After yielding command to Redneck Jim with a circuit to go, the J J J Stables' Comes Home First ($16.60) rallied to narrowly prevail in the Boxing Day (Dec. 26) feature at Fraser Downs, an $8,500 optional claiming pace.
The seven-year-old Brandons Cowboy gelding was sent to the fore by Kelly Hoerdt from the outset before yielding to Redneck Jim (Scott Knight) after a :27.4 first quarter. After stalking a decelerating pace through a :59.1 half, Redneck Jim faced a first-over push from 9-5 favourite Sabine Pass (Paul Davies) and was forced to accelerate through a :28 third quarter.
Turning for home, Hoerdt hooked Comes Home First three-wide off duelling leaders, and the pair lifted to reach by a neck in 1:57 over sloppy going. Redneck Jim was second, while Sabine Pass was a levelled-off third.
Jim Marino trains Comes Home First, now a 23-time winner.
To view Wednesday's harness racing results, click the following link: Wednesday Results – Fraser Downs.