Saying Goodbye to a Year of Records

As we enter the final hours of 2012, I look back at a historic year in both harness racing and my career. What I know is 2012 proved to be an eventful year in both harness racing and my profession. 

Captaintreacherous winning the Woodrow Wilson Final

On record sides, we had a monster pacer by the name of Captaintreacherous, who became the first two-year-old pacer since Artsplace to win the coveted Dan Patch Pacer of the Year honors. The most memorable mile coming from the Alagna trainee was when he turned for home in the Woodrow Wilson and destroyed the field in 1:49.3, increasing his lead by 7 lengths within an eighth of a mile. 

The Ron Burke stable’s famed Foiled Again also set history this year in the Canadian Pacing Derby final. Gallo Blue Chip had held the record for racing earnings in a career for 12 years as Foiled Again surpassed him in a fairy tale way, upsetting Betterthancheddar in the Canadian Pacing Derby. 

On the training side, Linda Toscano broke the gender boundaries with her prized trotter Market Share. A Hambletonian victory for Market Share made Linda Toscano the first woman to win the Hambletonian in the 87 years of the event. She also trained top open trotter Chapter Seven, who equaled Lucky Jim and Muscle Hill’s all-time World Record of 1:50.1 in the Nat Ray invitational at the Meadowlands. 

Driver Tim Tetrick in the Meadowlands
Paddock

Tim Tetrick re-wrote the record books again. A stellar stakes season aboard Captaintreacherous, Heston Blue Chip, American Jewel, Market Share, Check Me Out, Chapter Seven and Anndrovette made him the first driver to have driven seven Dan Patch winners in a season. Tetrick also led in seasonal earnings, topping the list with $18,529,676. He also won the USHWA driver of the year title and was the first driver to win four Breeders Crown events in the same year. 

The fabulous filly Check Me Out started out the 2012 summer with two world record performances, one in the Del Miller at the Big M, and the other in the Pennsylvania Sires Stakes Championship. 

With many more records to list, I also close out a fabulous year. I became the host of the Blog Talk Radio program North American Harness Update, I also continued another year at the Hambletonian Society and TwinSpires. Most importantly, I got my first taste of true journalism this summer at The Red Mile, where I did the press releases for the two weeks of Grand Circuit action. 

I especially want to thank the following; Nick Salvi, Jason Settlemoir, Darin Zoccali, Jeremey Day, Garnet Barnsdale, Frank Cotolo, Moira Fanning, Derek Simon, Robert ‘Hollywood’ Heyden and Chris Tully, all mentioned had some involvement in making this a fabulous 2012. I thank you all and I thank all the readers of The Racing Inquirer.

See you in 2013!

TRI’s Picks December 29 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Pick 4, Races 7-10, Saturday, December 29, 2012

Last night, we had one winner, Chief Karen ($13.40). If you bet any horse on our ticket that were 4-1 or up and the ticket itself, you would be down $9.60. After an odd night of $100 winners and one favorite on the 12 race card emerging victorious, we move on to a likely harder night of racing this Saturday.

$2 Play: 2,6/2,4/5/3,8 = $16

Analysis:

Race 7- (2) Four Starz Trace ships to the Big M and moves into a class against some of the best pacers at the mile oval. He is coming off of a second place finish against $50,000 Claimers at Yonkers, but has won against that same class before. He should be around mid-pack for most of the mile and find some cover to take advantage of a somewhat closing bias at the Big M. (6) Village Beat is competitive when he needs to be competitive. His most recent start was unlike him, sitting far off the pace and not getting into the race. He can leave the gate fast and travel a first over trip if needed, but he won’t get parked tonight. He should be close to the pace and find some route to take in order to reach the winners circle.

Race 8- (2) Top Of The Mark has raced two valiant miles after qualifying at Yonkers. Both miles he made some attempt to take the lead, except in his first start off of a layoff he was parked and quit badly. There is some speed in this race, so if Top Of The Mark clears the lead he’ll have some challengers. He will get shuffled back but some kind of seam should open up for him, either to the outside or inside of him, and he can storm home. (4) Go West Lucky Cam has been sharp lately. In his last start from post 6 at Yonkers, he rode the pylons and closed to finish fourth. In previous starts, he has won going wire-to-wire, finished second sitting off of the pace and third as he dueled for the top. Since there is a lot of pace in this race, he is our backup horse as he has shown success from on and off of the pace. However the race plays out, he will be somewhere on the board.

Race 9- (5) Voice Of Truth has shown consistency in his racing style. He tends to stick with the pace or is rarely sitting somewhere mid-pack. He stormed home in :27.4 in his last start to finish third to three-year-old underdog Escape The News. Before that, he tried to take the field wire-to-wire in the slop and broke on the lead at Yonkers before that. He is also an aggressive pacer, he can bare a first over trip. He has won first over against non-winners of $13,000 at Harrah’s Philadelphia. He should get away around mid-pack or attempt to take the lead. If he takes the lead, he should rate and try to steal it. If he gets away mid-pack, he’ll find some way into the cover flow and use his late kick to win.

Race 10- (3) Sonic Raider has marched his way up the claiming ladder. In his most recent start, he battled for the lead against $25,000 Claimers, where he emerged victorious. He should be a menace to many foes in this mile and will likely close from mid-pack. (8) Dinner Guest is coming off of three good miles against $40,000 Claimers at Yonkers. He’ll likely attempt to set the pace and will have a strong say in this mile. 

TRI’s Picks December 28 Meadowlands

Meadowlands Racetrack Late Pick 4, Races 7-10, Friday, December 28, 2012

We are back for another meet! The winter meet at the Meadowlands Racetrack promised to introduce the A-B-C system of racing to make the events more competitive and just from looking at the program what they promised will come true. Not only will the under card be competitive, but the Pick 4 will be even more. Let’s get rolling; Meadowlands 2013 meet, here we come!

$2 Play: 5,8,9/3,10/1/9 = $12

Analysis:

Race 7- (5) Chief Karen has competed well against her fellow foes at Yonkers in some of the top companies at the New York oval. She ships into the Meadowlands this week and should improve on the mile track. (8) Arctic Fire N has also done well across the river at Yonkers. Exempting her last race where she was far back and closed to finish seventh, she worked her way to the top conditioned ranks with Chief Karen. She’ll be a threat and a value play here. (9) Mj’s Bid is the likely favorite in this event. She is coming off of two straight victories, with her most recent coming from a lower condition. Her post will be a burden, but she should overcome it easily.

Race 8- (3) Ice Machine is shipping to the Meadowlands off of an easy win against non-winners of $13,000 at Harrah’s Philadelphia. Before that mile, he was hung against non-winners of $18,000 at Philly. He has a wide area of improvement possible in this event. (10) Likeabatoutahell will have to settle with post 10. Though he likes to be on the pace, post 10 will make him have to work harder to get positioning. He will likely get a spot and close late into the stretch with something left.

