Driver Yannick Gingras and trainer Ron Burke scored in the $20,000 Preferred Handicap Pace with Starznheaven by a nose over Bettor’s Edge in 1:50.2 on Saturday, Feb. 3.
Gingras, who also won the Friday night feature with trotter Theresademoninme, was patient with Starznheaven, who was sent at 22-1, sitting fifth to the half as Western Joe and Bettor’s Edge exchanged stints on the front.
The Ross Croghan-trained Hug The Wind N, made the 2-1 betting choice, moved first-over past five-eighths as Starznheaven picked up cover.
Gingras tipped Starznheaven off his cover in mid-stretch, battling four others for the lead. Bettor's Edge and Hug The Wind N battled on the front, while Endeavor and Awesomeness rallied late. Starznheaven got a nose advantage at the line, with Bettor's Edge finishing second and Hug The Wind N third.
Starznheaven returned $47.80, and now has 24 wins in 113 lifetime starts for owners Burke Racing, Weaver Bruscemi, Emond and Karr.
WEEKEND WARRIORS: Gingras won eight races over the two weekend racing programs, teaming up to win six of those with Burke.
A LITTLE MORE: For the second straight night, the 20-Cent Survivor Pick 10 sported a total pool of over $20,000 and a payoff of over $17,000.
The Pick 4 saw $85,779 in wagers and a payoff of $1,351.30.
The Late 20-Cent Jackpot Super High Five failed to result in a single-ticket winner, bloating the carryover to $92,461.
All-source wagering was $2,757,068.
Racing resumes at the Big M Friday, Feb. 9 at 6:35 p.m.
(With files from the Meadowlands)