History was made at Freehold Raceway on opening day, Aug. 27, as 86-year-old Tony Dandeo became the oldest driver to win a race in New Jersey harness racing history.
Dandeo was named to drive Stick That Lip Out in the 10th race for owner August Santore and trainer John Wyatt, according to a press release from the harness track.
Dandeo immediately sent his drive to the front and opened up a long lead against the other, more inexperienced horses.
As the horses turned for home, favored Never Not Dancing and Devious Delight both closed ground, but no one was able to catch Stick That Lip Out, who crossed the line two lengths in front. The final time was 1:59.2.
The win was the 234th in Dandeo’s career, which has spanned several decades. His most recent win came on April 15, 2016, when he guided Mickey Blu to victory.
Dandeo, who turned 86 on Aug. 21, broke the record for oldest driver to win a harness race in New Jersey. The previous record was held by George McCandless, who drove Kehms Scooter to victory at Freehold Raceway on Oct. 20, 1994 at age 83.
