Pacino Hanover toughs it out at Pocono Downs

Having to come first-over in the backstretch to take command and then tough it out in the stretch, Pacino Hanover (American Ideal) was up to the task in the $16,000 feature pace Tuesday (Aug. 29) at Pocono Downs.

Flip My Chip (Marcus Miller) was first on the lead to the opening quarter mile in :27.3 and then gave way to Bullville Stephano (Ridge Warren), who led to the half mile in :55.3.

Then it was race favorite Pacino Hanover and driver Matt Kakaley that came first-over in the backstretch and collared Bullville Stephano at the three-quarters in 1:22.3, clearing to the lead on the final turn.

But the race was still on in the stretch as Pacino Hanover had to dig in to hold off Bullville Stephano, who came back on late and finished second by a neck. Time of the time was 1:50.3. Music Hall (Simon Allard) was third.

PACINO HANOVER REPLAY

It was a lifetime mark and the fourth win of the season for Pacino Hanover. The three-year-old colt is trained by Joe Pavia, Jr. for owners Jablonsky Held Stable, Joseph Barbera, Vincent Barbera and Todd Frocione. He paid $2.80 to win.

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

by Steve Wolf, for Harnesslink