turning back the mild rally of Bakken in the race to the wire

 

It was a battle to the lead as rail-sitting Lucky Nadotremblay tussled with the parked Jokerman to a quarter in a red-hot time of 27.4. Jokerman (Jim McNeight) was finally able to clear for the lead and posted times of 56.2 and 1:25.4 from there.

 

In the race to the finish, Jokerman posted a final panel of 29.2 and that was more than enough to hold off any challenges from the remaining six horses in the field. Bakken (Ray Fisher Jr.) show some mild kick but finished a non-threatening length back while Lucky Nadotremblay (Shawn McDonough) rolled into the show position.

 

It was the fourth win in 12 starts for Jokerman and the 6-year-old gelding has now been in the money in all but one start in 2015. He is co-owned by trainer Richard Roth along with Robert and Randy Roth. Jokerman (American Ideal-Shark Tail) has now earned $29,289 this year.

 

In the first round of the Niatross Knockout Claiming 'B' Series, Secluded Island ($4.10) was the fastest winner in the five divisions with a 1:57.1 clocking. 

 

Dedalos ($3.30), who captured the Naitross 'A' Series earlier this season, took his leg with a 1:57.4 mark. 

 

Other preliminary round winners included Nora Lee ($4.00), K C Colt ($15.80) and Full Circle Spirit ($12.00). The quarter-finals will be held next Saturday night.

 

Driver Drew Monti had a four-bagger on the night and Kevin Cummings went over the 100-win plateau on the year with four victories as well.

 

Trainer Michelle Gramza had three wins.

 

The racing action will continue at Buffalo Raceway on Wednesday night with a 12-race card scheduled for 5 p.m.

 

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