Believe This Bob stormed past Nova Artist in deep stretch at Dover Downs to win Thursday’s $27,500 Delaware Special Handicap in a lifetime best 1:50.1.

Tim Tetrick took Jeremys Successor into an early lead, only to succumb to a strong challenge from the Allan Davis-driven Nova Artist at the three-quarters. Believe This Bob had followed Nova Artist on the outside and was able to find room second as Jeremeys Successor faltered.

On the turn for home Montrell Teague urged Believe This Bob alongside and then on to a 1:50.1 victory in the week’s top pace. Nova Artist held for second and All Stienam, driven by Ross Wolfenden, finished third.

Mary Ann Larrimore owns Believe This Bob, now trained by Joe Skowyra. It was the first win of the year in three starts for the Beach Romeo-Believe That Gal gelding who won for the 17th time in his career, raising his earnings to $166,236.

(Dover Downs)