A day of firsts for AHDC

Things sometimes happen in bunches and that certainly was the case for Silvermass Volo and driver Maria de Bruijn.

As Sunday’s winner of the American Harness Drivers Club (AHDC) amateur trot at Mohegan Sun Pocono Downs on Sunday 8/8, Silvermass Volo won his first race in two years, leading the field past the wire in 1:56:3. But to top that, it was Maria de Bruijn’s first lifetime win as a driver!

As is often the case in the amateur trot, there was plenty of early speed when the gate sprung. Ursis Des Callions and Tony Ciuffetelli rushed to the lead from post two quickly seating Hititoutofthepark guided by Steve Oldford into the pocket spot.

Sweetheart AS with Linda Schadel was forced to drop in 4th, leaving just French Moni with Paul Minore to challenge the leader at the quarter pole. And when he came knocking, there was no answer as Tony Ciuffetelli was intent on keeping the front end all to himself.

Heading past the half and up the backside, Ursis Des Callions was traveling along smoothly but then as French moni who was parked the entire way started to fade, Maria de Bruijn squeezed Silvermass Volo off the pylons and began a strong first over bid that the leader had no answers for.

The duo of first time winners cleared to the lead at the top of the stretch and had no anxious moments on their way to inaugural victories. Ursis Des Callions was able to hold off a late charging Cimeronken with David Glasser for the Place spot.

SILVERMASS VOLO REPLAY

Silvermass Volo was making only his fourth start of the season and won following two strong third place finishes from outside posts in weeks past.

The first time winner paid $11.60, $5.00 and $2.80 to his faithful supporters.

AHDC action returns again next Sunday 8/15 at Pocono Downs.

For full race results, click here.

by Tony Verruso, for the AHDC