The Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi, and the JJK Stables' Lucky Bettor ($5.60) narrowly prevailed in the featured $28,000 Winners Over Pace on Sunday, November 7 at Chester Racetrack. He dug in gamely for a 1:51.1 victory.

The six-year-old Bettors Delight gelding was unopposed while setting a leisurely early pace. He reached the opening half in :56.3 and kept the pace under similar control for another eighth of a mile.

Approaching the far turn, Smellthecolornine (driven by Tim Tetrick) angled first-over to press the pace. He gained steadily on the far turn and gave chase through a frantic sprint home inside the eighth pole.

Not only did Lucky Bettor have to defend his lead against Smellthecolornine, but Riggins (David Miller) -- who tracked from the pocket throughout -- unleashed a vicious late kick up the open stretch.

Lucky Bettor, all-out in the final strides, did prevail after a lengthy photo examination. Riggins finished second and Smellthecolornine was a tough third. Clear Vision (Andy Miller) was a solid fourth.

Yannick Gingras drove Lucky Bettor for trainer Ron Burke.

Warning Zone ($12.40) was equally impressive, when he captured a $19,000 conditioned event in 1:49.4. He stalked a grueling early pace and made a strong move on the backstretch. Eric Goodell drove for trainer Rick Bilach.

Deadline For Late Closer Nominations Looms

Nominations for the Road to Riches Late Closing Series are due in one week's time, November 15. The nomination blank can be found here. For more information, contact the race office at 484-490-2222.

Chester Schedule Changes

Horsepeople and punters alike should be advised that Chester has dropped Sunday racing for the month of December and has removed the scheduled December 5 and 12 programs.

Likewise, Chester will conduct live cards on December 20 (Monday), 21 (Tuesday), and 22 (Wednesday). Post time for all those cards shall remain at 12:45 p.m.

(Chester)