Round two of the Knockout Pacing Series went postward at Kawartha Downs on Thursday, with a pair of $4,000 divisions on tap featuring the top 18 finishers

from last week’s opening leg.

Gran Sasso pulled off an 18-1 upset in his assignment, and he did so in front stepping fashion for the tandem of driver Fred Brethour and owner/trainer Robbie McNeill. The eight-year-old son of The Panderosa, who was on the motor through panels of :28, :58.2 and 1:28, used a :29.2 final frame to win by a neck over race favourite Raging River in a time of 1:57.2. Third prize went to Notorious Pick.

The victory improved Gran Sasso’s 2011 record to 2-2-0 in four tries, and it pushed the 20-time winner’s lifetime earnings to $229,664.

There was a tight finish in the second division, as well, and when the dust settled it was Premium Bliss coming out on top for Team Byron – driver Aaron Byron and owner/trainer Jeff Byron. The five-year-old son of Heartbeat Mindale tracked cover in the final half of the mile before passing a number of leg weary foes in the closing strides en route to the head decision in 2:00.1. Partytime was second best, with Novadane Peppercorn taking home the show dough.

It was the first win of the season for Premium Bliss, who is now a five-time winner in his career. He has banked $45,872 to date.

Kawartha Downs will host the $10,000 final of the Knockout Pacing Series on Thursday, February 17.

To view Thursday’s results, click here.