David Hamm and Rodney Long's JJ Flynn ($13.80) braved a first-over grind to narrowly prevail in Sunday afternoon's (Aug. 1) $16,200 top-level pacing feature at Harrah's Philadelphia.

JJ Flynn tracked comfortably from fourth as 3-5 favourite Pyro traded shots with Aflame Hanover through a :26.1 first-quarter duel. Allan Davis gave the eight-year-old Western Ideal gelding his cue to advance as Pyro hit the half in :54.3, and he immediately worked his way alongside the leader before dueling him down in upper stretch. After collaring Pyro, JJ Flynn gave his all in the stretch to withstand a late rally from runner-up Tru Lou, who emerged out of traffic to miss JJ Flynn's 1:50.1 mile by a neck. Pyro finished third.

Chuck Crissman Jr. trains JJ Flynn, a 43-time winner who has earned $657,661 in his career.

Todd McCarthy and Joe Bongiorno led all drivers with three wins apiece on the 14-race card.

Racing at Harrah's Philadelphia resumes Wednesday (Aug. 4); first post is 12:25 p.m. (EDT).

(Harrah's Philadelphia)