Penzance Hanover dominating Open ranks; Jokic at Dover

Penzance Hanover (Somebeachsomewhere) won back-to-back races in the $27,500 Blue Hen/Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday night (Jan. 26).

Harness racing driver Art Stafford Jr. drove a tactical race and put Penzance Hanover in perfect position.

Grand Cayman sprinted off the gate from post seven and grabbed the early lead.  Penzance Hanover also left, settled, then rushed to the top passing the quarter in :27.1.

Art Stafford Jr. was able to throttle the speed of Penzance Hanover and backed the half off in :56 seconds flat. A :28.4 quarter.

Heinikin Bythebay marched 1st over past the half.  Backstreet Shadow shadowed that cover. Penzance Hanover continued on the lead and accelerated to the three quarters in 1:23.3 and posted a :27.3 quarter.

In the stretch, the betting race favorite, Penzance Hanover, drew off to win by 1 1/4 lengths. He paced the mile in 1:51.1 with a last quarter in :27.3. He paid $6.00 for the win.

PENZANCE HANOVER REPLAY

Penzance Hanover is owned, trained and driven by Art Stafford Jr of Felton, Delaware.

Grand Cayman sat the pocket but could not gain on the winner and finished 2nd for trainer Crissy Crissman-Bier. George Naploitano Jr drove. Backstreet Shadow closed to finish 3rd for trainer Jim King Jr. Tim Tetrick drove.

Racing continues on Monday at Bally’s Dover Post Time is 4:30 pm.

For complete race results, click here.

by Alex Kraszewski, for Bally’s Dover