Race 9- (1) Carolsideal has done well in the conditioned ranks at Harrah’s Philadelphia. In her most recent mile, she finished a good second to Ramalama in a non-winners of $13,000 last five. She should be up in the top positions and swing by rivals in the stretch to pull of a minor upset.

Race 10- (9) Palm’s Beach is coming off of two straight third place finishes in non-winners of $5,000 company. He is one of the fastest in the field and has room for improvement in this mile. 

HarnessRaycer Picks for December 22

I’d like to start by saying how excited I am to start this series. This series is dedicated to a fictional bankroll, where I will give out plays for various tracks weekly. If this is posted on a Thursday, there are plays for Friday and Saturday, but there are only picks for Saturday if it’s posted on Friday.

BANKROLL: $200

Flamboro Downs Race #5

(2) White Gear- He is getting some well-needed post relief this week and returning to a company that he did well in two start back. He should improve with post 2.

Plays: $4 to win 2 and $4 exacta 2-6                    Cost: $8

Freehold Raceway Race #2

(5) Trey- He has experience against the bunch in the $6,000 Claiming ranks. His last mile was the most impressive as he attempted to challenge the leader through a first over move. He plays as a major danger in this mile.

Plays: $4 to win 5 $2 Trifecta 5-2,4-2,4 Cost: $10

Woodbine Harness Race #4

(8) Rollem Up- Emerged victorious after stepping up from non-winners of $1,000 last three to non-winners of $4,000. He jumps onto the seven-eighths oval this week, making a slight hike in class. He will likely be a good value play.

Plays: $8 to win 8          Cost: $8

Woodbine Harness Race #10

(6) High Def Z Tam- Has shown two good efforts against the Preferred company. He was caught first over last time and sustained his bid to receive a check; finishing fourth. He should get a better trip and use his closing kick to his advantage this week.

Plays: $6 to win 6 and $4 exacta 6-4,7            Cost: $14

Total Cost: $40

Good luck!

My Fatherly Influence

Growing up, I was the average child. I watched Disney cartoons, played the game cube and watched more television. As I went to school those years seemed empty. I would go to school, come home, eat and play games.

In the midst of my childhood, I dealt with the divorce of my parents. At age eight, I coped with going house to house every week to see my dad then return to my mom’s house. Just as I was ending my fourth grade year, my life was about to change for the better.

My mom has a friend, who owns thoroughbred horses that came to our house constantly. I was shooting golf balls with him in my yard when he went inside. I wondered when he would come back out to hit balls with me. I walked inside and I looked in curiosity as my mom and him sat on the couch, watching the horses run around the Golden Gate oval. Although I had seen horse racing in my earlier years, it hadn’t caught my eye the way it did that day.

I walked over to him and asked him what he was doing, in which he replied handicapping. After I asked what, he gave me a tutorial on how to read a program. I sat with them on the couch, waiting anxiously for the next Golden Gate race. When they went off, I saw the horse I selected turn for home in front. I screamed and shouted, “I had the winner!” (Not technically had, just selected). From there, the love of horse racing had eaten its way into my brain.

I didn’t see much of my mom’s friend for the rest of the summer, but that didn’t stop me. I remembered one day that my dad was really involved in horse racing, so I went to ask him to take me to the track one day. He replied to me of course.

During that summer, my dad had a part-time job at the Hershey Gardens, watching the trains. I would go to his house every Wednesday night, where we would go out to get some wings at a restaurant, then head to Penn National to watch the races.

I wasn’t truly a harness man at this stage; I was more into the thoroughbreds. But as my selecting skills got off, I tried something else.

I asked my dad if he could teach me how to look at harness races and he replied sure. Ending the summer of 2009, I was hooked on harness. It was an undying love that is unexplainable as most passions. What triggered the true love on the other hand, was one Wednesday night at Penn National.

The sun set as we were in our seats that evening. My dad and I both had our coffee and were off to look at the races at Pocono Downs. I saw a wager I never heard of, the Pick 3, and I asked him what it was in which he replied you pick three consecutive winners.

I thought I would try this. I picked one horse in the three races, a 6-1, 4-1 and 5-1. I had the first two legs and was turning for home with a good shot to win the third. As I remember, Vinnie Ginsburg had a 13-1 shot who sat the pocket for most of the mile and was in pursuit of the 5-1 I needed for the ticket. Heading down to the wire, he nipped my horse and won by a nose.

Before the race, my dad looked at the payouts and said, “You would’ve had the entire pool!” I sat in anguish, sad that my horse lost right at the line. Then, the payouts came up.

It was a consolation! A single ticket, worth $2, returned over $80 for a Pick 3. The profit was nearly an 8,000% return! From there, I couldn’t stop watching harness racing.

The handicapping wasn’t enough though. I didn’t feel as involved as I wanted to be. In the summer of 2010, my wish came true.

My dad had gotten a job with the Hambletonian Society to cover all the major races leading up to the Hambletonian, then the Breeders Crown. He wanted me to help him.

I didn’t know much about journalism at that time. Thankfully, my dad taught me how the reviews should be laid out and how to write them. With all that I learned, I went to the Meadowlands to get my first taste of live standardbred action.

I had always wanted to be on site at a harness racing track and I was able to be. The Clyde Hirt group then asked to interview me as I was the youngest person, at age 10, to be inside the Meadowlands press box.

The 2010 season was in the books and memories had been cherished. Though, my rise to stardom wasn’t close to ending. With my father at side, I began writing race previews with him for TwinSpires and the Hambletonian Society. I got a mix of handicapping and journalism when I began previews.

The 2011-year was the most meteoric rise to fame for me. I had begun my own blog, The Racing Inquirer and decided to begin writing reviews and previews for that as well as TwinSpires and the Hambletonian Society. I became the busiest 11-year-old in my school with this venture.

I knew everyone at the Meadowlands as I returned for year two, though the mood was softer than in 2010. The reason was that news had been coming out that the Meadowlands could possibly close forever unless a deal was reached. Though, that didn’t take away from the excitement of the races.

Everyone from 2010 was anxious to see me as I was to see them. I was most excited to be with the main crew Dave Brower, Bob Heyden, Sam McKee and Ken Warkentin. Though reports were coming in that Dave would leave the Meadowlands, also causing a soft mood.

After the Hambletonian was our journey for the Breeders Crown. My dad and I did not head to Canada to cover the races, but were in our office working. Though the Hambletonian Society got the WEG personnel to cover the races, I began writing for Harnesslink after they interviewed me in August of 2011.

Yet, my rise was still not close to ending. The hardest year for me was 2012 as I was ending my seventh grade year, I began yet again to cover the races. It was harder though, seeing as earlier in the year I could never have thought I could be in a better position than I am now. Of course, I was wrong.

I returned for the third year to the Meadowlands, where I began a strong connection with a friend of mine Darin Zoccali. He is a good man and is still being kind enough to teach me ways to get more involved in the sport.

At the time of year three at the Big M, I had become a co-host on the radio show North American Harness Update on BlogTalkRadio. I had received a promotion from week-to-week guest after the previous co-host left due to new assignments that he accepted.

