After never being in contention from an impossible spot last week, Therewasthisgirl bounced back in a big way to win the $25,000 Winners-Over pacing feature for fillies and mares at Plainridge Park on Tuesday afternoon (Oct. 10).
Wahs Fire Bug N (Kevin Switzer Jr.) was the first to lead the scratch-shortened field of five and got the girls to the quarter in a tailored swift :26.3. Therewasthisgirl (Nick Graffam) had a pocket journey lined up but was not content, and pulled in front of the stands to take command before the half. Therewasthisgirl hastened the group to three-quarters with a :27.3 backside sprint and had no serious threat looming from behind. When they reached the top of the stretch, Wahs Fire Bug N tipped to try and advance, but she drifted wide and did not gain ground so Therewasthisgirl cruised across the line on top by a length in 1:51.1.
Owned by the George Ducharme Stable and Heather Marshall, Therewasthisgirl ($9) picked up her third win in her last five starts and fifth win overall this year from 19 races. George Ducharme trains the winner.
The $20,000 Winners-Over undercard pace went to Hilaria (Mike Stevenson), who upset the field with a first-over move at three-quarters that gave her a lead she would not relinquish en route to a 1:53.2 victory. Hilaria ($33.20) is owned and trained by Ralph Andersen.
Drivers Matty Athearn and Heath Campbell each had two wins on Tuesday. Campbell’s charges were both trained by Valerie Grondin, who led all trainers during the proceedings.
Live harness racing will resume at Plainridge Park on Thursday, Oct. 12 at 2 p.m. and there will be a $31,293 carryover in the Wicked Hi-5 pentafecta wager in race six.
(With files from Plainridge Park)