Backstreet Shadow backers get rewarded

Backstreet Shadow (Shadow Play) showed his harness racing back class and won the $27,500 Blue Hen Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday night, January 12, 2023.

After being a disappointment in 3 previous tries, Backstreet Shadow, the betting favorite with Tim Tetrick driving, rewarded his backers and trainer Jim King Jr with the victory. The track surface was listed sloppy but speed favoring throughout the evening.

Island Of The Sea, left alertly and protected the rail position before reaching the quarter in :27.  Grand Cayman was parked then rushed to the top after the quarter.  Grand Cayman, loose on the lead, passed the half in :56 seconds, a :29 flat quarter.

Backstreet Shadow moved 1st up from fourth and steamrolled past pace setter Grand Cayman at the five eighth marker. Penzance Hanover followed 2nd over down the backstretch but his bid stalled.

Backstreet Shadow was able to impose his will on the field in the stretch and won throttled down by 3 1/4 lengths in 1:50.4. He paid $3.00 as the betting favorite.

BACKSTREET SHADOW REPLAY

Backstreet Shadow is owned by Robert Di Nozzi of Katonah N.Y.

Grand Cayman held on to finish 2nd for trainer Crissy Crissman-Bier.  George Napolitano Jr. drove. Mack, who was loaded with pace late, finished 3rd for trainer Joe Columbo and driver Ross Wolfenden.

Two drivers hit grand slams on the night.  Tim Tetrick and George Napolitano, Jr. drove four winners each on the 14-race betting card.

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