I had become the producer of the show at the time of the Meadowlands. I did the show for the Hambletonian live from the press box the Friday night before the big day, staying after the races to talk about the upcoming super day.

Then, the super day came. I was not doing much in the press box as our boss didn’t give us much direction on what to do, so I was covering the races for my blog. The year’s press manager, Chris Tully, asked for my assistance as he saw I was not too busy.

I helped him manage the frenzy of the press box on Hambletonian day, while still having time to go into the front paddock and watch the Nat Ray, Hambletonian Oaks and Hambletonian from the rail up close.

After Hambletonian 2012, it was time to cover the Breeders Crown, which was starting to appear to be the toughest in ages. I covered it with him and then ended the 2012 season

Which brings me to today. The significance of this blog is that today is my father’s birthday. I recognize him today, as one of the biggest ambassadors to harness racing. He brought a new age of harness fans into the sport and now I attempt to do the same. He is the reason for my success and I thought it be necessary to recognize him today. I wish my father, mentor and partner in crime, Frank Cotolo, a happy birthday. 

Matrons to be Deciding Moment for End of Year Honors

After the Breeders’ Crown, the stakes season begins to wind down with the grand circuit action at Balmoral and Maywood, but the end of stakes season is marked with the Matron and Progress Pace. Seven Matron divisions will be conducted on the Dover Downs surface, leading up to the $270,000 Progress Pace.

The two-year-old colt trot opens up the stakes card, holding a purse of $159,675. With top prospect in the Matron Dontyouforgetit out, we turn to a horse that did well in his elimination last week, San Donato. San Donato trotted behind tempo setter Sand Royal Blu for the entire mile, not trying to overtake him into the stretch but finished second. This week, he shouldn’t let Sand Royal Blu easily trot around the oval, he will put up a fight and be a great price.

Royal Assets winning at The Meadows

Up next is the frosh-filly trot, where Time To Kill has shown she will be a fierce competitor against the other four. We look away from her with the likely second choice Royal Assets. She trotted the entire mile behind Time To Kill, finishing a good second. Royal Assets is a much better trotter than Time To Kill and should unleash a furious mile like she did in the Merrie Annabelle. Royal Assets will likely attempt to dictate the tempo and should do well on the top if she does take the lead.

Somwherovrarainbow winning the 2yofp Breeders' Crown at
Woodbine Racetrack

The freshmen filly pace features the top horse in the division, Somwherovrarainbow. She paced leisurely around the track in the preview and should be prime for the final; there is no use picking against her. You would have better luck to be elected President of the United States than if you picked against Somwherovrarainbow.

The three-year-old filly trot is one of the best betting races of the night. We went against likely favorite Win Missy B, but have two horses to offer that have a good chance of winning. The first horse is Mystical Escapade. She shipped in from Indiana and finished a good third against these ranks and should get another great trip. She is a great bet if she is 6-1 or up approaching post time.

The second betting opportunity is with a horse we have followed for most of the season, D’orsay. She is always a big price in races of this caliber and Callahan finds a way to give her a good trip. She will likely get away mid-pack, then pick up cover second over and from there, she’ll use her late kick. She’s a good bet if she is 9-1 or up approaching post time.

The freshmen colt pace Matron was blown wide open, as a 44-1 shot won the preview for fun, Sir Cary’s Z Tam. His stable mate Sir Richard Z Tam has a better chance this week. He shouldn’t be as far off the pace as he was last week, having to close and finish a disappointing second. Under him, we’ll use Dedi’s Dragon and Teresa’s Beach for a trifecta. Dedi’s Dragon set the pace as he left from post 8 in the preview. He draws the rail this week and shouldn’t have to work hard to get the lead. Teresa’s Beach sat the pocket around the entire oval, coming up the passing lane to finish third. She should get that same trip this week and be a good price as well.

Googoo Gaagaa winning at the Meadowlands

The sophomore colt trot is headlined by the eliminations favorite, Uncle Peter. Uncle Peter returned after a horrible race in the Hambletonian in the Oliver Trotting Classic, where he lost to stable mate Upfront Billy. Our eyes are on the ‘ugly duckling’ of the trotters, so to speak. We like Googoo Gaagaa in this event. He was far off the pace in the eliminations, as he had to come from the second tier. He draws post 7 this week and should be more aggressive in this mile.

We’ll also go with My Mvp underneath for an exacta. He had to go first over to chase down Little Brown Fox, which did not have a good result. My Mvp finished fifth, as he wanted to save something for the final. He should be ready tonight and a good price.

The final Matron is the three-year-old filly pace. Darena Hanover headlines the race after a win in the preview. We will take a shot with an oddball, Marty Party. She came from post 8 in the preview and got away second, fading through a :26 and change opening quarter. This race was after scratching sick from the Breeders’ Crown. This is her second start off of being scratched sick, draws a better post and is in the perfect position to upset.

Bettor's Edge winning his Breeders' Crown
elimination

The feature on the card, the Progress Pace, is sure to be a tough mile, as foes will attempt to beat Breeders’ Crown winner Heston Blue Chip. One pacer in this field has been super consistent within the last few months, but was disappointing in the preview; finishing sixth. Bettor’s Edge is our horse to beat Heston Blue Chip. He draws a better post this week and should not let Heston Blue Chip go right to the lead. Bettor’s Edge will put up a fight that in the end, he will win. His 10-1 morning line is very deceiving, as he will probably go off at 15 or 20-1. If you are confident in beating Heston Blue Chip, then Bettor’s Edge is the horse you want to put your $2 on to win. 

Day One of Black Book Sale in the Books

The first day of the Black Book Sale at Harrisburg attracted international buyers to purchase yearlings with top-notch bloodlines. Top breeders Hanover Farms, Perretti Farms, Peninsula Farms, Fashion Farms, All American Farms and many more combined to sell 253 yearlings on the first day of four for the yearling sale.

Churchill Hanover after being sold for $380,000

The day’s sales topper was Churchill Hanover. The colt that was consigned by Hanover Shoe Farms is by Well Said, out of the mare Cathedra by Run The Table. E & M Stride Condell Park bought him for $380,000.

The second highest purchase was Blister Hanover. The colt that was consigned by Hanover Shoe Farms is by Somebeachsomewhere, out of the mare Boldnbrash Hanover by The Panderosa. Myron Bell purchased the colt for $350,000.

The third highest purchase was Sweet Talkin Clyde. The colt that was consigned by Concord Stud Farms is by Well Said, out of the mare Sweet Future by Falcons Future. Kevin McDermott purchased the half-brother to Bettor Sweet for $325,000.

High And Tight in the stall after selling for $295,000

The fourth highest purchase was Joost Hanover. The colt that was consigned by Hanover Shoe Farms is by Somebeachsomewhere, out of the mare Jasmine Hanover by Western Hanover. Odds On Racing bought the colt for $300,000. 

