BERLIN, Md. — Two weeks ago, Sinatra De Vie (Southwind Frank) sustained a first-over attack to wear down Coventry Hall. Wednesday’s (June 19)’s $10,000 Open Trot at Ocean Downs was the stage for a resounding encore performance from the 4-year-old gelding, who employed identical tactics against the same pacesetting rival and achieved an identical result, defeating Coventry Hall in 1:54.3 for his second win in as many tries this meet.
Meet-leading driver Johnathan Ahle, who led all drivers with five wins on the 12-race card, settled Sinatra De Vie in fourth as Coventry Hall (driven by Trae Porter) pushed clear of Judge Bob (Jonathan Roberts) to control early splits of :28 and :57.3.
Sinatra De Vie began his first-over ascent just before the half-mile mark, advanced steadily on the clubhouse turn, and pushed forward to take the lead over Coventry Hall at three-quarters in 1:26.
The pair dueled around the far turn, but Sinatra De Vie edged clear in the final sixteenth to win by two lengths, securing his sixth win of the season and 14th overall for owner-trainer Eric Foster. Judge Bob was third.
Ahle also won with Alexis’ Fraternity ($41.80, 1:57.3), Team Kiwi N ($5.60, 1:56.4), Fancy Like That ($3.60, 1:54.2) and Slim Fast ($4.20, 1:58.3).
Live racing returns to Ocean Downs on Thursday (June 20); the first of 12 races is due off at 7:05 p.m. EDT.
For complete race results, click here: US Trotting results.
From Ocean Downs