There wasn't a horse that seemed less likely to win the $23,750 final of the A.W. Capone Memorial Series than B Winner K at the Meadows Monday night. Not only was the youngster winless in 11 previous outings, but he also had drawn Post 9 in the event for freshman trotting colts and geldings. Thus, it was no shock when the public dismissed him at 46-1.
What was shocking was B Winner K's late charge following a snug pocket trip which carried him to a stunning upset of even-money favourite Captain Sully and driver Dave Palone in 1:57.4. Captain Sully saved place, a length in arrears, with Ellisarro Hanover third.
Winning driver Eric Ledford said he didn’t notice the final odds but that the son of SJs Caviar--Brenda B Winnin was “a deserving long shot.”
“He’s got the nine hole, and it’s baby trotters,” Ledford said. “If the favourite had drawn Post 9, that would have taken a lot of play away from him. He’s not been bad the last couple starts, and I’ve been on the front with him the whole mile. This time he actually got to follow David along, and he was pretty good.
“I wanted to secure the two hole behind David’s horse — that was the place to be. He has enough gate speed. I was pretty confident that if we got away well, he would be out front at some time.”
Jim Arledge, Jr. trains and breeder Bob Key owns B Winner K, whom Ledford said has upside potential.
“He has more confidence, so you can actually use him a little more,” he said. “He has high turn of speed, so he does have a shot at going to the next level.”
Making Mischief took the $12,000 Capone consolation in 1:58.3, two lengths better than early leader American Pegasus. Marion Macho rallied for third. Mike Wilder drove the son of Cantab Hall--Yankee Mischief for trainer Roy Mac Davis and owner Brent Davis.
In the $27,500 Filly & Mare Preferred Handicap Pace, Jans Luck scored a front-end victory in 1:52.2. She also survived an inquiry for possible interference. The pocket-sitting Cams Van Go was three-quarters of a length back in second, while Natalie brushed late for show.
Ron Burke trains the five-year-old daughter of Camluck--Jans Scooter. Palone and Burke teamed for five winners on the 16-race card.
(With files from the Meadows)