The duo got the job done in 1:50.3 after an eye-opening backside blast that sent Rebellious from fourth to the lead in ‘the blink of an eye.’
The five-year-old gelded son of Mach Three earned his 13th win of the year (and 32nd lifetime) and capped the mile with a :26.3 final quarter. He defeated American Hustle and driver Kevin Wallis by one and a half lengths. Ideal Feeling and driver Rick Plano finished third. Panocchio and Rocksapatriot earned the final awards in the classy sextet.
As the wings folded, American Hustle hustled his way to the front and took the field to the opener in :27.1 and maintained the lead half way through in :55.3. With three eighths of a mile to go, Hennessey sent Rebellious winging forward and, in just a few seconds, forged his way to the front and on to the win.
“I’ve been in this business a long time and, without question, this horse can pace as fast as any I have ever driven for an eighth of a mile,” Hennessey said after the race. “And to think he came home in :26.3 after that...just fantastic.”
Owned by trainer Deters along with Joel Warner, Rebellious has banked $112,545 this season and $267,386 lifetime.
As second choice in the betting, Rebellious paid $6.20 to win.
Hennessey was also in the bike for two other speedy winners--Feelin Lika Winner and Mcjagersonthemove.
Prior to the pari-mutuel program, a large throng of drivers, trainers, owners and fans gathered in the winner's circle to honour the memory of Veral Robert Bowman, a longtime horseman who was respected as a “great horseman and greater man," as Jim McDonald remembered.
Bowman's wife of 59 years, Patsy, and sons Ted and Mike were among those attending the festivities.
Pompano racing will continue on Monday night. Post time is set for 7:20 p.m.
(With files from Pompano Park)