Morrison earns first pari-mutuel win at Cumberland

Corbin, Kentucky, October 23, 2023…Chad Morrison got his very first-pari-mutuel win on Sunday, October 22, piloting Merito Hanover (Bettor’s Delight) to a 1:57.1 win in the $12,000 USHDC pace at Cumberland Run.

Morrison was cool, calm and collected as he came from well off-the-pace with the five-year-old gelding and used a :29 closing kick to score by 2 lengths over Ayr Pioneer GB, driven by Dein Spriggs with Gottalovemyshadow third for Carson Conrad.

The early leader Howtotrainurdragon, driven by Tony Dinges, was fourth while Indiana Cam, teamed up with Scott Mc Quinn, picked up the nickel.

Morrison, 36, has been around horses much of his life but decided to take a stronger position about two years ago in the training sector of the sport.

In lamenting about the win Morrison related, “They were leaving al over the place on both sides of me and I just couldn’t get involved in that so I got away away fifth and the early fractions were pretty hot (:28 and :56.4) with a lot of action up front. I kinda let things play out and found some space to get out and this horse was really rolling once we straightened away. The credit goes to the horse, actually.”

When asked he was after guys like Palone and Miller and Tetrick, Morrison chuckled, “I sure am…but I’d have to live to be 3,000 years old…at least!

“My next one will be as exciting as this one as I love the amateur club but really want to concentrate on the training aspect of the sport and use guys like Palone, Tetrick and MIller, if I ever get the chance!

“I really enjoy working with the horses every day and love seeing that they are healthy and athletic. Caring for them is most important for me!”

Merito Hanover earned his second win of the year in 22 starts and sent his 2023 bankroll to $17,640 and $73,580 lifetime. The winner, trained by Tony Dinges for Dawnelle Mock, paid $14.78 as fourth choice in the betting.

For complete race results, click here: US Trotting results.

by John Berry, for the USHDC