Statesman N was bet down to favouritism in the Preferred Handicap Pace at Freehold Raceway on Saturday (Feb. 1) and lived up to his 8-5 billing, as he went on to win by a length.
Driver Joe Bongiorno took Statesman N back in the early stages, sitting in fourth most of the mile. As they neared the five-eighths point, Bongiorno activated his charge, sending him first over after early leader Machtu. Statesman N grabbed firm control as they turned for home and, despite a late rally from Vapour, had enough for the victory. The mile went 1:53.2 over a "fast" track.
Statesman N is co-owned by Joe and Jenn Bongiorno; Jenn handles the training. This was the first start of the year for the 13-year-old veteran and his 50th win. In 261 races, he's won 50 times while bankrolling more than $890,000.
Statesman's win was one of three for Bongiorno on the Saturday card. He also won race 9 with J M Mandarin and race 10 with Hardts or Bettor. The former gave Jenn a training double; Mike Russo trained the latter.
Rancousy, Exit Cam, Fox Valley Inferno, Machtu, and Declan Seelster completed the order of finish.
Live racing resumes at Freehold on Thursday (Feb. 6) starting at 12:30 p.m. EST.
(Freehold Raceway)