Popping pocket into the stretch, Neon Moon nailed pacesetter Regal Luck on the wire to take the $8,500 Preferred 3 Pace at The Raceway at Western Fair District by a half length in 2:01.2 on a sloppy night Tuesday, Jan. 8.
Driver Ryan Holliday brushed past rail-starter Insincerity to take the lead rounding the first turn while Regal Luck, tracking from the second tier, ventured towards the lead heading to the opening quarter. Regal Luck cleared before a :29.4 opening split and led unchallenged to a 1:00.2 half and a 1:31 third quarter.
Holliday made his move for the front into the stretch, rallying wide of Regal Luck defending control towards the pylons. The four-year-old Sportswriter mare slid to the lead late to win while Regal Luck settled for second. Insincerity, sitting pocket, finished six lengths back in third.
Owned by Jack Darling Stables and trained by Jack Darling, Neon Moon won her 12th race from 31 starts, earning $154,780. She paid $3.50 to win.
To view Tuesday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Tuesday Results - Western Fair Raceway.