The fourth highest purchase was High And Tight. The filly that was consigned by Diamond Creek Farms is by Somebeachsomewhere, out of the mare Thong by Western Hanover. Chris Oakes purchased her for $295,000.

Idealbeach Hanover in the sales ring

The fifth highest purchase was Idealbeach Hanover. The colt that was consigned by Hanover Shoe Farms is by Somebeachsomewhere, out of the mare Ideal Weather by Western Ideal. Jeff Gillis purchased the colt for $260,000.

The sixth highest purchase was Classics Greatwish. The colt that was consigned by Winbak Farms is by Somebeachsomewhere, out of the mare Classic Wish by Armbro Emerson. Thomas Cancelliere purchased him for $185,000.

The seventh highest purchase was Ariel Salute. The colt that was consigned by Blue Chip Farms is by Credit Winner, out of the mare Fireworks Hanover by Muscles Yankee. Alan Hainsworth purchased him for $170,000.

Fortis Deo in the sales ring

The eighth highest purchase was Fortis Deo. The colt that was consigned by Preferred Equine is by Well Said, out of the mare Lisjune by Camluck. Jeff Snyder and Four Friends Stable bought the colt for $160,000.

The ninth highest purchase was Peron Blue Chip. The filly that was consigned by Blue Chip Farms is by Credit Winner, out of the mare She’s So Savvy by Malabar Man. Albert Adams bought her for $150,000.

The eleventh highest purchase was Westward Hanover. Consigned from Hanover Shoe Farms, the yearling was by Somebeachsomewhere, out of the mare Western Duel by Western Hanover. Joe Pavia Jr. purchased the colt for $145,000.

Graceful Kelly eating in her stall after being sold for $145,000

Equaling the eleventh highest purchase was Graceful Kelly. Consigned by Perretti Farms, the filly is by Muscles Yankee, out of the mare Graceful Touch by Pine Chip. Black Horse Racing purchased the filly for $145,000. 

Yearlings Hip 260-572 will be sold at tomorrow's session, which begins at 10 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. 

Dynamic Youth Paces Home in ‘Cane;’ Blackjack Princess takes Shady Daisy

The Aaron Lambert trained Dynamic Youth took the $322,716 Cane Pace in 1:48.4. Guided by George Brennan, he held off a charging Pet Rock and a closing Bettor’s Edge finished third.

Coming from post 4, Dynamic Youth got away eighth through a :25.1 opening quarter. When stable mate A Rocknroll Dance cleared the front around the clubhouse turn, Brennan pulled the Bettor’s Delight gelding first over, giving cover to Heston Blue Chip and Mybrothergeorge.

Past the half-mile pole in :53.0 (:27.4), A Rocknroll Dance was under the pressure of a flushed-out Pet Rock. Stalling, Bettor’s Edge was flushed first over in pursuit of A Rocknroll Dance through a 1:20.3 (:27.3) third-quarter.

The backfield came to life into the stretch, as Heston Blue Chip and Dynamic Youth fanned off cover to chase down A Rocknroll Dance. Pet Rock passed a faltering Bettor’s Edge and Dynamic Youth was closing hard. A Rocknroll Dance lost the lead to Pet Rock and Dynamic Youth came pacing down the center of the track. Dynamic Youth was able to get his nose in front of Pet Rock to win the Cane Pace.

Dynamic Youth is a three-year-old pacing gelding by Bettor’s Delight out of the mare Always True by Western Hanover. He is owned by Jerry and Theresa Silva, Kenneth Tucci and C & G Racing Stables, trained by Aaron Lambert and the minister of speed George Brennan guided the sophomore to a 1:48.4 victory.

Through the fast fractions, Blackjack Princess stalked the field and paced by the field to upset in the $100,000 Shady Daisy. Bettor B Lucky was a game second and Jk Fine Art was third.

Persistent launched off the gate and was caught wide heading into the first turn, while Bettor B Lucky paced off the gate and went to the pylons. Persistent was first over through a :25.4 opening quarter.

Past the three-eighths, Persistent was the tempo setter, while Bettor B Lucky was in the pocket second and Major Look was first over in third. Persistent paced the half in :53 (:27.1).

Major Look cleared the front by three-quarters in 1:21 (:28). Around the final turn, Bettor B Lucky pulled the pocket and challenged Major Look. Jk Fine Art fanned off cover and Blackjack Princess came four wide off the pylons.

Into the stretch, Major Look still had the lead. Blackjack Princess was pacing hard down the center of the track and Bettor B Lucky came with a final rally. Blackjack Princess drew off by 2 lengths to win in 1:51.1 (:30.1)

Blackjack Princess is a three-year-old filly pacer by Cam’s Card Shark, out of the mare Happy Doris by Direct Scooter. She is owned by Robert Di Nozzi, trained by Mark Ford and Mark MacDonald was in the bike. 

Remainder of Super Card Filled with Records and Upsets

After covering Races 2-4, we decided to do a full story for the remainder of the Harrah’s Philadelphia card.

Kiss Dont Bite held Marty Party and Moonlit Dragon at bay to win the $150,000 Valley Forge Consolation I in 1:51. Marty Party was second and Moonlit Dragon was third. Moonlit Dragon lead the field by the opening quarter, while Kiss Dont Bite was first over in third. Kiss Dont Bite took the front at the three-eighths and was unchallenged until the stretch drive, where Marty Party and Moonlit Dragon fought hard, but didn’t have enough to beat Kiss Dont Bite.  

Money On My Mind held off a closing Solvato to win the $200,000 Colonial Consolation I in 1:53.2. Upfront Billy was third. Magic Tonight was the leader for most of the mile, while Money On My Mind was in the pocket. “Money” pulled the pocket at the top of the stretch and took the lead, fending off all challenges to win.

Easy Again won the $200,000 Battle of the Brandywine in 1:50.2. Bettor’s Edge was second and I Like Dreamin was third. Bettor’s Edge was the tempo setter and I Like Dreamin was the main threat for most of the mile. Easy Again was in seventh and took advantage of their duel and closed.

Chapter Seven did not disappoint the public as he went gate to wire in the $150,000 Maxie Lee Memorial Invitational in 1:52.1. Anders Bluestone was second and Looking Hanover was third.

Romantic Moment held off a closing American Jewel to win the $350,000 Valley Forge Final in 1:50.1. Dream Of Winning was third. Economy Terror lead the field for most of the mile and Romantic Moment was in the pocket. Major Look applied pressure to “Economy” at three-quarters, while American Jewel was second over and Romantic Moment was at the rail.

Turning for home, Romantic Moment found room and took the lead, while American Jewel and Big Mcdeal were closing on the outside. But Romantic Moment made a perfectly timed move and won.

Googoo Gaagaa returned to his winning ways in the $500,000 Colonial, winning in a stakes record 1:52.1. Market Share was second and Little Brown Fox was third. Making a move at the half-mile, Googoo Gaagaa was first over for most of the mile and still managed to defeat this bunch.

