Longshot Lanjo Lee went from last to first to capture the $21,429 Open Pace at Saratoga Casino Hotel on Sunday, March 30.
Trained by Jeff Sorenson, Lanjo Lee is no stranger to Open-level success at Saratoga, but the six-year-old So Surreal gelding was overlooked at 11-1 odds in his latest start. Jacob Cutting settled Lanjo Lee at the back of the eight-horse field, still sitting eighth at the half. As the field approached three-quarters in 1:24.1, he began to gain momentum, picking off rivals one by one.
Despite having four horses to pass in the stretch, Lanjo Lee surged late, nailing the 3-5 race favourite The Good Doctor (Brett Beckwith) at the wire in 1:54 for the upset victory. ER Griffin (Chris Long) earned the show spot.
Lanjo Lee, owned by Gordon Swift, returned $24.60 for the win.
Live racing continues at Saratoga on Monday, March 31, with a 12 p.m. post time for the matinee card.
(With files from Saratoga Casino Hotel)