Backstreet Shadow won the $27,500 Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday night (Feb. 2).

Penzance Hanover and Whitecookie were in a private duel as they were launched from the starting gate. Whitecookie was able to clear Penzance Hanover for the early lead but not before pacing a vicious opening quarter in :25.3. Penzance Hanover, off as the favourite at 6-5, accepted the pocket grudgingly.  Backstreet Shadow floated and secured a seat into the fourth position pacing to the quarter.

Whitecookie continued on the lead and scorched the half in :54. Driver Tim Tetrick edged Backstreet Shadow off the pylons in mid-stretch. It was a well-timed move as Whitecookie became leg weary and tired. Penzance Hanover was trapped on the inside without any place to go. Backstreet Shadow was in high gear passing the three quarters in 1:22.1. In the stretch, Backstreet Shadow encountered company, as Wager On Me shot through the open stretch and Stag Party rallied on the outside. Backstreet Shadow was all heart and grit as he held on to win by a hard earned half length. He won in 1:50.4.

Backstreet Shadow, an eight-year-old son of Shadow Play, is owned by Robert Di Nozzi. Jim King Jr. trains the $5.60 winner.

George Napolitano Jr. scored three driving victories on the betting card.

Racing continues on Monday (Feb. 6) at Bally’s Dover. Post time is 4:30 p.m. (EST).

(Bally's Dover)