Overcoming the second tier, Franks Angel flew off cover to land a 17-1 upset in the $13,000 Preferred 2 & 3 Handicap Trot at The Raceway at Western Fair District on Friday (Feb. 18).
Power And Grace, the 7-5 favourite, grabbed the lead from post 7 to a :29 first quarter while driver Jason Ryan settled Franks Angel into sixth, avoiding the break by pylon-starter Jayport Hi Class at the gate’s folding. Esquire pulled first over out of fourth heading to a 1:00.2 half, giving Franks Angel cover to follow with a lap to go.
Esquire marched uncovered after Power And Grace to three-quarters in 1:29.1, taking over the lead heading to the final turn. Franks Angel continued forward while uncovered coming for home and overpowered Esquire in the lane, edging a half length in front at the line. Scene A Magician rallied for third and Power And Grace faded to fourth.
A five-year-old gelding by Archangel, Franks Angel won his 13th race from 56 starts, pushing his earnings to $118,485. Dagfin Henrikson trains the $37.10 winner for owner Dr. Michael Venneri.
To view Friday’s harness racing results, click the following link: Friday Results – Western Fair Raceway.