Felicityshagwell S on top at Yonkers

Felicityshagwell S captured the top harness racing class at Yonkers Raceway for the first time since moving to the United States as she won the $45,000 Open Handicap Trot on Friday.

She motored off the start and persisted on the outside to the front in a :28.3 opening quarter mile. Daniel Dube orchestrated a :58.1 half to give the mare a breather and loosened the reins in the third quarter, allowing her to speed to a 1:26 three-quarter time.

Pocket-sitter Champagne On Ice (Joe Bongiorno) matched pace with the home-bound leader on the far turn but could do no more than follow as Felicityshagwell S trotted to a 1:54 victory.

Champagne On Ice was a length behind in second. Fashion Creditor (Jim Marohn Jr.) enjoyed a ground-saving trip and took show. The win price was $3.10.

FELICITYSHAGWELL S REPLAY

Felicityshagwell S, a daughter of Maharajah, was bred in Sweden. Knutsson Trotting Inc. of Del Ray Beach acquired the six-year-old before the 2020 season and gave her to trainer Ake Svanstedt, who harnessed her in Grand Circuit events. The mare finished second in the Joie De Vie, Armbro Flight, and – in her previous start – the Steele Memorial.

Joe Bongiorno topped all drivers on the evening with five victories.

Yonkers Raceway will be dark for the weekend and return on Monday, Aug. 23 at 7:15 p.m. EDT. Another $45,000 Open Handicap is among the day’s 12 races.

For full race results, click here.

by Nicholas Barnsdale, for Harnesslink