Despite some bad luck, it turned out to be a good night for Goodnite Goodluck at Batavia Downs Saturday (Nov. 9) as he scored an impressive one and a half length victory over Veto Hanover in the $8,500 Open Pace in 1:55.2 over a fast track.
Things looked bleak for Goodnite Goodluck ($6.20) in the beginning as the pacesetting Rush Rules (Rock Vinci) had the winner in long-term parking for nearly three-quarters of a mile. But Goodnite Goodluck (Ron Beback Jr.) didn't drop anchor despite the long trip. He showed plenty of heart, clearing the field at the three-quarter marker and paced away with little threat from runner-up Veto Hanover (Shawn McDonough) and third-place finisher Dontgetinskyway (David McNeight III) in the stretch.
The win was the third straight for Goodnite Goodluck and ninth on the season. He is owned by Mark Jakubik and trained by J.D. Perrin, who conditioned three winners on the night. The win put Goodnite Goodluck's seasonal earnings to $64,760 and $287,147 lifetime.
Reinsman Ray Fisher Jr. led all drivers on the card with three winners while Shawn McDonough, Dave McNeight III and Ron Beback Jr. all had doubles.
Harness racing action returns on Wednesday night with a 12-race program slated to begin at 6:30 p.m. The $8,500 Fillies & Mares Open Pace will be the featured event with Artsy Princess the 5-2 morning line choice. Kevin Cummings will be in the sulky.
(Batavia Downs)