Late-charging Penzance Hanover takes Open

Penzance Hanover (Somebeachsomewhere) benefitted from a perfect journey and won the harness racing Blue Hen/Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday night.

Mack and Penzance Hanover launched off the wings of the gate for the early advantage. Energetic Hanover joined the party and rushed to the top and passed opening quarter in 26.3  Penzance Hanover retreated to the pocket.  Energetic Hanover and George Napolitano Jr slowed down the pace, reaching the half in 55.4, a 29.1 quarter.

Baba O’Riley moved 1st over past the half and was joined by Belmont Royale N, who raced 2nd over on the rim and in hot pursuit of the pace setter

Energetic Hanover braced for the challenge and passed the three quarters in 1:23.2 (27.3)  Penzance Hanover, the 6/5 betting favorite, waited patiently to time his move. Driver Art Stafford Jr was able to surge late along the pylons and won by a length and a half.  The ten year old, paced the mile in 1:52 for his second consecutive victory. He paid $4.40 for the win.

Penzance Hanover is owned, trained and driven by Arthur Stafford Jr of Felton, Delaware.

Jack’s Shadow N closed well to finish 2nd. Mack saved ground along the pylons and finished 3rd.