The usual tactics by Wonderful World paid off once again, as she went gate-to-wire in posting a three-quarter-length victory over Xenias Chip in Buffalo Raceway's featured $9,600 Fillies and Mares Class A-B Optional Claiming Handicap Pace on Wednesday night (April 14).
She toured the half-mile oval in 1:56.4.
The win was bittersweet, however, as Wonderful World ($4.60) was claimed away from owner-trainer Sabrina Shaw by Michael Gentner for $21,000.
Using her early gate speed, Wonderful World cruised immediately to the top and registered splits of :29, :57.2 and 1:26.3 in her typical front-pacing style. Turning for home, Wonderful World (Billy Davis Jr.) had little to worry about in crossing the wire. Xenias Chip made a mild bid extremely late and had to settle for second place, while Greenhilldebatable (Shawn McDonough) captured third.
It was the second victory in five starts this season for the seven-year-old mare Wonderful World (If I Can Dream-Smilefortheofficer). The win upped her seasonal earnings to $13,612 and $178,533 lifetime.
McDonough drove and trained three winners on the card, while Davis had a trio of driving victories.
Racing will continue on Saturday evening (April 17) at 6 p.m. with an 11-race program scheduled.
For more information, including the latest news, race replays, results and entries, go to www.buffaloraceway.com.
(Buffalo Raceway)