A Rocknroll Dance rebounded from his loss in the Adios and won the $500,000 Battle of the Brandywine in 1:48.1. Pet Rock was second and Sweet Lou was third. Hurrikane Kingcole was the pacesetter through blistering fractions of :25.3, :52.3 (:27) and 1:20.1 (:27.3). A Rocknroll Dance challenged “Kingcole” at three-quarters, took the lead and started drawing away. Pet Rock was closing down the middle of the track and Sweet Lou was holding on for third. A Rocknroll Dance was home free in the final eighth of a mile, Pet Rock was second and Sweet Lou was third.  

Simply Business Takes Battle of the Brandywine Consolation Two

CHESTER, PA— Simply Business sat a pocket trip for most of the mile and paced on by I Fought Dalaw to win the $100,000 Battle of the Brandywine Consolation II in 1:50.1. I Fought Dalaw was second and Take A Walk was third.

Friday At Five took the lead, with Simply Business on the outside in second and Mortal Zin at the cones in third. Simply Business took the top at the quarter in :26.3. I Fought Dalaw went right on by and was the new leader into the clubhouse turn. Back in third was Friday At Five and Escape The News was first over in fourth. I Fought Dalaw went by the half in :53.3 (:27).

Down the backstretch, I Fought Dalaw was unchallenged. Escape The News was fading first over and Verdad came three wide. Simply Business found racing room and came first over at three-quarters in 1:21.2 (:27.4).

Into the stretch, Simply Business took the lead. I Fought Dalaw was back in second and Take A Walk was closing down the middle of the track. But Simply Business had a lot left in the tank and held off I Fought Dalaw and Take A Walk to win in 1:50.1.

Simply Busisness is a three-year-old colt pacer by Rocknroll Hanover, out of the mare Cathedra Dot Com by Presidential Ball. He is owned by Brixton Medical, Order By Stable, Louie Camera and Marvin Katz, trained by Jimmy Takter and Ron Pierce was in the bike. 

Nothing But Class Narrowly Wins Colonial Consolation Two

CHESTER, PA— Nothing But Class took the sophomore trotters wire-to-wire to win the $100,000 Colonial Consolation II. Lindys Jersey Boy finished second, Appomattox was third and No Frosting finished fourth.

Nothing But Class went for the lead, with Lindys Jersey Boy in second and Appomattox in third. Dandover and Go Tapaigh both went off stride approaching the opening quarter. Nothing But Class took them by the quarter in :27.3.

Appomattox came first over approaching the half-mile. Lindys Jersey Boy was sitting right behind Nothing But Class at the half in :56.3 (:29). Muscolo was gapping cover in fourth and Fashion Astral was locked at the pylons. No Frosting was the trailer of the pack into the backstretch.

Nothing But Class had a 2 length at the three-quarter pole. Appomattox moved into second and Lindys Jersey Boy was at the rail in third. Three-quarters went in 1:25 (:28.2).

Into the stretch, Nothing But Class was drifting off the rail. Lindys Jersey Boy was closing at the inside and Appomattox was fading in third. Approaching the wire, Lindys Jersey Boy and Nothing But Class were nose to nose, but Nothing But Class held on to win. Appomattox was third and No Frosting closed to finish fourth.

Nothing But Class is a three-year-old colt trotter by Andover Hall, out of the mare Bold Dreamer by Donerail. He is owned by Christina Takter and John Fielding and he was trained and driven by Jimmy Takter.  

Persistent Takes Valley Forge Consolation Two

CHESTER, PA— The Casie Coleman trained Persistent held off several challengers to win the $75,000 Valley Forge Consolation II in 1:50.2. Rockaround Sue finished second, Mikeleh was third and Lightning Paige finished fourth.

Rockaround Sue was the tempo setter through a :26.2 opening quarter. Persistent pulled the pocket and took the top from Rockaround Sue heading into the clubhouse turn. Lightning Paige was in third and Mikeleh was fourth.

Persistent paced the half-mile in :54.1 (:27.4). Down the backstretch, Persistent was unchallenged. Mikeleh moved into fourth as Air Guitar Hanover made a break at three-quarters in 1:22 (:27.4).

Lightning Paige came first over around the far turn. Persistent was drawing away slightly and Rockaround Sue was stuck at the pylons. Persistent was drifting wide into the stretch, as Lightning Paige was also steering to the grandstand side. Rockaround Sue was coming up the rail and Mikeleh came up the lightning lane. At the finish, Persistent held off Rockaround Sue to win. Mikeleh was third and Lightning Paige was fourth.

Persistent is a three-year-old pacing filly by Western Ideal out of the mare Cams Leading Lady by Million Dollar Cam. She is owned by Robert Hamather, trained by Casie Coleman and David Miller was in the bike to win in 1:50.2, a lifetime mark. 

Michaels Power Takes Confederation Cup

The Casie Coleman trained Michaels Power, who finished second to Pet Rock in the first heat, got a pocket trip to win Confederation Cup XXXVI in 1:52.4. Dynamic Youth closed from last to finish second and Pet Rock was third.

Michaels Power was the tempo setter until Pet Rock cleared the lead at the three-eighths pole. After a :26.1 opening quarter, Pet Rock started to slow down the pace. I Found My Beach came first over to challenge Pet Rock at the half. I Found My Beach and Pet Rock were wheel to wheel after a :54.4 (:28.3) half mile.

Michaels Power was stuck at the inside in third and Secretsoftheknight was following the hoof prints of I Found My Beach approaching three-quarters. State Treasurer came third over from the back of the pack. Pet Rock was under pressure from I Found My Beach, Secretsoftheknight and Dynamic Youth at three-quarters in 1:23.4 (:29).

Pet Rock started to kick away at the top of the stretch, until Michaels Power found racing room and started his bid up the passing lane. Dynamic Youth was closing on the far outside and Secretsoftheknight had no rally. Michaels Power’s last threat was Dynamic Youth, but the line came just in time and Michaels Power was crowned champion. Dynamic Youth was second and Pet Rock was third.

Michaels Power is a three-year-old colt by Camluck, out of the mare Michelles Jackpot by Artsplace. He is owned by Jeff Snyder, trained by Casie Coleman and Scott Zeron was in the bike to win the Confederation Cup in 1:52.4. 

Trotters and Pacers shine on Hambo Card

The first Saturday in August is known for the Hambletonian. But, freshmen and sophomore, pacers and trotters, got their chance to shine today.

Captaintreacherous made a backstretch brush and drew off by 10 lengths to win the $309,050 Woodrow Wilson in 1:49.3. Hail The Taxi closed to finish second and Martini Hanover passed a fading Muscles Beachboy to finish third.

Captaintreacherous winning the Woodrow Wilson

To Dream On used her gigantic strides to chase down tempo setter Royal Assets to win the $354,450 Merrie Annabelle in 1:54. Raring To Go S trotted by tiring rivals to finish third and Miss Steele faded to fourth.

