First-over grind no problem for Funatthebeach N

Funatthebeach N (Somebeachsomewhere), who won nearly $600,000 last season on the strength of ten wins, was able to grind out his first victory of the 2023 harness racing season, capturing the $24,000 feature pace at Yonkers Raceway Tuesday, January 24, 2023.

Stop Staring (Matt Kakaley) was first on the lead at the start of the 7^th race feature. He led the field to the first quarter in :27.2 with Braeview Bondi A (Jim Marohn, Jr.) taking the two-hole spot and Funatthebeach N with driver Jordan Stratton third along the pylons.

They raced single file past the half mile in :57 as Stop Staring continued to lead the way until the early backstretch when Stratton came first-over with Funatthebeach N with Carlisimo (Jason Bartlett) grabbing the second-over cover.

Collaring Stop Staring at the three-quarters in 1:24.3, Funatthebeach N was parked out around the final turn until they started down the stretch. Stop Staring began to fade and Funatthebeach N continued to advance, winning by one and one-half lengths in 1:52.3. Braeview Bondi A was second with Carlisimo (Jason Bartlett) third.

FUNATTHEBEACH N REPLAY

Sent off as the wagering favorite, Funatthebeach N paid $3.20 to win. The nine-year-old gelding is trained by Jeff Gillis for owner Mark Ford.

For complete race results, click here.

by Steve Wolf, for Harnesslink