'Pointblank' Upsets In Classicality Trot

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Lightly regarded at 10-1, Pointblank Hanover seized the lead with an uncovered backside bid and rolled on to the upset in Tuesday’s $33,100 championship of the Classicality Trot for three-year-old colts and geldings at The Meadows.

Pointblank Hanover’s uneven performances in recent outings had prompted Ron Burke, who trains the SJs Caviar-Puffed-Up gelding, to switch from blinkers to an open bridle for the Classicality. But after two lackluster efforts in preliminary legs — he finished fourth and fifth — regular driver Tony Hall had an idea.

“He was more controllable with the open bridle, but he was just going through the motions in the race,” Hall said. “I asked Ron if he could throw the blinkers on him. Even though he’s a little more rank with them, he has more go to him. I figured they would be going some fractions today so I really wouldn’t have to fight him that much.

“They liked the way he trained with the blinkers. He really responded to them today. He’s a decent horse. He just gets a little hot sometimes.”

When Hall moved him from fourth, Pointblank Hanover swept past the leader, 7-5 favourite Breedlove, and drew off to score in a career-best 1:55.3. Breedlove saved place, 3-3/4 lengths back, while Meadowbranch Memo rallied for show.

The win brought Hall his second series championship in as many days, as he captured Monday’s final of the Do Me Honor Pace with Wasaga Beach. Burke Racing Stable LLC, Weaver Bruscemi LLC and RTC Stables campaign Pointblank Hanover.

The $22,500 Filly & Mare Winners Over $10,000 Life/Preferred Handicap Trot also brought an upset, as 20-1 Princess Pablano moved first over and wore down the leaders to triumph in 1:54.3 for Mike Wilder, trainer Tyler Stillings and owner Rags To Riches of PA. Barn Girl shot the Lightning Lane for second, with early leader Anaffairtoremember third. The six-year-old daughter of Holy Guacamolie-CR Princess Bride now boasts $252,148 in lifetime earnings.

Wilbur Yoder piloted three winners — all with horses he trains — on the 15-race card.

Wednesday’s program at The Meadows features the $31,300 championship of the Whata Donato Trot for three-year-old fillies. First post is 1 p.m.

(The Meadows)

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