Monroe County opened up daylight on the field Wednesday and had just enough left at the wire to hold on, springing a 14-1 upset in a division of the Mary Wohlmuth Memorial at The Meadows.
Kandian Klub took the other $12,500 opening-leg split of the series, for three- and four-year-old filly and mare trotters, which honours the memory of the late Mary Wohlmuth, longtime manager and hostess of the 2:00 Club at The Meadows.
Monroe County charged to the front from post seven for trainer-driver Wil Yoder and had little trouble handling the “good” surface. Meanwhile, Mistress Valentine, the 3-2 favourite, was lingering at the back of the pack following an early break. She rallied late, but fell half a length short as Monroe County prevailed in a career-best 1:58.2. Glidetowin was a distant third.
John D. McMullen Jr. and Michelle McMullen own Monroe County, a three-year-old daughter of Glidemaster-Ladyvic, who has won four of eight lifetime starts.
In the $18,000 Winners Over $10,000 Life/Preferred Handicap Pace, Moveoutofmyway captured his second straight race with his new-found “Silky Sullivan” style, coming from last at the half to score in a career-best 1:51.4. JJ Gladiator was second, three-quarters of a length back, with Martys Charm third.
Dave Palone piloted the four-year-old Dontgetitmyway-Peachy Yankee gelding for trainer Ron Burke and owners Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi LLC and Frank Baldachino. It was one of three wins on the 12-race card for Palone.
(The Meadows)