There are two things that Jacksons Image does well; leave and win. And the seven-time 2016 victor held to form, doing both while capturing the $10,000 feature for conditioned pacers on opening day at Plainridge Park on Monday afternoon.

A packed apron of racing fans watched as Jim Hardy flew off the gate with Jacksons Image and outdueled Destination Moon N (Eddie Davis, Jr.) for the lead, clearing by the quarter in :27. Hardy then grabbed leather to the half and eventually forced an outer flow led by Rooster Rabbit (Bruce Aldrich, Jr.), who towed 3-5 favourite Quick Shot (Greg Merton) behind him.

As the six-pack passed three-quarters in 1:26.4, they were three in and three out with the persistent Rooster Rabbit applying direct pressure to the leader. With Aldrich rocking and knocking down the lane, Rooster Rabbit continued to make up ground, but Jacksons Image was game under Hardy’s urging and denied the late charge to win by a neck in 1:55.3.

It was the first start and win of the year for Jacksons Image ($8.80) and his 21st victory in 60 lifetime starts. The five-year-old gelded son of Rockin Image is owned by Michael Feinberg of Lynn, MA and is trained by Jim Hardy.

In the $8,500 co-featured pace, Cherokee Hiflyzane ($16.80) upset Yonkers invader Tyler (Greg Merton) by launching a furious stretch drive and making up three lengths to win in 1:53.4. The winner is owned by Roger Farrar II and Barrie Farrar, both of Wrentham, MA. Barrie Farrar is the trainer.

Bruce Aldrich, Jr. scored the driving hat-trick on Monday while Ron Cushing and Greg Merton each doubled up. Trainer Danny Gill also sent two of his students to the winner’s enclosure for pictures.

Racing resumes at Plainridge Park on Tuesday with post time for the first race set at 4 p.m.

(Plainridge Park)