Hugh Heff becomes sole North America wins leader

Hugh Heff (Betterthancheddar) claimed sole leadership of the seasonal North American harness racing win standings in a last-to-first victory in the Winners-Over at Northside Downs on Saturday (Sep. 14).

Tied with Need Ur Opinion at 17 wins heading into the race, he dropped back to seventh for driver Randy Getto while Thunder Alley (John Kennedy), one of the track’s top open horses, set an opening quarter of :28. Hugh Heff got underway as the field turned for the stands, catching cover second-over behind Shir Gain (Rodney Gillis).

Hugh Heff loomed two lengths back on the outside as Shir Gain and Hugh Heff battled through three-quarters in 1:27.1, and he made it three-abreast as they entered the final turn. Hugh Heff struck the front at the top of the stretch and drew clear by a length-and-a-quarter to score in 1:58.

Keeperoftherealm (Ryan Campbell) closed up the pylons to take the place spot over Thunder Alley, who was third.

HUGH HEFF REPLAY

Hugh Heff reached six digits in career earnings with the victory, his fourth straight and 18th of the season. He is undefeated for trainer Dana Getto and owners Randy Getto, Susan Macsween, and Wayne Hardy, who acquired the gelding last month. The four-year-old has earned $100,301 and won 26 times in 66 outings.

Need Ur Opinion will have his chance to level the score in race two tomorrow at Harrah’s Philadelphia, where he is the 5/2 morning line favourite.

Ryan Campbell drove three of the day’s 10 winners.

Northside Downs will host its next card on Saturday, Sep. 21.

For complete race results, click here.

by Nicholas Barnsdale, for Harnesslink