To Dream On winning the Merrie Annabelle

Aperfectyankee recovered the lead late in the mile and held off a storming Corky to win the $387,250 Peter Haughton Memorial. Fashion Blizzard closed from the back of the field to finish third and Caveat Emptor closed to finish fourth.

Aperfectyankee holding on to win the Peter Haughton Memorial

Chapter Seven returned to his winning ways in fine style, winning the $250,000 Nat Ray Invitational in a world record 1:50.1. Mister Herbie finished second, Daylon Magician held for third and Sevruga settled for fourth.

Chapter Seven winning the Nat Ray

Personal Style pulled off the 55-1 upset to win the 87^th edition of the Hambletonian Oaks in 1:53.1. Win Missy B settled for second, Sassy Syrinx closed from the back of the field to finish third and Holier Than Thou settled for fourth. Favorites Maven and Check Me Out went off stride at the top of the stretch, blowing the race wide open.

Personal Style says bye bye to Win Missy B and wins the Hambletonian Oaks

Market Share bared a first over trip to win the $1.5-million Hambletonian in 1:52.1. Guccio was charging down the middle of the track to finish second, My Mvp was closing with him to finish third and Archangel faded to fourth.

Market Share winning the big tango, the 87th Hambletonian in 1:52.1

Golden Reciever lead the pack around the mile oval to win the $242,500 U.S. Pacing Championship in 1:48. Aracache Hanover was closing to finish second, Meirs Hanover rallied for third and We Will See settled for fourth.

Golden Reciever taking the field wire-to-wire to win the U.S. Pacing Championship

Panther Hanover paced behind super-fast Hurrikane Kingcole to win the $275,000 New Jersey Classic in 1:47.2. Hurrikane Kingcole finished second, Rollnlikeabigshot was third and Ideal Champ closed for fourth. Note that Hurrikane Kingcole paced the fastest three-quarters in harness racing history, 1:18.2! Devonshire Hanover, where he paced 1:19, held the previous record.  

Panther Hanover took advantage of the fast fractions and flew on by Hurrikane Kingcole
to win the New Jersey Classic

Jerseylicious Upsets in Sweetheart

He $268,300 Sweetheart Final was won in the stretch as Jerseylicious paced down top-choice Nikki Beach in 152.1.

Nikki Beach took command just after the 1:23.2 third split in an effort to glide home safely but was challenged wide by Jerseylicious’s late kick. Winning driver Corey Callahan had saved Jerseylicious second over behind Nikki Beach and then sprung around her to win my a neck.

Wayne Givens trains Jerseylicious, who paid $20 for the win.

Shebestingin, an early choice along with the top one, was a late scratch from the race. Also scratched wsa Acquavella and Banner Beach Day.

Sarandon Blue Chip Crowned Miss New Jersey on Hambo Undercard

Sarandon Blue Chip traveled first over for half the mile and found a late burst of energy to draw off by 3 lengths and win the $125,000 Miss New Jersey Final at the Meadowlands on Aug. 4. Mikeleh was second and Pirouette Hanover finished third.

Blackjack Princess left quickly and Childs Play came after her in a brief duel before that one found the catbird seat. Then, Rockaround Sue made a move to the top, the half cut in :54.

“Sue” cut three-quarters in 1:21.4 as Sarandon Blue Chip was making her way first over and taking advantage of the speedy shuffle. She passed the top three and went on to win easily, drawing away to win in 1:50.1.

David Miller drove for trainer Casie Coleman.

Mare ‘Puts On A Show’ In ‘Liberty’ Final

Put On A Show caught the field late to win the $253,700 Lady Liberty Final on Saturday, August 4. Rebeka Bayama was second and Anndrovette was third.

Put On A Show got away behind the leader Anndrovette at the quarter pole. Rocklamation was in third and the even money favorite Drop The Ball was pacing fourth. Drop The Ball made the first move, going first over after Anndrovette, supplying a :53.2 half mile.

Into the far turn, Anndrovette still had the lead, with Drop The Ball to the outside in second and Rebeka Bayama pacing behind Drop The Ball in third. Anndrovette paced by three-quarters in 1:20.3.

Into the stretch, Anndrovette was holding off the pressure from Drop The Ball. Rebeka Bayama came three wide and Rocklamation flew off the pylons to the middle of the track. Put On A Show was looking for room to race in the final sixteenth. At the line, Put On A Show came up the pylons to defeat a closing Rebeka Bayama and game Anndrovette.

Put On A Show is a five-year-old mare by Rocknroll Hanover out of the mare Stienam’s Place by Artsplace. She is owned by Craig Henderson and Richard and Joanne Young, trained by Chris Ryder and Jody Jamieson was in the bike to win in 1:47.3, a world record performance. 

Meadowlands Features Stakes to Coincide with Hambletonian

This weekend is the biggest weekend of the harness racing calender, as the best horses in the world visit the Meadowlands to race in the top stakes events of the year. The Hambletonian, Hambletonian Oaks, Duenna, U.S. Pacing Championship, Woodrow Wilson, Lady Liberty, Sweetheart, New Jersey Classic, Miss New Jersey, Merrie Annabelle and Peter Haughton add up to nearly $5-million in stakes purses on the 15 race card.

Race 1

$30,000 DUENNA 3YOFT

Picks: 8/10/2

(8) Riverfest- Coming off a good third place effort against Win Missy B, a Hambletonian Oaks finalist, in the Reynolds on July 6. She is coming off a short layoff and should be sharp and flat today.

(10) Oasis Dream- I’m not psyched about post 10, but this is a talented filly. She defeated Superstar Hanover in the Pennsylvania Sires Stakes and with her strong gate kick, she should get away in the top five and get a great, ground saving trip to sum out the exacta.

(2) Talbotcreek Jewely- She raced very well against conditioned trotters, getting caught wide early, clearing the top, getting shuffled and closing for second. If she wasn’t ready to take on these gals, she wouldn’t even be entered against this group. 

Race 2

$253,700 LADY LIBERTY FFA MARE PACE

Picks: 6/1/5

(6) Rocklamation- She will likely be underbet since names like Drop The Ball and Put On A Show dropped into the box. Rocklamation paced first over late and cleared, but then was surpassed by Anndrovette into the stretch. She should be sharp and ready to pace today.

(1) Anndrovette- She was drastically under bet in the Roses Are Red, where she took the field wire-to-wire at 13-1. She won’t be that big of a price this week, but should get a good spot and come closing late.

(5) Put On A Show regained a lot of ground in the Roses Are Red, but finished a disappointing fourth as the favorite. She will have to get a good spot early, then take over around three-quarters to have a chance to finish in the top three.

Race 3

$30,000 DUENNA 3YOFT

Picks: 9/6/1

(9) Bluff- She is coming off a tough mile against this group in the Pennsylvania Sires Stakes at Pocono. She’ll have to get away second or third and hold that position until the top of the stretch, where she should pop the pocket and trot right on by.

(6) D’orsay- She is returning after a disappointing effort in the Hambletonian Oaks eliminations. But, she was runner up to Win Missy B in the Reynolds three starts back. Since she is going up against weaker, she should be fairly under bet from her unappealing starts and finish in the top three, blowing up the exotics.

