Chalk players reigned supreme at Pompano Park on Wednesday night (March 7), as nine of the 10 races were won by favourites or co-favourites – one of those being A TC Queenie in the $12,500 Open Handicap Trot for the mares.
A TC Queenie, the sharp five-year-old daughter of Triumphant Caviar, was a popular winner despite having been assigned the outside post in her classy million dollar septet.
Trained and driven by Rick Schaut, who co-owns with his sister, Trish Soulsby, A TC Queenie went grinding to the front and took command at the opening station in a swift :28. From there, she carved panels of :56.4 and 1:25.3 before holding off the late-surging Vicki All, with J.D. Yoder in her bike, by three parts of a length. Second Sister finished third, a length away for Jim Meittinis, while Shes All In, who enjoyed a garden journey throughout, was fourth, two lengths away. Explosive Jet finished fifth.
In a post-race interview, driver Rick Schaut said, "You know, I'm just so proud of this filly (mare). She has just a great attitude, love to compete, and gives her all every start. To be blessed with her at my age is just unbelievable. And to have my sister as a partner, it's just very special.
"We bought her as a baby and she's one of our family. I couldn't be more proud. Like I said, this is a blessing and we are so appreciative to have her. My sister was holding her 'Queenie' pillow the whole time!"
Now sporting three wins in her six 2018 starts, A TC Queenie has banked $19,010 this year and $291,776 lifetime to go along with her 1:53 mark set at Scioto Downs last season.
As the 8-5 tote board favourite, A TC Queenie paid $5.20 to win.
Pompano racing will continue on Saturday night with a Super Hi-5 Jackpot of $13,644.68 awaiting.
Also, post positions have been drawn for Sunday's $30,000 final of the Fred Monteleone Memorial, which will be contested at the added distance of one and a quarter miles.
Leg winners Rockys Z Tam (Post 1), Panocchio (3), Hollywood Sign A (5) and Dees Rocketman (8), will be vying for the crown against Drachan Hanover (2), Uncmprmising Z Tam (4), Doo Wop Hanover (6) and Sing For Me George (7).
Post time for the Saturday and Sunday programs will be 7:20 p.m.
(With files from Pompano Park)