Abbey D stepped up in class and beat the boys in the $44,444 Open II Trot on Wednesday, April 8 at Miami Valley Raceway for her third consecutive victory.
Abbey D left hard from post five for Luke Hanners, cleared to the front, and opened up by 2-1/2 lengths over a strung-out field on the first turn. After a :26.4 opening panel, Hanners tapped the brakes, and the field bunched up with 7-5 favourite and seasonally undefeated Battle Hill (David Miller) in the pocket. From far back, Robert Michael (Trevor Smith) moved first-up and advanced to the half in :55.4.
Hanners hit the gas on the way to three-quarters, quickening the pace to reach that station in 1:24 with Robert Michael still 2-1/4 lengths back on the outside. As they exited the final turn, Abbey D led by 1-1/2 lengths with Battle Hill pinned in second and Robert Michael to his outside. Battle Hill finally got an opening in mid-stretch but couldn't make up any ground as Abbey D came home to win by 1-3/4 lengths in 1:52.4. Battle Hill held second while Global Sensation (Sam Widger) shook loose late for third.
Abbey D took her fourth win of the year in 13 starts and a new season's mark. The victory gave her an even 30 for her career from 130 appearances. Deborah Swartz trains the seven-year-old Uncle Peter-B Vs Sister mare for Bradley Delaney. The win price was $5.20.
David Miller led all drivers with a grand slam on the 14-race Tuesday card, while Kayne Kauffman had a triple. Trainer Scot Davidson recorded a double.
Racing action at Miami Valley closes out for the week on Thursday with a post time of 4 p.m.
(With files from Miami Valley)