Itz Cherry Ripe N used a :27.4 final panel to hold off hard charging Shacked Up to win the $27,500 Mares Open/Handicap Pace on Tuesday at Dover Downs
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Summer-like weather continued in the week’s top distaff event as Jim Morand, teamed with 12-1 Itz Cherry Ripe N, left from the rail and never was in jeopardy until a powerful final quarter when Tony Morgan and Shacked Up, after enjoying a two-hole trip following the leader, stormed to the outside and came on to within a long nose at the wire in a 1:51.2 mile. Mystra and Brad Hanners streaked down the lane to finish third.
Jeff Clark owns and trains the Courage Under Fire-Itzqueenofnewyork eight-year-old who has won three times this year with three thirds in seven outings. She has won $41,625 in 2012 and $432,907 to date.
Both Jim Morand and Ron Pierce made three trips to the winner’s circle during Tuesday’s card.
(Dover Downs)