Energetic Hanover circled the pack three-wide at the top of the stretch and won the $37,162 Blue Hen/Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday night (Feb. 15).
Sparks were flying early. Mack bullied his way to the top and parked out Sprocket to the opening quarter in a blazing :26. Even-money favourite I Did It Myway left from post eight but was out-hustled pacing to the quarter and retreated to fifth along the pylons. Sprocket’s engines were roaring as he took command after being parked out and passed the half in :54.
I Did It Myway took up the chase up the backstretch, charging hard first-up with Energetic Hanover following in second-over and Belmont Royale N shadowing third-over. Sprocket remained strong and continued to lead the field to the three-quarters in 1:21.4. As I Did It Myway began to tire moving into the lane, Energetic Hanover tipped three-wide and stormed home to win by 2-3/4 lengths in 1:50.1. Sprocket raced gamely and settled for second. Belmont Royale N closed to finish third. I Did It Myway finished a beaten sixth.
George Napolitano Jr. drove Energetic Hanover, a son of Captaintreacherous-Eloquent Grace who paid $7.80 to win, for owner Sam Bowie and trainer Tony Alagna.
Driver Tim Tetrick and trainer Chuck Crissman Jr. both fashioned triples.
Bally’s Dover races Monday through Thursday with a daily post time of 4:30 p.m.
(With files from Bally's Dover)