(1) Starglow Hall- Call me crazy but this horse showed she was very live last week, going three wide into the first turn and was caught wide for the rest of the mile. She draws post 1 this week and may be able to get a pocket trip and finish in the trifecta.

Race 4

$125,000 SBOA MISS NEW JERSEY 3YOFP

Picks: 3/10/5

(3) Air Guitar Hanover- She seems to have gotten her groove back as she finished third at 37-1 in the elimination. From post 10, she got away sixth and regained about 7 lengths in the mile. She should get off the gate and get a spot in the top three and she should come out of the pocket and close to win.

(10) Pirouette Hanover- Even though she was not given the luck of the draw, she should be able to coupe. She got away fairly slow at the beginning and regained 10 lengths to finish fifth as the favorite. The Sweetheart champion should be able to leave fast, get a good spot and come out late.

(5) Notreadytobenice- She is in the same situation as Pirouette Hanover, except she has a better post. She left the gate last and gained 12 lengths to finish sixth. She’ll have to get away mid-pack and not go first over so she’ll have that late kick for the final 3/16ths.

Race 5

$268,300 SWEETHEART 2YOFP

Picks: 10/8/4

(10) Shebestingin- She is the best in the field, but will be ignored from her post. Remember though, last year Pirouette Hanover won the Sweetheart from post 10. She is improving in every start and will finally let the beast inside of her be unleashed.

(8) Jerseylicious- She has finished second to Shebestingin in her first two starts, clearing the lead in one and getting a pocket trip the next. She too is an under rated freshman gal that will be unleashed today and show us how well she can pace against this bunch.

(4) Cult Status- She lost to Morning Line favorite Nikki Beach by only a length in the prep as Cult Status closed from fifth to just come up short in the end. She should get started a little earlier and blow up into the stretch.

Race 6

$309,050 WOODROW WILSON 2YOP

Picks: 6/9/2

(6) Rocky Mountain Guy- He will most likely take advantage of this bunch as I see a speed duel. Captaintreacherous and Muscle Beachboy will likely duel for the top and Rocky Mountain Guy will be in the pocket. The two will burn out into the stretch and ‘Rocky’ will climb up the victory stairs as he is romping in the stretch.

(9) Source Of Pride- This closing colt should have his ‘groove’ back after qualifying in 1:54.1. He’ll likely be sitting off the pace and come storming down the middle of the track down the stretch.

(2) Martini Hanover- It took him awhile to find his rally into the stretch last time. Chances are, he’ll be coming late to finish third.

Race 7

$354,450 MERRIE ANNABELLE 2YOFT

Picks: 4/8/3

(4) To Dream On- She reminds me of Poof She’s Gone and Check Me Out as 2yo, where they romped in the Merrie Annabelle. To Dream On won by 10 lengths in her elimination and if she is 1-1 or higher, she’ll be an overlay.

(8) Royal Assets- She is a strong front running filly. If she can hold off a challenge, she may have a chance or may just give way to Raring To Go S and To Dream On.

(3) Raring To Go S- She won the other elimination of the Merrie Annabelle, but she wasn’t the favorite. She won at 7-1 in 1:55.4. She’ll need to pull that same move, get a pocket trip then come late.

Race 8

$387,250 PETER HAUGHTON MEMORIAL 2YOCT

Picks: 2/3/4

(2) Dewycolorintheline- He won his elimination going a tough first over and won it by a length. He is one tough colt following the same path as his dad, Deweycheetumnhowe. I’d be shocked if he wasn’t first or second.

(3) Corky- The only threat to Major Athens in his elimination, where he was closing late, but lost by half a length. Today, he should get away in the front, get a pocket trip and start closing into the stretch.

(4) Aperfectyankee- The one fault in the Yankee Glides are that they can break sometimes. That’s exactly what this guy did, but trotted an amazing recovery to finish fourth. If he gets away mid-pack, his late rally will be very useful when they turn for home.

Race 9

$50,000 VINCENNES INVITATIONAL TROT

Picks: 8/3/10

(8) Likeabatouthell- Seems to have come back after his last start, where he closed from last to finish third in the Invitational at 43-1. If he gets a good spot, second or third over and comes wide into the stretch, he’ll stride home.

(3) Zooming- Trotted a hell of a mile at Pocono last time, going first over for most of the mile and won. He won’t be bet as much as he should be, so make sure you watch his price.

(10) Swan In A Million- He has won the last three out of four races. He can trot first over, second over, third over, so it’s not a matter of I knowing what he’ll do, but more along the lines of seeing it and knowing that they have a plan.

Race 10

$250,000 NAT RAY INVITATIONAL TROT

Picks: 5/3/4

(5) Mister Herbie- He is the best trotter in the division. He generally closes and there is a lot of speed in this race, so he’ll likely take advantage of that.

(3) Sevruga- The only reason he lost to Anders Bluestone last time was because of the post. This week, he draws a better position and should still be at the top of his game.

(4) Chapter Seven- The only rivals he has in here are Mister Herbie and Sevruga, since they can close well. ‘Chapter’ will have to either get a pocket trip or not duel for the front to win.

Race 11

$714,050 87^TH EDITION OF THE HAMBLETONIAN OAKS 3YOFT

Picks: 3/2/5

(3) Maven- The only horse in this race that has come remotely close to beating Check Me Out. She has not lost the fight inside of her and this is intending to be a two horse race.

(2) Check Me Out- The obvious choice. She is 20 for 23 and following the path of Moni Maker. If she gives Maven a pocket trip, it will be a tough stretch battle like it was in the Elegant Image.

(5) Uncommon Night- She knows how to get through traffic. She is improving with every start and should get away mid-pack. With that late rally of hers, she’ll likely finishin the trifecta.

Race 12

$1,500,000 87^TH EDITION OF THE HAMBLETONIAN 3YOT

Picks: 6/1/8

(6) Prestidigitator- He is the best trotter in this field. If he didn’t get that horrible trip he did in his elimination, he may have beat Uncle Peter. R. Dustin Jones also trained Martiniontherocks, who went wire-to-wire in the Breeders Crown in 2010. I see Prestidigitator pulling the same move, but getting away fourth or fifth. With a spot like that, he’ll save ground and get a chance to close into the stretch.

(1) Uncle Peter- He is definitely a factor to the Hambletonian equation. This tough sophomore made two moves in his elimination and came out victorious. Pierce will likely either take the lead or sit second and let the race set up from there. But I’m seeing they’ll do the same thing as they did with Muscle Massive two years ago.

(8) Stormin Normand- He is still the talented three-year-old trotter that everyone watched in awe almost beat Googoo Gaagaa in the Beal. The only reason he almost didn’t make the final was that he trotted a tough first over trip versus Riccolo, a fast, front end trotter. He should get away mid-pack and get into the cover flow. Then, he’ll come closing late and will blow up this trifecta.

