The annual Miami Valley “Survivor Series” for male $5,000 claimers got underway on Monday (Feb. 1) afternoon with eight divisions of 10 horses, each going for a $5,000 purse.

The top five finishers from each elimination race advance to round two next Monday (Feb. 8), when the purses will be $6,000 Round three will feature the 20 horses still standing chasing $7,500 purses, and the series will culminate with a $20,000 championship tilt on Monday, Feb. 22.

A total of 10 of the 80 horses in round one were claimed. They will be the only ones carrying claiming tags in round two, but with a 30 per cent premium added to their base prices.

The quickest winner from the eight first round heats was Dovuto Hanover (Brady Galliers), who clocked a 1:55.2 mile and returned a $5.60 win mutuel. Others who triumphed were 14-year-old Montana Pablo A (Trace Tetrick, 1:56, $2.80), Sammonsletsroll (Shawn Barker, 1:56.4, $7.60), Guns An Roses (Brandon Bates, 1:56.2, $3.60), Century Chancellor (Sam Widger, 1:56.1, $5.60), Seen Before Heard (Widger, 1:56.3, $5.80), Skip Jive (Jimmy Whittemore, 1:56.1, $4.40), and Monte Cristo (Joey Putnam, $15) — who was placed first when winner Beach House (1:55.2) drifted in the lane and caused interference.

Racing resumes Tuesday (Feb. 2) at Miami Valley, when three divisions of the first leg of a similar Survivor Series for $5,000 claiming mares will be contested. Post time is 2:05 p.m.

Miami Valley has moved up post time for next Sunday (Feb. 7) to 12:05 p.m. — two hours earlier than normal to allow patrons, horsemen and staff to enjoy the Super Bowl later in the day.

(Miami Valley Raceway)