86-year-old Dandeo Makes History at Freehold Friday
Posted 1215 days
History was made at Freehold Raceway on opening day (August 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. Dandeo immediately sent his drive to the front and opened up a long lead against the other, more inexperienced horses. As they 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 August 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 on October 20, 1994 at age 83.
Live racing continues at Freehold on Saturday (August 28), with a scheduled first post of 12:30 PM.
