Freehold Raceway hosted its annual St. Patrick's Day Race on Friday (March 17).  In the third race on the card, every horse was driven by a driver of Irish descent. 

While many of the drivers were familiar faces at Freehold Raceway, James Whelan and his nephew Michael Whelan made the trip from Canada to join the festivities.

Freehold's very own 'Irish' Joe Hanney took home the win and bragging rights over his fellow countrymen.  Hanney left from the rail position with Sheeza Shark N to take a seat behind the odds-on favourite Eden Paige N and Jim Marohn Jr.  Hanney pulled Sheeza Shark N at the top of the lane after a perfect pocket trip to take the win in 1:57.4.

The 13-year-old mare is owned and trained by Laurie Molnar.

Eden Paige N finished second with Macjectic Toddy N and Steve Smith closing for third.

Freehold resumes live racing on Saturday (March 18).

(SBOANJ)