Inquiry promotes 35-1 shot to victory

Hally Road (Holiday Road) crossed the line five lengths back in second in the 10th race at The Raceway at the Western Fair District on Friday (Nov. 3), but the mare ended up in the winner’s circle after a disqualification.

Jonathan Hahn landed the mare in the pocket from post four, following My Buddy Sam (Garrett Rooney) through :29.3 and 1:01 panels. My Buddy Sam darted out suddenly as they entered the backstretch, causing M I Radical (Ryan Holliday) to take evasive action.

Hally Road seized the opportunity to advance at the pylons, but My Buddy Sam found his feet again approaching three-quarters in 1:32.1 and soared clear of the rest. He cruised to the line with five lengths between him and Hally Road in 2:02.3.

The judges launched an inquiry quickly after the finish and, after an eight-minute review, determined that My Buddy Sam was guilty of interference and placed him fifth behind M I Radical. Painted By Matisse (Preston Shaw), a 36-1 shot, was promoted to second. P C Mercury Rising (Curtis Clements) moved up to third. The winning exactor returned $587.80, and the $1 triactor paid $4,276.70.

The victory gave Hally Road her second tally in 40 career starts for owner/trainer/breeder Fred Freer of Petrolia. The six-year-old mare has earned $28,446 lifetime.

Paul Mackenzie won three races on the card and was the evening’s top driver.

The Raceway at the Western Fair District will host racing next on Monday, Nov. 6.

For complete race results, click here.

by Nicholas Barnsdale, for Harnesslink