Abandoning his usual front running style, In Runaway Bay went from worst to first to capture the $10,000 Open Handicap pace at Batavia Downs on Saturday night (Oct. 28).
Show Stopping (John Cummings Jr.) was the horse that wanted the front and he got it after some effort in :27.4. When he cleared, Cummings was able to get a second panel breather before an outer flow developed.
Miss Irish Rose A (Larry Stalbaum) came first up with Rock Fame (Ron Beback Jr.) and In Runaway Bay (Kevin Cummings) right behind. When the race hit three-quarters in 1:25.2 In Runaway Bay found himself three-deep with a full head of steam. The race turned for home with In Runaway Bay running away from the competition down the stretch and eventually winning by two-lengths in 1:54.1.
Now boasting $36,060 in winnings on the strength of seven wins this year, In Runaway Bay ($17.60) has been stellar for owner Super Mile LLC and trainer Angelo Nappo.
Drew Monti and Ray Fisher Jr. each had three driving wins during the night while Billy Davis Jr. and Larry Stalbaum both had two.
Live harness racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday afternoon at 5:00 p.m.
(with files from Batavia)