Penzance Hanover raced to his third consecutive win in the $37,162 Blue Hen/Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday night (Feb. 29).
A battle royale formed early as three horses vied for the lead approaching the quarter pole. Mack parked out both Belmont Royale N and a three-wide Penzance Hanover passing the opening quarter in :26.2. The gloves were out as Belmont Royale N and the 9-5 betting favourite, Penzance Hanover, continued their private war in front of the stands. Penzance Hanover finally cleared and stormed to the half in :55 as Belmont Royale N surrendered to the pocket and Mack watched the action from third along the pylons. Penzance Hanover was breathing fire as he whistled past the three-quarters in 1:22.3. In the stretch, Penzance Hanover accelerated and won by two lengths in 1:50.1. He paid $5.80 for the win. Mack saved ground and finished second. Belmont Royale N finished third from the pocket.
Penzance Hanover (Somebeachsomewhere-Platinum Hanover) is owned, trained and was driven by Art Stafford Jr.
Stafford and Tim Tetrick drove four winners each on the card, while owners Mulligan Stables and Calcutta Stable also won four races.
Bally’s Dover races Monday through Thursday with a post time of 4:30 p.m.
(With files from Bally's Dover)