The Great Northeast Series rolled on Sunday, May 13 at Harrah's Philadelphia with the open pacers in action going for a purse of $30,000 each.

The day belonged to the Jake Leamon-trainee Rockeyed Optimist in his third start of the season. The seven-year-old gelded son of Rocknroll Hanover sat behind the speed of early pace-setter Barimah A before beginning a first-over grind just shy of the half. After a spirited battle for the lead, Rockeyed Optimist sustained his bid, winning by a neck in 1:50.2 over Always At My Place rallying late. Feeling Cam Lucky finished third. The fractions were :26.4, :56, and 1:23.1, with a final time of 1:50.2.

Rockeyed Optimist wins for the 31st time in his career for the ownership group of Perretti, Berkner, Battaglia, and the A&B Stables. His earnings are now over $625,000. He was driven by Brett Miller.

At the start of division two, the two outside horses were put into play early. Western Fame crossed over from post 8, but was quickly overtaken by Rodeo Romeo. After enjoying a mostly uncontested lead, he was engaged by Heaven Rocks A at the eighth pole, but gamely held off the overseas import to win by a nose in 1:49.4. Boston Red Rocks finished third.

It was the 13th career win for the six-year-old son of Rocknroll Hanover, and his fourth win in his last five starts and his second-straight win in the series. He is owned by Oompa's Farm and Bob Mondillo, and trained by Chris Ryder. George Napolitano Jr. was in the bike.

(With files from Harrah's Philadelphia)