Papa Ray survived a first-over journey en route to posting a gutsy win in Thursday’s $25,000 Delaware Special at Dover Downs.
Eddie Davis moved the Village Jolt-Liamatters six-year-old to the outside in front of the grandstand and began his surge to catch front-pacing Just A Jolt. Working his way alongside the leader, they raced as a team around the final turn before Papa Ray forged to the front and rushed to the wire in 1:51.3 for his second win in three starts and third in his last five for trainer Wayne Givens and owners Reg Hazzard and Legacy Racing. Just A Jolt held on to finish second with Dont Ya Know coming on for third.
Papa Ray was purchase two years ago from the Ron Burke Stable and has become a local standout. The brown horse has now won 23 times and earned $384,628 in his career.
Shark Fantasy, a 10-1 shot piloted by Jonathan Roberts, used a strong stretch kick to win the $16,000 Open Pace in 1:51.3.Framed Art passed leader Bluehourpower in mid-stretch, but was out-brushed by Shark Fantasy approaching the finish line. Framed Art finished second, with third prize going to Bluehourpower.
Co-owner Joshua Parker trains the Four Starzzz-Fantasizer gelding for partners Spedden, Evans and Nanticoke Racing.
(Dover Downs)