Race 13

$242,500 U.S. PACING CHAMPIONSHIP FFA PACE

Picks: 4/12/5

(4) Aracache Hanover- Remember last year, when he almost beat We Will See in the U.S. Pacing Championship? Well, it will happen this year as ‘Aracache’ has matured over the last few months. If he doesn’t win this, I’d be shocked.

(12) Foiled Again- He just lost the Battle of Lake Erie by half a length about three weeks ago. Before that, he just lost the Des Smith. This week, I see him finishing second to Aracache to complete a likely large exacta.

(5) Meirs Hanover- This pacer gets less credit than he deserves. He always finishes on the board in these kind of races. He should get a pocket trip and have enough late in the mile.

Race 14

$275,000 SBOA NEW JERSEY CLASSIC 3YOP

Picks: 5/6/7

(5) Hurrikane Kingcole- He is a monster! One week, he’ll pace a super fast mile, then not the next. It seems though he has gotten his act together and may explode with speed into the stretch.

(6) Panther Hanover- He usually gets away first or second in the beginning of the mile. He’ll have to do that if he has any remote chance against Hurrikane Kingcole.

(7) Simply Business- Raced unusual than he normally does last week. He took the lead instead of coming from off the pace. If he gets away third or tries to close, he should finish in the trifecta.

Race 15

$22,000 NW $16,000 L5CD

Picks: 10/1/3

(10) Malak Uswaad N- He has shown so much talent in his first four U.S. starts. He has won all of them! He steps down and will be a great value from post 10.

(1) Great Vintage- He worked hard to get the lead last week, which made him burn out. With the rail, he should get away first or second and have something left in the stretch.

(3) Risk Management- Its round two for this pacer. He should’ve raced so much better in his last start, but since he didn’t, he gets one more chance and we are very confident that he will light up the toteboard in this race. 

Hurrikane Kingcole Speeds Home to Win Final ‘Classic’ Elim

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ— Hurrikane Kingcole came first over approaching the half and held the field at bay to win the second elimination for the New Jersey Classic. Panther Hanover was second, Simply Business was third and All Steinam finished fourth.

Simply Business took the lead, with Panther Hanover in second and Hurrikane Kingcole third. Simply Business took them by the quarter in :27. Panther Hanover came first over and cleared the lead approaching the half. Hurrikane Kingcole followed that cover and cleared from Panther Hanover by the half in :53.3 (:26.3).

Into the far turn, Hurrikane Kingcole was the one to catch and Brent Montana came first over to apply pressure. Panther Hanover was locked in at three-quarters in 1:21.4 (:28.1).

Into the stretch, Hurrikane Kingcole kicked away from the field. Panther Hanover was surging and drifting in second and Simply Business was holding for third as Hurrikane Kingcole stopped the timer in 1:48.3 (:26.4). Panther Hanover was second, Simply Business was third and All Steinam was closing for fourth.

Hurrikane Kingcole is a three-year-old colt pacer by Cam’s Card Shark, out of the mare Blazing Yankee by Western Ideal. He is owned by J. Kuhen, John Levy Racing, Klee Cohen and Hurrikane Racing, trained by John McDermott and Yannick Gingras was in the bike.

Rockaround Sue Dominates in Miss New Jersey Elim

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ— Rockaround Sue took the field wire-to-wire to win the $20,000 Thomas D’Altrui SBOA Miss New Jersey elimination in 1:52. Sarandon Blue Chip finished second, Air Guitar Hanover was third and Child’s Play finished fourth.

Rockaround Sue took the lead, with Carolsideal getting away second and Child’s Play sat third. Rockaround Sue took them by the quarter in :27.3. No change in order until the half as Sarandon Blue Chip came first over in :56.4.

Into the far turn, Rockaround Sue drew off to a 3 length lead approaching three-quarters. Sarandon Blue Chip was closing first over and Carolsideal was fading. Child’s Play found racing room up the cones at three-quarters in 1:24.2.

Rockaround Sue was impassible coming into the stretch. Air Guitar Hanover fanned off cover and Sarandon Blue Chip was trying to close. Child’s Play was coming up the rail but Andy Miller was easing Rockaround Sue down to the finish and she won in 1:52. Sarandon Blue Chip was second, Air Guitar Hanover was third and Child’s Play finished fourth.

Rockaround Sue is a three-year-old pacing filly by Rocknroll Hanover, out of the mare Promysquous by Pro Bono Best. She is owned by Uncirculated Stable, Alan Alber and Tony Alagna, Tony Alagna trains and Andy Miller was in the bike to win in 1:52.  

Time To Roll Holds Off Rollnlikeabigshot to Win ‘Classic’ Elim

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ— Time To Roll went wire-to-wire to win the first elimination of the Anthony Abbatiello SBOA New Jersey Classic in 1:50. Rollnlikeabigshot finished second, Ideal Champ was third and Verdad finished fourth.

Time To Roll took the lead, with Ideal Champ sitting second and Shakerattlenrock sat third. Time To Roll took them by the quarter in :26.2.

Time To Roll lead the field approaching the half. Shakerattlenrock came first over and moved into second and Verdad followed cover. Ideal Champ was locked in at the cones in third. Time To Roll paced the half in :54.2 (:28).

Around the far turn, Time To Roll lead by a half a length. Shakerattlenrock was faltering first over and Verdad fanned off cover. Time To Roll paced by three-quarters in 1:22.3 (:28.1).

Time To Roll started to draw off in the stretch. Ideal Champ found racing room and Rollnlikeabigshot was closing from last. Time To Roll had too much in the tank and strolled home to win in 1:50 (:27.2). Rollnlikeabigshot was second, Ideal Champ was third and Verdad was fourth.

Time To Roll is a three-year-old colt pacer by Rocknroll Hanover out of the mare Kikikatie by Real Artist. She is owned by Lothlorien, trained by Jimmy Takter and Andy Miller was in the sulky to win in 1:50. 

Destiny’s Chance Receives Redemption in Second Adioo Volo

WASHINGTON, PA— After four failed efforts against stakes company, Destiny’s Chance got the best of the field to win the second division of the Adioo Volo in 1:51.1. Marty Party was second and Real Touch was third.

Podges Lady took the lead around the first turn. Real Touch pulled the pocket and cleared the top at the quarter in :27.1.

Real Touch was the tempo setter at the half in :55.4 (:28.3). Destiny’s Chance came first over and applied pressure at the five-eighths. Marty Party followed cover and locked at the cones was Podges Lady. Real Touch lead by three-quarters in 1:23.1 (:27.2).

Into the stretch, Real Touch gave way to Destiny’s Chance on the outside. Podges Lady came up the passing lane and Marty Party was closing three wide. They did not have enough to catch Destiny’s Chance as she paced the mile in 1:51.1 (:28).

Destiny’s Chance is a three-year-old filly by Four Starzzz Shark out of the mare Four Starz Sands by The Panderosa. She is owned by Randy Ringer, trained by Ron Burke and Tony Hall was in the bike to score in 1:51.1.